SmallCaliberCentral

Yes I think that is a great deal for a new rifle in 204. I don't think you will be disappointed let us know how it goes.

I have a custom built M700 with a #7 pattern Lilja on it. Shoots really well.

Then for the fun of it I purchased a M700 VSSF in .204. Fine rifle, but walk around weight barrel heats really fast with medium hot hand loads.

Now I see the VSSF II has come out with a heavier barrel, at least it appears so in ads. I recommend a heavier even fluted barrel where available because of the heat dissipation issue.

Others may differ.

another question does any one no how well the savage Model 11FXP3 shoots.

I just got a Savage 11 and zeroed it in with the same load my 12's like-24.8 R10x with 39 grain bk's. Four groups of five in the .5 and .6's. In this area we can buy the package with a Simmons scope for under $500.Put the Simmons on a .22, sell it for $40, or use it untill you can upgrade. It's a bargain.

i have the howa 1500 with hogue stock and a bull barrel, 204 ruger. just finished working up some loads with 32gr vmax, rp brass and wsr primers. i went with benchmark powder at 27.2grs. with this load i had groups .625 and smaller. i did put a timney trigger in it, adjusted to 2lbs pull. the rifle comes with an adjustable trigger, and is ok. i just like a lighter pull then i can get with the original trigger. also own a weatherby vangard in .223, that shoots purty darn good. has the standard barrel. both are basically the same rifle, and very reasonably priced. i would not hesitate buying another one, especially at 415.00.
i don't use any rifle for punching paper. these 2 will be used for shooting the belding squirrels in my area. i already know the .223 is really accurate out to about 300+ yards, i bought the .204 for shooting out to 500 yards and more!