Thanks for the info so far. I own a couple marlins in .22lr.. plus I have friends with the Marlins.. just not too happy about the sloppy action. I will be doing some work to the rifle, whatever one I buy. I'll most likely put a better trigger on it (I'm used to shooting a 6 ounce, 2 stage anschutz trigger) -granted that's not the trigger I'd go hunting with.. more along the lines of 2.5 Lbs and 2 stage. If I'm really happy with the accuracy but not the stock I'll replace that. Mostly I'm looking for a gun with good accuracy (between 100-150 yrds) and is heavy. I prefer heavier guns. Just like the solid feel, plus it removes alot of the minor shakes and pulses from the movement. The Ruger is 7.75 Lbs according to the Ruger website.