I have a Ruger M77 standard (22" barrel) .223 and my brother has the same gun both will shoot under 1" at 100 yards. I shot a number of crows this winter ranging from 140 yards to 185 yards. As for the trigger $75 from Cabelas will get you an awesome Timney trigger which is not hard to install or you can do a trigger job your self. I printed the directions off of the internet and did my 300 WSM and a number of friends rifles. As for Ruger accuracy in general in my experience with my rifles and my familiy and friends rifles they are very accurate. I personally would go with the ultra light before the compact. I like the .223 ammo is cheap and has no recoil. It would also have no problem killing varmints out to 300 yards and further if you are capable.