down here in australia, the vanguards go head to head with thesynthetic Tikka T3's. if they are price compatible with the vanguards in the states, i would opt for the tikka. in fact, i would (and did!) pay extra for the tikka. both are excellent value, but the outright performance of my T3 is sensational. you are basically getting a Sako designed and manufactured barrelled-action in a tough as nails no-frills stock. the machining quality is 1st class, and the action is silky smooth. the barrel is free floated ( a definite advantage over the vanguard). the narrow ejection port and single column magazine result in an ultra stiff action, which aids accuracy no end. the trigger is like glass breaking.

the new Rem SPS looks like good value too. but from what i have seen, the machining is not as impressive- particularly where the receiver is broached to accomodate the locking lugs. it would be interesting to see whether both lugs are equally load bearing. rems have a reputation for being excellent once accurized (bench rest guys love them), but should you have to go to this trouble?

the stevens is just appearing down here, and seems to be dirt cheap, with good fundamentals - but i couldn't give an informed opinion on them.

bottom line- buy a Tikka