I have a 7 mag and love it, not much on ruger rifles though. I hate the 3 position safety and not much on the look of their rifles either. As far as the Howa i have heard good things about their actions, some say they are highly overlooked. The ruger is a good deal and the 7 mag is amazing. If money is a concern go with the ruger. I have seen alot of deer knocked off their feet with .270's at long range too. So really i couldnt decide either.