RE: hard decision own a .223
DH2006,
I have a bull barreled Smith &Wesson Model 1500 in .223.
It my understanding that these rifles were made for S&W by Howa .
I've been using Winchester .55 gr ball ammowhich has yielded groups of 1/4 " at 100 ydsand in some cases tighter depending on the conditions.
Howa's are good shooters IMO.