I have a Howa 1500 chambered in .223 and I'm happy with it. It is made in Japan and is basically a Weatherby Vanguard stamped as a Howa 1500, not much of a difference other than cosmetics. I've never had any problems with mine, but I've only had it for about 4 years and probably have only fired about 300 rounds through it so far. The best groups I can get are 1.5" at 100 for 5 shots, most are right around 2". I'm sure I'm the limiting factor and not the rifle.
I would buy another one.