This is always a fun topic.
I'll try to keep this as short as possible. Do you want a lightweight (more recoil & muzzle jump) or a heavier (recoil absorbing) gun. Do you have long walks in & out where a light weight gun is beneficial? Do you prefer break action or bolt action? Have you considered smokeless?
THE GUN THAT FITS YOU BEST WILL SHOOT THE BEST!!
I have become a recoil weenie & prefer a heavier gun. My 2 main guns are my CVA APEX & my Knight Mountaineer. I recently went to a Slufoot smokeless conversion for my APEX. Velocities are much higher & the cost of powder is MUCH less. Of course it's only gonna benefit you if you can legally use it where you hunt.
Break actions are typically much easier to clean than bolt styles. It's just the nature of the beast. I love my Knight but there are more nooks & crannies that are harder to reach & clean. It's not a major difference, just a difference.
Every manufacturer has problems & most relate to customer service. If you have an issue with a brand, post the question on the board asking who should I contact & someone will have the est info for you. With that said, I now stay away from TC. Since S&W bought them, they have shortened their line of guns & their customer service is typically very very bad.
My Knight had to go back twice for the same problem. If you're shooting BH209 in a break action CVA you either need the BH breech plug or need to modify your factory plug.
Lastly, is price. The CVA Optima V2 is an excellent rifle at just over 200, The Accura V2 is the next step up. Then you have the Accura MR & the APEX. The last 2 shoulder & fit the same. The MR is lighter & the APEX has interchangeable barrels & can go smokeless with the proper conversion.
Yes, I love my CVA's & think they are the best bang for the buck, but again, THE GUN THAT FITS YOU THE BEST WILL SHOOT THE BEST.
I would suggest you go to a shop & find what you like & the call Carlos at Ed's Gun Shop 910-692-7936. He will have the best price, be the most helpful, & set the gun up the way you want if you prefer.....including sighting it in. Good luck - Greg