I have had marlins and 10/22's. Can't say I have had any real nice bolts. For what you describe, I highly suggest looking at them. For 150 dollars, you have a 10/22 that can shoot easily 2" groups at 50 yards when you start looking thru ammo that it likes.

And heres the fun part. You have catalogs upon catalogs to upgrade them., modify them, or just about anything you want. I have seen people get 10/22's shooting compitition groups for only 300 dollars. I upgraded one of mine with a trigger with a titanium one and 2.5lbs. pull, and added the heavy barrel combo. I love it. I can't see any difference in this with any of the high dollar bolts I have shot against.

As far as it being a toy. They are correct 100%. Just as all 22LRs are. Even the 1000 dollar comp models. If you want something other than a fun toy, you got to get a centerfire cartridge.