RE: best .22 for the money
You didn't specify if you wanted an inexpensive gun or a good quality one.
If you want inexpensive get a Marlin or Savage. If you want to spend a little more then get a Ruger 77/22. If you want top of the line Cooper or Kimber. I have a Browning A-Bolt .22 and love it. Too bad they don't offer it anymore.