I recently purchased a Weatherby Vanguard in .300 Weatherby Magnum and "made in Japan" is clearly stamped on it so I think Howa is still manufacturing the barrel and action. I believe the synthetic stock is built by a company called Butler Creek which is located either in the U.S. and Canada which makes the Vanguard typical of the global economy. I bought mine at a sporting goods store. Wall Mart does not sell firearms in California, it may be that they do not want to deal with the 10 day waiting period. Anyway, I love my Vanguard and have consigned my Remington 700 BDL to a permenant spot in the back of my gun safe.

Californiadoctor