I was given a new Vanguard in .270 win and have put more than 200 rounds through it and it just keeps getting better and better. Although I do load my own rounds for it, it has not been picky on what I shoot through it. My Vanguard does have a 60 degree bolt lift and two lugs. I can't compare it to the A-bolt as I have never had one nor shot one. Not as smooth as my Remington 700's or Winchester 70. More than accurate enough to hit game farhter than most people can shoot, and seems to be very reliable and well built.