For those who do not know, the Howa M1500 and the Weatherby Vanguard 2 are essentially the same rifle. Both can be modified with a new trigger guard to accept 5 and 10 round magazines. My link above shows a M1500 with excellent glass for under $600.
“For those who do not know, the Howa M1500 and the Weatherby Vanguard 2 are essentially the same rifle.”
There are some differences. For one, I like the Weatherby stock and cheek rest much better. Have a look:
http://www.weatherby.com/product/rifles/vanguard_2/series_2_synthetic