I have a Howa 1500 with a 20" barrel. Currently I have a swfa 10x42 on it. I really like mine. Shoots Federal 150 grain SP pretty well if you are looking for something good but cheap. It did very well with 175 grain SMK Gold Medals and same bullet but with Buffalo Bore brand ammo.
I lean toward Savage as far as value goes. I love the Hog hunter! I don't have one yet, but its on my "if I see one used at a gunshow at a reasonable price, its coming home" list. I'd like a non-milsurp with irons.