I had a CZ 452 Varmint and finally found the right combination to make it shoot well. The biggest problem with that model is that I hated the pistol grip angle. It was also too barrel heavy for informal offhand shooting. The trigger shape was a bit too straight. The American is somewhat better, but the trigger and pistol grip still aren't just right for me.
Also had a Marlin 39A and it was quite accurate for using receiver sights, but not well balanced with a scope. The rifle model is quite heavy to lug around, but the Mountie was pretty nice with the receiver sight. Mine took lots of red squirrels at camp. The triggers aren't too bad and can be smoothed, but it's still an external hammer rifle and it has a pretty slow lock time compared with a modern bolt gun.
I really like my 10-22, but it doesn't feel like my centerfires. The Rem 504 is really great that way. If you like the feel of Rem. 700 hunting rifles and shoot a 504 offhand, all other 22s will come up a bit short.
However if the 700 doesn't fit you well, or you don't like the wooden-stocked, cut-checkered versions made about 20-30 years ago, then don't bother with the 504.
Ya pays ya money and takes ya choice. That's why there are so many different brands/types of guns, cars, breakfast cereal, and even bottled water of all things.
John
