After seeing the other thread looking for a hunting rifle I need info. I am looking for a rifle for my dad. He is looking in the $500 and under price "mainly"! He would like a 243, or 25-06 as first choices. I have not shot any of these so I am looking for any info on these. Here are the rifles I am interested in after looking at rifles for 2 days.

Weatherby Vanguard, my favorite so far.
Howa 1500 with Hogue stock, second favorite.
Savage edge, looks pretty cheap?
Marlin, the $300 ones?
Mossberg $300 Mava or? The only place I seen them was Rocky mountain shooters supply.
Stevens, hard to find couldnt find any in calibers I wanted. I have had one of these and they were a good solid cheap rifle.

Nikon coyote special
Nikon with normal BDC reticle
Bushnell Elite 3200 10X40

Those scopes are in the $175-$200 range and have performed well for friends of mine, I have never had either. Thoughts? Any other good ones in that range?