If you really like the Howa 223, I think I may have a Howa Short action (same as your Heavy barrel) with a ranchland barrel and possibly a laminate black stock if you dont want the Hogue. It is brand new and has the internal mag with the flush plate metal. Blued steel $895 with the Hogue stock, $995 with the laminate. Brand new in the box and has been in shop storage for a while.
These do turn up form time to time 2nd hand. CZ and Zastava also worth looking for. CZ will be dearer but Zastava a bit cheaper?.I prefer the Zastava or the Howa to carry with the flush mag, but the CZ is a very nice rifle to shoot.
There is always a Baikal single shot for $500 (new as well) but you would likely have asked for one if that was what you are after....
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