Thread: .223 Options....

Tell him to harden up and not be such a pussy, that ain't a heavy rifle.
Quality wise, I don't think there's much difference between the two, maybe marginally Howa. It's one off those Ford/Holden....Hilux/Ranger personal preferences.
Accuracy wise Ruger would be at least as good. Ruger are light due to their shitty plastic stock.

Maybe a mini action Howa is what he needs?