I really dig the Howa mini, and if you are on a tight budget, I get it, but to compare the mini to a CZ 527 is comparing a ruger american to a m77 hawkeye. The CZ is on a whole different level of quality control. factory accuracy, beautiful walnut stocks completely free floated from the factory, crisp SET triggers under 1.5 pounds out of the box, integral ring bases... they really are one of the best factory rifles you can get for under 1k. Most CZ 527 go for a street price around 5-650, about the same as a quality r700, m70, m77, m10 exc.. and currently I would even rate a 527 over all before mentioned rifles due to sheer quality. Just get your hands on one and run the bolt a few times, you will know what i mean.
Again, I dig the mini, but go ahead and put a chassis on it, get the trigger worked, and try like hell to match the accuracy of a CZ barrel.. Once upon a time I used to enjoy polishing turds to maximize potential (not that the mini is a turd) but eventually I learned you just can't beat quality.. and the CZ rifles/pistols absolutly ooze quality.
Again, I dig the mini, but go ahead and put a chassis on it, get the trigger worked, and try like hell to match the accuracy of a CZ barrel.. Once upon a time I used to enjoy polishing turds to maximize potential (not that the mini is a turd) but eventually I learned you just can't beat quality.. and the CZ rifles/pistols absolutly ooze quality.