Considering a GL and looking for advice, please?

I have been reading that enough folks seem to like these Savages.

I am a lefty and am looking at the left hand GL versions in 22LR, Mag, and 17 HRM. I was looking at a CZ or Browning T bolt but I'm thinking that if I can get the same accuracy why not save some money. I'm planning to use a 2.5X Leopold Ultrlite scope I have on the shelf. My goal is a tack driver plinker and gopher gun for 100 yards max, more likely 75.

How do these economy G series guns shoot? Are they decent quality?

How do the skinny barrel 22s shoot? Is the bull 17 barrel a noticeable uprade worth the extra ammo cost?

I know this gets kicked around a lot but I'm having trouble deciding on caliber. I own a 10-22 and Favorite 30 TD in 22LR. So I'm considering one of the magnums for the first time. Opinions?