CF, it looks like you have done your homework! this is just my opinion, I know some of you are not going to share the same opinion, first off let me say I'm a fan of the 223/5.56 in the right plat form, I know people use this cartridge to shoot long range on varmints, it's cheaper to shoot and reload than a lot of other cartridges out there, but for me I don't prefer this cartridge in a bolt gun, I have several AR's that I've built in the 223 Wylde chamber, and that's where this cartridge shines IMO, my M12 223rem in its factory forum is a good and accurate shooter, but I'm not happy with the 223rem in this rifle, that's just me, I put about 1400 shots thru this barrel and decided it's time for an upgrade in performance, I have not even shot this rifle in about 10yrs or longer, just sits in my safe, so changes are on the way! JMO for me so please understand my thinking, if you gonna shoot long range use a suitable Cartiedge!