I asked , much the same question a few weeks ago. In fact, I have been searching for a quality bolt .22 for about the same price range you posted ($300) for the last few months.What I settled on was a CZ 452 LUX . It's has a longer barrel, (25" I think) than the Varmint or American models. It also has a European type stock - a sloped "hump back" buttstock and Schnabel tip. I did not like the looks of it at first, but it really has grown on me. It has a very elegant nature to it. This rifle is superbly balanced. The rear sight is a tangent, adjustable from 25-200 meters.The front, is a hooded post. It has an excellent adjustable trigger. I have not played with it yet, but it cannot be to far off from 2lbs, with no creep to speak of. The scope base is, I believe , 11mm , so you will probably wont find rings at your local Wally World.But, they will not be hard to find. If you plan on scoping your rifle, this model might not allow room for a large bell diameter. While, the rear sight leaf can be easily removed ,the sight base cannot.The scope may or may not clear the base. A set of high or extra-high rings might get you there though. As for me, I do not expect to use a scope. I plan on using this rifle as a small game/field gun.
I have done a lot of research on this particular rifle, and have yet to read anything bad about them.People tell me they seem to shoot as well or better than rifles that cost twice as much. I hope so. I have not shot mine yet. Maybe this weekend.
Go the this link and check them out.
[url]www.cz-usa.com[/url]
The CZ 452 line all have the same mauser-type action. The American and varmint models, I have heard, have floated barrels.The choice is yours. I almost forgot, the Marlin 880SQ squirrel rifle is another you might consider.A little less money too.Good luck. Keep us informed about which rifle you decided on.