Re: 223 rem bolt gun recommendations
I have an sps tactical in .223, it tends to like the heavier bullets, especially the 69 grain MK or custom competition. Many people have found that they shoot the 77 grain bullets extremely well.
Mine also likes the 55 grain Hornady softpoint load, it does not particularly care for the 45 grain winchester white box load (I have seen it shoot extremely well out of my dad's 10fp).
I have never checked, but I suspect the twist is a little faster than 1-9".
Have you considered the Savage 10PC or the predator hunter max (not the regular predator hunter, but the max)?
If you are going to be out walking around, I really think the lighter weight and the fact that it comes in an excellent stock already would be an attractive option.
If you are going to be shooting whistle pigs out to 400 yards, I think the savage and 68 or 69 grain match loads would be an awesome combo.