If you are still looking, I would give Savage Arms a good look. I have heard many good things about accurracy out of the box.

I have owned mostly Remington guns. No complaints, except one. I think it was a 552 speedmaster 22, could be wrong.

Waiting on a Savage Arms gun I ordered, little thing. .22 smooth bore single shot. Sparrows that have been "painting my equipment" beware. Judgement day is coming!

Cost less than most pellet guns. Wood stock. Guess I will find out soon. http://www.savagearms.com/markigsb.htm

CCI shotshell .22 birdshot. Sportsman guide has them on sale for$ 3.3/ 20. Most places sell them for4-5.5$/20