Really, if you want a factory guarantee I think FN or TC Warlord are about it. Both of which make really good rifles. The new FN's are made in south carolina at a state of the art facility. MOA guarantee, and I *THINK* there is one model, if you dig enough, that has 1/2 MOA, but do not quote me on the latter. I can not seem to find that model right at the moment. The 1 moa guarantee is easy enough to find. They have pretty good triggers for the most part too.
If you have had bad luck with Savage, then I certainly do not blame you for shying away. What I like about my Savage is that I have the barrel nut wrench, headspace go-no-go, and action blocks for the vise. I can purchase a Shilen ready to go barrel, or Lothar, or a few other solid name choices, and I can rebarrel myself. Not trying to sell you on it, this is what drew me to Savage. Then again, Savage is like most any other biggish company, they have the occasional "Off Day".
As for Howa, I would order the Stainless variety. If you ever decide to ship one to a GS, I have seen several GS report that the stainless variety are way better to remove the barrel from. It would seem that the blued variety are a "stone bitch" to get the barrel off of.
Good Shooting,
Gary
P.S. Here is a link to read up on what some fairly serious minded people are saying about Howa:
Howa actions?? - Sniper's Hide Forums
Look up for what Pete Lincoln has to say. There are a few other posts in there by other GS or Hobby GS that essentially say the same. Some good info. Nothing OEM is ever going to be perfect
Just have to read until you pull your hair out, then hit the go key and hope.