I have owned 2 Weatherby Vanguard Series 2 rifles, one in 270 the other in 243. Both were excellent rifles. No issues of any sort and excellent sporter accuracy and fantastic triggers. Because they use 24" sporter weight barrels, you need to take your time when shooting for groups. But when you do, you get great accuracy. The 243 in particular was amazing, I think my best was a 3/8" 5-shot group at 100 yd (85 gr Sierras on IMR4064). I do regret selling that one.
The Howas are basically the same with different stocks and I think most 1500's have 22" barrels.
I don't think you can go wrong with either.