So...I've had my .223 VTR for a couple of years now, and love it.
Zero issues at all... Now...to be fair, I've never put 200-300 rounds through it in a sitting...maybe 50->75, and I think the barrel is heavy enough that there wasn't much movement due to a heated barrel. As I understand it, the barrel was a bit of an experiment to see if they could reduce manufacturing costs but not performing a traditional rounding.
The one negative I would say...which isn't a game changer or anything is the built in muzzle brake. It makes a nice whoomp when it shoots, but because the brake is integrated...there's no option to run anything else. Again...what it has works just fine for me....it'd just be nice to have the option.
No issues with chambering at all.
Regarding the barrel...I've shot it in the snow, the rain, and hot sunny days with no issues. Every range I've gone to...I've had one or two people come up and ask about the barrel...it's certainly a conversation starter.
I think people that replace the trigger are probably right on the money...I don't really love it, and it's a little heavy and not all that adjustable. It's not a priority for me, but if I have onto it for another few years I'll likely drop the money and throw a Triggertech in there.
My gun loved the Atlanta Arms Premium .223 in 55gr. Lot's of oOmpf, and it shoots nice tight 0.5 to 0.75 MOA at 100 (I've heard both better and worse, but I will note that my rifle loves some ammo, and HATES others (+1.5 to +1.75 MOA at times). I have so far been able to retain that accuracy with the Atlanta Arms ammo out to 200yds just fine (not a lot of 200+ yd ranges down my way I'm afraid).
I have no real complaints about the rifle itself. I get more grief from people about buying a Remington instead of a Tikka *chuckle*.
The gun is forgiving, and shoots straight...which is key
