22 LR I have at least one of all of the other parts LOL... I may as well put one together. I don't need anything high end for target; this would be a plinking gun.
SW Indiana would be preferred.
I love both equally... kind of like kids! but it depends on what you are looking to use it for. If you are punching holes in paper, either is great. If you are looking to swap parts out all the time, go with an AR. Smaller varmits, I think AR has better longer range accuracy, so would be a...
I really don't think you can go wrong with either the Savage or Rem. I honestly believe that you are to the point of personal preference. What about a father son shopping trip to pick it out? Firearms are family heirlooms in my family and what better memory than your son buying you a rifle...
I have the CZ 452 with the 16" threaded barrel (with appropriate adapter obviously) and I would be hard pressed to shoot more accurately with any gun. It is amazing. CZ puts a great machine together, not to mention they look great.