I have a Vanguard in 270 win and a Venture in 30-06. I consider them pretty equal BUT my Vanguard was bought 2 years ago and the Venture was bought 13 months ago (pre S&W takeover).
I would tell you to handle both rifles and choose the one that fits you the best.
Happy Shopping

P.S. Either Bass Pro or Cabela's is running a Black Friday special on these rifles saving you about $50. Now that I think about it, one of the companies has a special on 1 of the rifles and the other company has a special on the other. Sorry, but all those sale fliers run together after a while.