[incarcerated]

Ruger’s 77-22 is available with a heavy factory barrel, and is the pick of the litter. My CZ is low-end, but does quite well, close to the Ruger’s performance. The Savage heavy barrel with Accutrigger is reasonably priced (half of the cost of a 77-22) and comes w/ good report, but I have not shot one. Because of its price, it is what I’m recommending to my grown sons as a first rimfire rifle. Anschutz are thoroughbreds and prefer the better ammo (RWS R-50 running around $13/box, or Eley Tenex at $16+ per box. Yes, that’s BOX, not BRICK.) The Ruger is not so particular, and will shoot rocks. Any standard velocity ammo does very well in it. This is not the case with the Anschutz. You can sometimes find an OLDER Anschutz, say a 64 action, at a reasonable price, but those seem to come along when you’re not in need of them and aren’t actively shopping for one. Estate sales are a good thing.
I do not have any experience with the Marlin, and am not up to date on the price of old Winchester 52Bs.
How serious are you about this game (meaning, how much money are you willing to spend)? If you have some latitude there, consider a used 40X.
Are you looking for a target rifle, or a biathalon gun? You may find that the only thing you’re really going to be happy with on a biathalon course is an instrument made for that event.