Re: 22lr with heavy barrel
I think the .22 is a special case. For a large part, I believe the accuracy is inherent in the chambering, and less so in the gun than might be the case with centerfires.
Less expensive and more basic exacts less of a toll on the .22's accuracy than with the bigger guns. So, as long as the firearm is functioning properly, it's got the accuracy the training task needs. More accuracy would be more appropriate to competition, but the basic accuracy is fine as long as it's consistent. We are looking for 'better' or 'worse', not 'excellent' or 'otherwise'. For 'excellent', that's where the premium firearm has a real place.
Training is about repetition, assessment, and improvement; and the round count is significant to the goal. So yes, the big slice of the pie should be getting spent on ammo. Again, find something the rifle likes, good, but not exorbitant.
When you begin your ammo testing, start at the cheap end of the selections. The rifle makes the choice, not the cash register. When you find something that produces significantly less ammo-related flyers, you've met your goal. FGMM is for comp. the CCI blue box is for training, where my rifles are concerned.
Hopefully, you will find something both inexpensive and reliably above average too.
Greg