Savage 12 Palma for F T/R?

[Ed333]

Any reason why a savage model 12 Palma rifle would not do well for shooting F T/R class? For a newbie...

 

[Laurie]

No great reason why not. There are differences though to be aware of. The stock bolt-ons make it a bit heavier than that of the F/TR model which may be an issue if you want to rebarrel with something much heavier and run a heavy scope and bi-pod. The screw spacing is unique, so you can't easily restock the rifle with aftermarket pre-inletted Savage 12 PTA stocks. The biggest difference specification-wise is the barrel which has a lighter profile than that on the F/TR and a 1-13" twist compared to 1-12". That slower twist rate limits your bullet choice - even some of the longer more streamlined 155gn thirties such as the Berger Hybrid now have 1-12" recommended. The 155gn Lapua Scenar, both Sierra MKs, Berger VLD and 155.5gn LRBT all work very well in 1-13", likewise the 'tradional' 168s like the SMK, Hornady HPBT Match, Nosler CC etc.

 

[Ed333]

Thanks, sounds like reason enough not to go there. It's that old case of "When is a good deal not a good deal." The used price on the Palma I had in mind is still more than the new price on a Savage F/TR....