Savage Action

[Mark W]

I’ve built a couple Savage rifles off Cabelas 12FV by changing stocks and adding a prefit barrel. Northland Shooters Supply is the DIY Savage builder.

I just completed a build using a Precision Target Action with a shouldered Bartlein barrel dropped into an HS Precision stock. The action was pretty out of square, so I had it trued up. I also had @Grimstod do his magic by adding his bolt lift kit, bushing the firing pin, and squaring up the bolt head. I definitely recommend his bolt service. I never knew that a Savage bolt could run so smooth.

All said and done, I’m happy with all of my Savage builds. The 12FV and prefit builds are very economical and fun to build.

I really like the PTA build as well, but I wouldn’t do that one again. For the dollars spent I could have added a few bucks and went with a low end custom action.

 

[Bill K]

For me, if it's going to be a semi custom build, I'll go Rem 700 every time. I'm sure the Savage actions are a good piece, but to my eyes, they are just fugly. Though I'm no particular fan, I could live with the barrel nut, but those Savage actions are just so chunky and odd looking. Kinda reminds me of the saying about what a fat girl and a moped have in common, they're both fun to ride but you just don't want any of your friends seeing you do it.

Been playing with these things for over 65 years now and have both Rem 700 and Savage actions, set up with various small calibers mostly, but also some large.
Both have served me well and I like both. Even added a couple of Howa 1500's to the fold.
But then again it is all in what you personally enjoy and want.
Just my thought.

 

[Texas10]

If you're interested in getting into a "build a gun" hobby, the Savage 10,11,12 actions are quite easy, accurate and plentiful. I have 4 that started out life as a 12FV on sale at Cabelas, and paid less than $250 out the door. Sold the barrels and triggers, bought used Target Accutriggers, fabricated or purchased bolt lift kits, long bolt handles, and quality aftermarket barrels, a variety of stocks.

They are quite accurate, easy to build, and I am able to frequently change calibers/chamberings. Takes about 30 minutes to swap out a barrel and trigger assy. using Northland Shooters Supply tooling.

Best of all, I've accrued a lot of knowledge in the process, which I find to be the most satisfying part.

You can find all the parts you need in the classifieds, action, triggers, barrels, stocks, rings, etc. And if you're patient, at quite a discount over new.

 

[Damon555]

Dogbuster I see all your rigs have that style stock does it work better than others you have tested or??

Those look like Choate stocks. I use them also. With a little fitting and paint (if you like) I don't think you can find another stock with an aluminum bedding block in the price range that has as many features. They aren't for everyone and they are heavy.....an attribute that I like in my varmint rifles. I've owned 3.....sold one....now I've got an Ultimate Sniper and an Ultimate Varmint......Great stocks for shooting off a bench and only $200......not many budget options out there that can compare to the Choates...

 

[DirtySteve]

I like Savages. However I decided from now on I will just buy Remington Actions. You can buy them for a round $340-350. So why even mess with Savages any more. You can have Remage barrels spun up for them. Seems like the best way to go other than a Big Horn action..

 

[K22]

My rifle smith who has been building rifles for over 30 years swears by Howa Actions.

 

[DogBuster]

yes......those are the Choate Varminter.......full bedding block......

heavy & clunky to some......but work well on dog guns & portable table....

Have two used Savage SA soon in the ads.....4.27"

just haven't taken pics & listed yet

 

[284winner]

yes......those are the Choate Varminter.......full bedding block......

heavy & clunky to some......but work well on dog guns & portable table....

Have two used Savage SA soon in the ads.....4.27"

just haven't taken pics & listed yet

Any for sale in 4.40". I have a 4.27 and love it. It's a varmint stock. Not crazy about the sniper stocks. Forearm contour isn't as user friendly as the varmint model.

 

[DogBuster]

Any for sale in 4.40". I have a 4.27 and love it. It's a varmint stock. Not crazy about the sniper stocks. Forearm contour isn't as user friendly as the varmint model.

sorry......both 4.27"

agreed....never liked the sniper style Choate

 

[searcher]

You didn't mention a budget so I will steer you in another direction. Look at a BAT or other custom action if you really want an action that needs absolutely NO tweaking of any kind and can readily accept a quicker barrel change than messing with the headspace on the Savage. That way, you can have the barrels made to just screw on and even change calibers in 5 minutes (for most cartridges with the same bolt face). Also of great importance to many - is the ability to hang a "real" trigger like a Jewell. Go on BAT website to view models - Bruno's Shooters Supply carries them. I haven't bought one in several years but it would run probably up to 1k more - roughly. The more expensive route but one you would not likely regret, budget allowing.