thomis
Member
Three years ago I began researching for a good all-around deer rifle, mid to long range, wood-stock, USA made, and one that could hold it's own at the range, at least from the 100 yard mark.
I chose .308 Winchester for the caliber and the Savage Model 14 Classic. That rifle didn't work out for me. It had fits of sporadic grouping and I never could get the bbl clean and shiny.
So I went after and recently purchased a Winchester Model 70 Featherweight, one of the new ones made in SC. When I opened the box I immediately realized the quality of the Winchester was on a different level than the Savage. The fit, feel and finish was far superior. The bolt is unbelievably smooth as silk. I don't want to completely bash Savage b/c their service is fantastic and I love my Savage .22 rifle. But I really wish I had gotten the Model 70 over the Model 14 for my deer rifle. Here are some pics.
recessed crown is a good idea
I followed the barrel break-in instructions on this page (by the way, thanks Fullboar1). I only have 12 shots through it and no scope mounted yet (waiting on the scope ring lapping rod kit) so I can't comment on accuracy yet. But I'll be working on it. In the meantime I am working up a multitude of handloads in 125, 150, 165 and 168 grains.
I have one very minor complaint/ observation:
When the safety is in the far rear position (trigger won't function/ bolt won't open), there is a fair amount of "play" with the bolt. Seems to me the bolt should be locked solid, and should not move but it's not the case.
see the first pic
second pic, I've moved the bolt upwards about half an inch
I did chrony some factory ammo, if you're interested:
(remember, 22" bbl)
Winchester Super X Powerpoint 150 grain, 8 shots:
2814
2878
2808
2798
2871
2824
2854
2805
Remington Express Core Lokt 150 grain, 2 shots:
2662
2698
cheers,
thomis
I chose .308 Winchester for the caliber and the Savage Model 14 Classic. That rifle didn't work out for me. It had fits of sporadic grouping and I never could get the bbl clean and shiny.
So I went after and recently purchased a Winchester Model 70 Featherweight, one of the new ones made in SC. When I opened the box I immediately realized the quality of the Winchester was on a different level than the Savage. The fit, feel and finish was far superior. The bolt is unbelievably smooth as silk. I don't want to completely bash Savage b/c their service is fantastic and I love my Savage .22 rifle. But I really wish I had gotten the Model 70 over the Model 14 for my deer rifle. Here are some pics.
recessed crown is a good idea
I followed the barrel break-in instructions on this page (by the way, thanks Fullboar1). I only have 12 shots through it and no scope mounted yet (waiting on the scope ring lapping rod kit) so I can't comment on accuracy yet. But I'll be working on it. In the meantime I am working up a multitude of handloads in 125, 150, 165 and 168 grains.
I have one very minor complaint/ observation:
When the safety is in the far rear position (trigger won't function/ bolt won't open), there is a fair amount of "play" with the bolt. Seems to me the bolt should be locked solid, and should not move but it's not the case.
see the first pic
second pic, I've moved the bolt upwards about half an inch
I did chrony some factory ammo, if you're interested:
(remember, 22" bbl)
Winchester Super X Powerpoint 150 grain, 8 shots:
2814
2878
2808
2798
2871
2824
2854
2805
Remington Express Core Lokt 150 grain, 2 shots:
2662
2698
cheers,
thomis