A Savage Mark II BTVXP. Same rifle as the BTV (and the BTVS minus the stainless finish) just came as a package deal with the scope.
The first rifle I bought when I turned 18 was a Savage Mark II with a field barrel and synthetic stock for $99 at walmart. Long story short, I've since owned 3 more of the same model (one in wood), but none have had the accu-trigger or a heavy barrel. The only other target rifle I owned was a Ruger 10/22 I spent a LOT of money on to shoot little groups.
I was looking around at Gander Mountain and happened to pick up a new version of the synthetic field model with accu-trigger. At the Gander here all the long guns are out for display/inspection, but are tethered to the wall by a corded trigger lock. The trigger lock wasn't installed properly on this one an I managed to get a finger in there to dry fire it (I know). I now needed an accu-trigger.
I checked the weekly circular for Dick's Sporting Goods and they had the wood stocked sporter version in a scope package for $159. By the time I got there, they had sold out of the Mark II's and only had one 93 left on hold. They called the other store across town who were also sold out. Crestfallen, I went home and resigned myself to buy the heavy barreled synthetic stocked model from the other store in the morning.
Got up bright and early and headed out. I got to the store right after it opened and was greeted at the gun counter by an older, very knowledgeable gentlemen that was very proud of the groups he had shot with his Contender pistol (they were impressive if he wasn't pulling my leg. Ragged hole groups from a .308 at 50 yards; standing supported on a post.)
Turns out the synthetic stock Mark II was actually whatever the Mark II is but chambered in .17HMR. Next to it, though, stood the object of my longtime affection. The laminate thumbhole stocked, heavy barrel Mark II, insert choir music and bright white light. Going price: $329. Upon closer inspection, it was wearing a Bushnell Sharpshooter 3-9x scope and being a display model, had been dry fired a few times leaving a light "bite mark" on the chamber face. Nothing that would affect performance.
Well, once I handled it I had to have it and walked out the door with it for $348. Used my rewards card so I'll be getting at least one, if not 2, $10 gift certificates in the mail for a new case or some ammo or something. The best part is that I only paid about $270 for it as the money came from some other things that I was able to sell at a slight profit, including my old Mark II.
This thing is accurate! Got it sighted in and the first group at 25 yards measured .248" center to center. I adjusted the accu-trigger all the way down (2.5lbs says the manual) and it was still kind of heavy, so I clipped a coil or 2 of the spring and it's probably around 1.5-2lbs now and crisp as can be.
My only gripe is the light strikes I'm getting from the guy behind the counter, and probably other customers, dry firing it. Looking at the bolt, the firing pin is peened a little. I called Savage and explained the situation and they're sending me a new firing pin free of charge as soon as they're back in stock.
It's been windy here the past few days, so I haven't done a whole lot of paper shooting. I set my steel targets at around 80 yards this afternoon (4",3", and 2"). I was hitting the larger 2 with relative ease with a front rest, and once I got the rear bag out, the little 2 inch plate wasn't much trouble either. Just watch the leaves, aim at the support bar the targets hang from (I"m sighted in at 50 yards), and shoot between gusts. BANG....PIINGG!! The delay between the gunshot and the target impact is kinda cool.
BTW, did I mention that's with the $1.47 a box Federal Champion ammo I swear by anytime someone asks? I did take a box down to the loading bench to weigh and sort them in an attempt at better accuracy. The majority fell between 51.3 and 51.7 with a few being slightly outside that range. Seemed to help eliminate fliers, which I assume were the 51.2's and 51.9's.
I've already started plotting on how I can throw some more money away on this one. Looking like some new rings, a better scope and maybe a new front rest are in order. I want to try one of the solid, adjustable rests. I use a Caldwell 2-piece set-up right now. They work good but still leave a lot up to me. Scope will probably be the Barksa Varmint or Varminter 4-16X50AO. Under $100 but the one I had on my Ruger served me well once I got it mounted in some decent rings. The BSA Contender looks appealing to though and it comes with a sunshade which, in my opinion, would make it look totally sweet!
All in all I'm extremely pleased with my purchase. It's heavy, well balanced, and shoots better than any other .22 I've owned. I've put around 200 rounds through it with no problems at all. Really has me kicking myself over that stupid 10/22 now. :banghead:
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