What breed of Model 12 do I have?

[steveNChunter]

Ok here's what I think I know.

I have traded for a Savage model 12 single-shot in .223 with a 26" 1:9 twist fluted heavy barrel. It has the target accu-trigger which breaks at a crisp 1.5#. It has a Choate synthetic stock with a "V" style bedding block in it. John Plaster's name is on the side.

I think it's a discontinued model 12VSS Varminter.

Here's what's written on the side:

https://scontent-b-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1.0-9/10006185_747367655296628_8445183015453096543_n.jpg


And here's a pic of the rifle:

https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1.0-9/10154452_747330598633667_7569676242516387926_n.jpg

What I'm wondering is what's the story behind these rifles? Is this likely the original stock for the rifle? Could you purchase these rifles straight through Savage or were they some kind of distributor exclusive or what?

[Hotolds442]

Did you try putting the rifle's serial number into the Savage parts finder? That may tell you everything you need to know about it except for the current value, which we aren't allowed to ask on this site.

[steveNChunter]

I did not know about the parts finder, thanks for the suggestion. Also didn't realize we couldn't ask about the value. No biggie, I just deleted that part of it.

The parts finder told me that I have a Model 12 VSS-S manufactured Feb. 26th 2003

I've googled the VSS and the VSS-S and can't figure out the difference. What's the extra -S for?

[Hotolds442]

The VSS-S is the single shot version of the VSS

Here's a link to the 2003 Savage Arms catalog in PDF.
http://www.savageshooters.com/PDF_Files/2003_SavageArms.pdf

[steveNChunter]

Ok that makes sense. Thanks

I can't wait to get it scoped and see how it shoots. If it shoots as good or better than my .223 Axis which regularly gives me groups in the .2's with my handloads, I'll be happy. If the Axis proves to be the better shooter, something's wrong lol

[COplains]

Not to hijack but hey hot, how did you get that link? I'd like a 2005 catalog and my searching savagearms did not produce any results. kb

[Hotolds442]

Click on the Home tab, upper left of the page.
then click history on the left.
the 2005 is there also.

[jdpenterprises]

My buddy has one like that, except I'm pretty sure his is a repeater. 1" bull and one of the most accurate stock savages I've seen. Good find.

[steveNChunter]

I threw an old scope on it today and shortened some of my reloads from my Axis so they would be .010 off the lands. After I got it zeroed I shot three 3-shot groups at 100 yards. Best one measured .277" center to center. I'm sure a little load development will tighten that up a bit but I'd say it's a keeper :eagerness:

[Hotolds442]

Definitely a keeper!

[steveNChunter]

Funny thing is that my Axis stainless .223 shoots just as good with that same load. Go figure

[teo74]

I really like that Bolt handle, Would anyone know a part number?

[steveNChunter]

The parts finder tells me the bolt handle part # is- 106197 and it's $35