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Hi everyone,
New to the forum. I used to shoot a Savage LRPV .223 some years ago, but nothing since. I have just aquired a 114 American Classic stainless in 30.06, and wondered if you could tell me anything about it with regards to accuracy, reliability etc. Any info/advice will be appreciated. It looks great and, if it shoots as good as it looks, I will be a happy bunny!!
Thanks in advance,
Eastman
I have a couple of the 14's not 114's. But they are excellent firearms, with no hickups that I've heard of besides savages crappy screw construction. They are great firearms and should be more accurate than you can be. I know mine are more than I.
DOn't worry bout the barrel profile, trigger ect ect. THe way savage set the rifle up is pretty darn good. COuld probably use a little bedding work, but i've been very very satisfied with my rifle. Mine are 300wsm and 308win, both are about equal at 600yds.
good glass and a proper rail for the scope will ensure it is always accurate and tough to boot!
It's the worst rifle in the world. You made a horrible mistake. Send it to me, along with a $100.00 disposal fee, and I'll never tell a soul you were suckered into buying it.
Merry Christmas.
Seriously, Savages have a great reputation for being accurate rifles, but you already knew that or you would not have purchased a second one. Unless yours has been abused, there is a really good chance that it will shoot as well as it looks. As with any machine, things can go wrong, but there really aren't that many moving parts on a Savage rifle. Read a lot in this forum, lurk, listen, and ask questions.
When you do ask questions, it is helpful to let the forum members know how you are planning to use the rifle. Answers to such things as what scope or what ammo to use are very different for someone shooting at long range targets, as opposed to someone hunting dangerous game at close range. The more info you can provide, the better the answers and opinions you will receive. Welcome to the club.
I guess I could have been a little more specific. The rifle will be used for hunting Deer/ Black Bear in New Brunswick, Canada,
usually within 100 yards, but with a posibility of a longer shot. I have Leupold bases & rings for it, and my scope is a Leupold VX 11 4-12x40 A/O. All are stainless I normally shoot on 5 to 7 power. I reload my ammo. Any 30.06 I have used has done best with 180 gr bullets. I have some 180 gr Ballistic tip (hunting) and some 200 gr Accubond. The accubonds were a great deal from a friend, but I wish they were 180's. I'm a bit of an accuracy freak, so I hope I can get this new rifle shooting very well.
Thanks for the welcome, and the advice/info
Eastman
I have a Savage 14 Classic. I have not shot it much but shooting propped up on my truck tailgate it got .85 moa average groups. I'm sure if I steadied up the gun with bags it would easily be scary accurate. I have had no issues with my gun. love mine. One thing I did do was go from a 2 pc. base to a Weaver 1 pc. tactical rail and it shot much tighter groups. Let us know how she shoots. I am shooting Federal BTSP 165 gr. bullets in mine.
I just ordered one in 7mm-08. Can't wait to find out.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
The 7mm.08 is a great caliber. So is the 30.06. I got a 3.08. All 3 are great deer cartridges.
Not to mention wild boar.Quote:
Originally Posted by back40
It sounds to me like I may have chosen a winner! Thanks for the replies. Would this rifle handle 200 gr bullets? I like 180's, but have some 200 gr Accubonds.
Also, I plan to use Leuopold bases & rings, with a VX11 scope.....any oppinions? Thanks.
Are those Leupold bases and rings aluminum? I was considering getting a steel Picatinny rail and steel Warne Maxima 1'' fixed rings.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
What do you think?
The one piece Leupold base & rings I have now are steel, I have some more on the way from the Guy who sold me the Savage, but not sure what they are. Wouldn't mind a picatinny rail though. I would think your rail & rings will be just great.
This man is trolling and trying to take advantage of you.Quote:
Originally Posted by thomae
........I will waive the $100 fee.
Nice. Another believer in steel rings and bases.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Curses! foiled again! :eyebrows:Quote:
Originally Posted by rattfink
Check the twist. If it is 1:10 (as I believe most of them are), you should be able to handle those 200 grain accubonds.
thomae & rattfink, very funny!!:biggrin-new: This is a great forum!!! I do believe it has a 1:10 twist. I am wondering about the scope also. I will be shooting within 100 yards for the most part, and my VX11 is 4-12x40. I have a B&L 2.5-10x40 (4000 elite) but it isn't as good as the leupold. I usually find I'm on 5 to 7 power, so maybe I'll be ok with the Leupy Any thoughts?
My thoughts on a scope for the ranges you mentioned in a previous post would hinge upon the details of your hunting environment. You mentioned that shots over 100 yards are unlikely, but didn't say whether or not you are hunting in woods, over a small field, from the ground, or from a stand. I would take all that into consideration when choosing a scope.
For shots up to 100 yards in an area with a lot of trees and brush, I would want a lower power scope, especially if ground hunting. You likely won't have much time to take a shot, and you need to be able to "find" the deer or bear in your scope quickly. I lost a nice buck once because my scope was set too high, and the deer appeared way closer than I thought it would.
On the other hand if you are shooting 100 yards across a field, you could use more magnification if you wanted to because you have more time to sight your target through the scope. If it were me, I'd go with a lower power scope. I think the 2.5x10 or a 3x9 would be ideal. 4 power as your minimum probably isn't too much, but it would be harder to acquire a deer or bear moving through the woods at 4 power than at 2.5 power.
Obviously light transmission plays a part, and not having either of those scopes you mentioned, I can't comment on what capability you might lose during the low light periods of dusk and dawn with one scope versus the other.
Did you actually compare the two scopes at their lowest magnifications in low light? (Frankly, during the day, especially at 100 yards, I don't think (personal opinion) any difference in light transmission between the two scopes you mentioned will affect your hunting success. They both have good reputations as quality glass.)
I hope this is helpful.
I bought two ACs about 5-6 years ago(CRS!), a 14 in 7-08 and a 114 in 270, both CF hinged mag models. I put a 243 barrel on the 14 for my oldest grandson's first goat rifle. For this season I put the original unfired '08 barrel back on.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Other than swapping barrels and setting the trigger WOP its "AS-IS" out of the box. The only minor issue, the stock was inletted a tad deep allowing bolt head to ride on the magazine a bit. Ten minutes and a dab of JB Quick "fixed" it.
Accuracy wise with either barrel, "snot bubble" routinely shoots sub one inch groups and has collected three whitetails with it, the last a seven Saturday, all one "shoters"! ( Is that a word???)
I can't say how well the 114 shoots, its still unfired in the box.
If your AC performs as well I don't think you'll be disappointed. If you are I'll better thomae's offer, I waive the disposal fee and even split the shipping cost with ya only because I'm one heck of a nice guy!
Bill
I haven't compared the two scopes yet as the leupold is still in trasit to me! I have looked through this model, and it is better than the B&L for sure. And the Leupy is silver which will look very nice on the Stainless savage AC...in the stainless rings & base, I think.
As for my shooting enviroment, I hunt from a tree stand/house in the woods, but there is a good shooting lane leading to a small clear area about 100 yards away. We are alowed to bait, so I have apples there, along with salt/minerals. I shot a deer there last year,with my scope on 5 power, and it was just fine, so I'm thinking that the Leupold should be good to go with. Having said that Thomae, what you said makes good sense, and I will compare the scopes soon, and let you know what I think. It does get "darkish" fairly quickly where I hunt in the trees, but the clearing always stays brighter, and the target is usually still.
Once again I thank you Guys for your thoughts,advice...and humour!!
BillPa, Is it easy to swap barrels on Savage rifles? I'm not very adept at things like that!
How's this? Since you need to get rid of that terrible rifle, I'll collect it from you and pay you a collection fee of $100.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Hi RogerSS, I just found out that the Base & Rings that I am waiting for from the Guy who sold me the savage, consists of two piece Leupold stainless STEEL bases, and medium STEEL rings. I was hoping it was going to be a one piece base. Do you think I will be good with these?
John.
I'd say yes. Even though I'm just a rookie here, I'm learning that 2 piece bases vs. one piece base - no discernable difference in terms of sturdiness, accuracy, etc... The fact that they're both steel is what gives you the advantage over aluminum.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
I have a Model 14 in 308 and a Model 114 in 270 Win and I really like them both. The Model 14 and 114 I have have the stainles steel action and it's looks great with the walnut oil finished stocks. The Model 14 in 308 is slightly more accurate then the Model 114 in 270 Win with the reloads I'm shooting so I need to work up a couple of different loads for the 270 to see if I can thighten up the groups a little although they are just slightly over 1 inch at a 100 yards now with the 270 and the 308 is sub 1 inch at 100 yards. I think Savage hit a huge home run with these rifles as the trigger is great and they shoot great and look awesome if you like walnut stocks.
I've hearing about the accuracy advantages of a wood stock. And there's just something about the looks. Classic, classy, traditional, beautiful.Quote:
Originally Posted by fyimo
I have a Savage 114 European Classic in 30-06 (same as the American but with sights) I can stay under an inch with some of my 200gr. handloads, same thing with the 180 grain bullets. I have one 200 gr. handload that will shoot 3/4 of an inch. These are very accurate rifles.
Joe
Hi Joe,
Interesting to hear you load with 200 gr bullets. I have some 200 gr Accubonds, and was wondering about them. What powder are you using? I have some H4350, and 4895. Any tips? I use Winchester brass...nicol plated, & Win primers. Does the European classic have a monte carlo stock? (Not sure that's spelt correctly! ) I'm well pleased with the looks of this rifle, and hope it shoots good. John
Hi everyone,
Just got my new rifle set-up, and thought I'd send a couple of pics!! Not the best, but it gives you some idea. Do you think I will be ok with these standard leupold rings? They are medium, wondered if I might get away with low....any thoughts? Any other type? Many thanks.
Eastman
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b2...icture7611.jpg http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b2...icture7613.jpg
Wow. What a beauty. congrats! I'm going to pick up my Savage 11 FCNS .308 tomorrow and American Classic 7mm-08 early next week.
Thanks, I think it looks nice. I've often wondered about the 7mm-08, What do you think about that caliber? I'm thinking about Deer when I ask that.
Cant go wrong with the 7-08 for deer or caribou. Good shot placement will get a moose as well. Moose arn't hard to kill.
El Lobo
Research the caliber on Wikipedia. Actually some really good info. esp. about something called BC (ballistic coefficient) 7mm-08 maintains alot of muzzle energy and transfers it effectively at far distances. Usually very quickly lethal for large game given good shot placement, of course. (Engine room.) Heart and/or lungs.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Thanks Roger SS, I'll check it out.
Last years Deer was taken at approximately 70 yards, and was a neck shot. It never took a step!
Beyond that, I think I would take a high shoulder, or behind the shoulder shot ( Engine room ) I know that the .308 is a very accurate caliber, and I love it. Would you say that the 7mm-08 is also renouned for accuracy? John.
I'd say so. The 7mm has an even flatter trajectory that the .30 caliber bullet.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Yeah, having just read the wikipedia article, I have to agree. All those quotes from some very experienced shooters has convinced me that what you say is correct. Almost on a par with the .270 trajectory, is surprising. I think my next rifle could very well be in 7mm-08. I see you have a Marlin XS7 listed. How do you like it?
Embarrasing to say but haven't even fired it yet. Everyone else with one says it shoots great with lower recoil than .30-06 or .308 Can't wait to get a scope for it and break it in at the range...soon! lolQuote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Well I hope it shoots great!! Thanks for the info. It's 12-45am here in New Brunswick Canada, so I'm off to bed. Hope to chat again soon.
Regards,
John
Thanks John. Talk to you later.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Hi again guys,
Just wondered if anyone could tell me if Leupold low rings would fit my 114 American classic 30.06. I have on medium rings at the moment with the Leupold VX11 a/o 4-12x40 scope ( See pics in earlier thread ) There is about 3/8 inch space left under front of scope. I like my scope as close to barrel as I can get it. My rings are std. If low will fit, I will try to trade for them...if anyone has any!
Thanks John
Don't have the answer John but I'll be standing by too for it... hopefully. I prefer the scope close to the bore, have the same power, dimensions scope except mine's a Nikon and i just picked up my Savage 14 American Classic in 7mm-08 tonight. A perfect beauty of a rifle!Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
Thanks for the reply Roger. I'll come back on in the morning and see if there's any info. Which Nikon you got...Bucksmasters? Can you post pics of your rifle please, Would love to see it.
Thanks, John.
It's actually a Prostaff 4-12x40 Also bought a Redfield Revenge 6-18x44 and a Vortex Viper 6.5-20x44 Got a Savage 111 Long Range Hunter 7mm Rem Mag on the way too! Gotta figure out which scope is going where. I've gone nuts. Now got to save up for a camera. lol Sorry.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
I put the Redfield Revenge 4-12x42 on my Axis 223 but am wishing I'd gone with something that has 1/8th increments. Its been a challenge to find the perfect zero but some would say its the cheap factory ammo I've been using. But for the money it won't miss anything the size of a baseball at 100 yards so I'm satisfied. But I'd be happier if that was the size of a golf ball! Actually if I let the barrel cool between shots it is pretty much there. But if cameraland still offers those deals on the Vortex Viper 6.5-20x44 next month I'll probably snatch up a few and see if they are any better. Put the Redfield aside for a rimfire at a later date.
Let us know what ya like best!
Wow! wish I could afford to "go nuts" and buy like that! lol. I have a small camo Prostaff on a my .22 plinker, and that scope is a little beauty!! I used to have a Buckmasters on a .223 LRPV a few years ago, and that rifle would put all shots in a Golf ball all day!! But it was a bit heavy. I don't know anything about the Redfield, but I did have a Vortex viper some time ago, and liked it. I traded it for something later, but can't remember what!?
The VX11 Leupold I have now was a unbelievably generous offer from the guy I got the Savage from. Like new, without a mark on it....$100!!!!! What a Guy!
I think your Prostaff will be great for the Savage 7mm.08 but, if you are like me, you'll be trying different scopes before long lol
Re the Vortex, you say "I'll probably snatch up a few " Man, are you lucky!! If you decide to throw any away, aim then in this direction! I hope someone has the info re the low rings. John
Not quite like it sounds "I'll probably snatch up a few " as I just bought 2 Axis .308's for my 13 yr old twins x-mas gifts. So am committed to buying some glass for them asap! They will probably punch paper more then hunt the Viper for $279 seems like a steal. I might just get them each a Viper and hold out for a Burris FF E1 with the illuminated reticle for myself. Thats what I originally wanted but could only afford the Redfield at the time. Took a better position in the mean time so I can revisit the idea. Never enough paychecks in a month is there!
Funny you should mention a illuminated reticle. I always wanted a illuminated dot....or reticle, but never got one. Sounds like your twins are in for some great shooting. Are they ok with .308 cal? (One of my favourites! )
No answers on the scope rings yet I see!!
John.
The crazy insanity continues. Well, actually... I work hard and have been saving for a long time as well as doing my homework and realizing that long range shooting/hunting will be my thing.
OK....Just picked up my new Browning X-Bolt Medallion .30-06
I definitely need a camera cause words won't do this beauty any justice. Dammm.
You only live once guys.
Hey Roger, Can't wait to see a pic of that Browning!! So that's three 30.06's you got? You're getting spoiled! lol
Well, I hope it shoots as good as it looks...what you looking for next?
Still waiting to hear if anyone has any experience with low leupold std rings on a 114 american classic, with a Leupold VX11 4-12x40 A/O. John.
Next will be the Savage 111 Long Range Hunter 7mm Rem Mag. That will be my final firearm purchase....ever.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
No, seriously.... lol Really.
The leupold low std rings fit my 111 with a Bushnell Elite 4-16x40 A/O with a one piece base. I have a caliper and could measure the size of the bell if you need it. Even enough room for a set of Butler Creek lens covers. Depending on the length of the tube you might need the extended set to get your eye relief right though. I needed the extension when I had a Vortex Viper 3-9x40 on there, it had a pretty short tube.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman
I hope you aren't taking bets on that Roger!! If so, let me have the odds, and I'll re-morgage my house!
Hey Jerkin, I already have the scope on my rifle...see earlier thread for pic. I have approximately 3/8 inch space left, maybe a 1/2 inch at most. The eye relief is fine. I have a feeling the low rings might just fit...but not certain. Not sure if there is any difference between the 111 & the 114? Thanks for the info, and yes, measure the bell on your bushnell please.
John.
LOL. Mabe give Savage a call. They'd probably help clarify any differences between the models, if any.Quote:
Originally Posted by Eastman