Savage actions

[possum1]

I'm sure it's been asked before, read the FAQ's. I'm I correct in assuming the only difference in Stevens and Model 12 action's are the trigger and SS ? Debating on the 12 new rifle or a 200 build.

[MikeCTX]

Do not have a Stevens, but do have a Mod 11 and a Mod 12 VLP - I like each in it's own way. The 11 has been worked on a bit - new synthetic VLP style factory stock and new 20-223 (20Tactical) Shilen barrel. Right now having A LOT of fun with the 20 TAC, but have had a lot of fun with the mod12 also...and learned a lot about reloading while shooting ti. Giving serious thought to a new barrel for the mod 12 though (it's all part of the fun).

[dcloco]

Which model 12 are you considering?

Either way you go, you will be very happy.

[possum1]

Looking at NSS classifieds. Got to thinking if the action's are the same, I could get more " BANG " for my $$ excluding the stainless of course. Or is the 12 worth the extra $$. If I was having to shell out all the cash, I would go with the Stevens, so happen's I'm planning on trading a rifle to a dealer to compensate for the cash.

[82boy]

http://savageshooters.com/SavageForu...c,10750.0.html

[docsleepy]

82boy: THANKS again. You are a wealth of information. Huge help to many!

I just changed out barrel of a 12FV to a shilen 6PPC (also changed bolt face). That alone did not make a huge difference in groups. Next added a $400 benchrest stock and a $160 quality rest. I have not yet bedded that, just screwed in my barrreled action. Went out yesterday and got groups that were better than best before, and fairly repeatable. The BEST I ever got as a .223 12FV (handloads) was 0.375. I only shot 3 sets of groups yesterday, but the first was right off the bat at that level....and the action screws unbeknownst to me worked loose during the 2 hour session. (I have a problem with one of the action threads...'nother issue).

Benchrest stock and rest made a VERY noticeable difference in the stability of the rifle returning to position.
The biggest difference I've seen with the Shilen 6PPC barrel so far (short, fat! rigid) is that there is much less variation with powder charge, and the groups are more consistent.
I am still early. Haven't done much with charge or with seating, tho using a wilson seater pretty near lands. Make one change at a time....

Sure, it isn't as rigid as a Lawton or Stolle, but it is a lot of fun.

[possum1]

Which model 12 are you considering?

VLP 223

[DannoBoone]

possum1, I have three VLP's and really like them. A discontinued model in .25-06 is
shooting 5/16" with the fodder it likes (the stock has been bedded). A .243 is
shooting 3/8-1/2". A .22-250 is tight on horizontal but vertically stringing and the
reason is pretty obvious, so she's going to also get a stock bedding, and I might
also do the .243, just b'cuz.


MikeCTX -- not to change the original subject, but what dies do you use for your
Tac 20? I have no problems with mine prior to fire-forming, but the cases become
very large for the full length Redding dies. The .20 Hornady neck die results in
terrible case run-out, resulting in mediocre groups. The pre fire formed rounds get
1/4" or less groups, if I do my part.

[fatdaddy]

I just went thru the same exercise in mental masturbation. The actions are basically the same but the trigger. The Stevens trigger is best replaced. The stevens action 230 ish + SSS trigger 100.00 = 330ish. Stainless model 12 for 365.00. It comes down to, is it worth 35.00 to get a stainless action? But if you feel you need to replace the 12's trigger too, the stevens would be more cost effective. BTW, I just bought the "light trigger" model 12 in stainless. Could'nt be happier... Bill

[MikeCTX]

[quote=DannoBoone ]
...

I will start another thread to respond, so we don't hijack this one.