Quote Originally Posted by RKG
My 12 VLP measured out at 2.8053" +/-.0003" with a Sierra 168 MK just touching the lands. I have (for the moment at least) settled on 2.791", as these loads (42.2 RL-15; CCI LR; new Winchester brass) shoot better than I do.

While I'm no expert, I've measured a number of rifles for others. In general, the numbers you report are what I've seen with R-700s; I've never seen a Savage that long. I'd question your measurement.
I agree, I will measure carefully again.