Savage vs Steven's actions

[bookworm]

Thinking of putting together my first inexpensive build off of a Savage or Steven's action (in.308) and I need some input on some of the differences and pros/cons on some options. I'm planning on starting with an action and putting a nice barrel and stock on it and either using the Accutrigger or putting a nicer trigger on it. Application is punching paper for fun...and part of the fun is tinkering and learning through the build process as well.

There is a local sale which has a Savage Model 14 in stainless for $555, Model 111 for $500 and a Stevens model 200 for $282. If any of these are a good fit and a good price I might jump on it now. Alternately, I could watch for a used one.

I've read that if all you want is the action the Steven's is the same as the Savage (other than trigger), but wonder if that is 100% true. Any inputs or links where I can find more info on this?

I also notice that the Savage model 14 has a smooth barrel nut so I'm wondering if that creates problems for the barrel swap I have planned. True? I was planning to do the barrel swap myself.

I'm a bit new to the Savage realm, so any inputs would be appreciates.

 

[Centxshooter]

Same except for the trigger - built a 7-08 off the stevens action and added rifle basix trigger and have a great shooter.

 

[joe0121]

building my own .308 based on a Stevens. If you don't want a new stock get the Savage the stock on the Stevens is a complete joke. If you planned on a different stock to begin with get the Stevens. I got the prairie dog stock from stockade. I did the money saver cus I wanted to finish the stock myself anyways. Custom made stock complete with bottom metal that accept AI mags shipped to my door for 509 bucks.

A set of weaver rings and base with SS 10X40 mm Scope and you'll have an MOA shooter. I'm also getting the ER Shaw tactical barrel from midway for 140 bucks.

 

[geargrinder]

The smooth nut is no problem. A pipe wrench will work just fine.

Then replace it with a regular old style grooved nut.

 

[joe0121]

The smooth nut is no problem. A pipe wrench will work just fine.

Then replace it with a regular old style grooved nut.

Mine was grooved. It's about 6mo's old did they just start that?

 

[geargrinder]

Mine was grooved. It's about 6mo's old did they just start that?

They did it about a year ago on most of the Savage lines.

 

[joe0121]

They did it about a year ago on most of the Savage lines.

No kidding. I saw the new wrenches for it. Wonder if it was to save money on machining.

 

[bookworm]

Thanks - very helpful info. One more question...

As I look at stocks I'm noticing that for a given stock model they will list "Savage 10 12 112" or something similar from a compatibility standpoint. Since they are specifically listing models 10, 12, and 112 are these the only compatible models...or will other models like 111, 14, or even Stevens 200 work in these stocks as well?

I know on Remington 700 all you need to worry about is long or short action for the most part. I'm a Savage Newbie so I don't fully understand compatibility between the models. Is there a reference to determine which Savage/Steven's models are truly interchangeable for stocks and accessories?

 

[geargrinder]

Thanks - very helpful info. One more question...

As I look at stocks I'm noticing that for a given stock model they will list "Savage 10 12 112" or something similar from a compatibility standpoint. Since they are specifically listing models 10, 12, and 112 are these the only compatible models...or will other models like 111, 14, or even Stevens 200 work in these stocks as well?

I know on Remington 700 all you need to worry about is long or short action for the most part. I'm a Savage Newbie so I don't fully understand compatibility between the models. Is there a reference to determine which Savage/Steven's models are truly interchangeable for stocks and accessories?

For the most part, the two digit models are short action. The three digit's are long action.

There are exceptions. There are the early short actions that were called 110's, but are a bit shorter than the long actions. There is also the long action 110's with a short action magazine opening. My 338 Edge is built on one of these. The model 12 target actions also have some different screw spacing.

 

[joe0121]

For the most part, the two digit models are short action. The three digit's are long action.

There are exceptions. There are the early short actions that were called 110's, but are a bit shorter than the long actions. There is also the long action 110's with a short action magazine opening. My 338 Edge is built on one of these. The model 12 target actions also have some different screw spacing.

It's all part of the savage charm. It's annoying at times but it's how they produce a competitive product at a great price.

apparently savage manufactures on an as needed basis to fill orders.

 

[bookworm]

Thanks, the 2 digit vs 3 digit is a good tip...sounds like there's more to learn. Too bad it's that complicated. Looks like I'd need to call the stock manufacturer to verify exactly which Savage/Steven's actions they will fit.
Is there anywhere I might be able to learn about the differences between the actions based on their model number?

Is it the same with Steven's?

 

[geargrinder]

Thanks, the 2 digit vs 3 digit is a good tip...sounds like there's more to learn. Too bad it's that complicated. Looks like I'd need to call the stock manufacturer to verify exactly which Savage/Steven's actions they will fit.
Is there anywhere I might be able to learn about the differences between the actions based on their model number?

Is it the same with Steven's?

No, all Steven's are 200's. Long and short. Just like Remington 700.

Steven's come in limited calibers and no finish options so it's pretty obvious if it is long or short action. I don't know if the short actions changed screw spacing when Savage did during the Accutrigger change.

Here is some good info.

New Page 4

 

[bookworm]

Thanks for the link...very helpful.

I see that Savage has changes some fundamental things over the years that can affect compatibility of various components (screw hole spacing, barrel thread diameter, etc.).

However, if I just look at their current production is the only real difference short or long action (and corresponding screw pitch)?

For example when I see models 10, 11, 12, 14, 16...I see a variety of different accessories/components that go with these rifles. But from a stripped action mechanical point of view, are they all the same (other than the obvious stainless and right/left hand variants)?

 

[D.ID]

Most current production savages are the same actions. Short action 4.4" screw spacing, Centerfeed magazine. Models 10-16.......... 12&16 typically stainless. Of course you will have other variants within the action such as bolt handles and bolt faces. The standard model 12 is referred to as a varmint and is part of the standard family, There is also a 12 target which is a different animal, as the the top of the action has not bean milled away so you get ejection port or ports depending, instead of full open top. The long action has bean updated with the newer trigger and newer mag design as well as a rounded top were the scope mount attaches but the screw spacing has not changed. Beware the accustock models as they are a little different............... Savageshooters is a pay for full access sight but well worth the twelve bucks a year if you want to learn everything there is to know about the wonderful world of savage. Info, Classifieds, smiths and dealers specializing in the savage builds. I have a couple savages and total confidence that all future projects of mine will be based on the savage long action. Good Luck..............Duke