When I Wouldn't Buy a Savage: Model 93

Published on December 31, 2021
Duration: 33:30

This review of the Savage Model 93 series, focusing on the 17 HMR and 22 Magnum calibers, highlights its potential for varmint hunting and recreational shooting games like 'Mini Sniper.' However, the reviewer expresses significant dissatisfaction with the rifle's magazine system, citing reliability issues and compatibility problems with older models. Despite acknowledging the rifle's accuracy and the effectiveness of the AccuTrigger, the persistent magazine-related malfunctions lead to a strong recommendation against purchasing the Model 93 in its current configuration.

Quick Summary

The Savage Model 93, while capable of good accuracy, suffers from significant magazine reliability issues, including difficult insertion/extraction and magazines dropping during firing. These problems, coupled with compatibility issues between older and newer magazine designs, lead the reviewer to strongly recommend against purchasing the rifle in its current configuration, favoring alternatives like the Ruger American.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Previous Review
  2. 00:44Calibers: 22 Mag & 17 HMR
  3. 01:58Aesthetics & Initial Impressions
  4. 02:47Philosophy of Use: Predator Hunting
  5. 03:3517 HMR Cartridge Performance
  6. 04:54Philosophy of Use: Mini Sniper Game
  7. 10:44Philosophy of Use: Bug Out Kit (No)
  8. 11:31Ammunition Availability Concerns
  9. 11:45Model Variations & Features
  10. 13:12Specific Model: 93 R17 BVSS
  11. 13:26Barrel & Muzzle Threading
  12. 14:20Barrel Contour & Weight
  13. 15:33Stock Design & Material
  14. 16:25Receiver & Optics Mounting
  15. 17:11Bolt Knob & Action Smoothness
  16. 17:36Safety & Trigger (AccuTrigger)
  17. 17:49Magazine System Issues (Rant)
  18. 21:12Magazine Compatibility Problems
  19. 23:54Stock & Forend Details
  20. 24:47Bolt Mechanism & Ejector
  21. 25:25Shooting Performance & Accuracy
  22. 25:44Minimalist 22 Mag Accuracy
  23. 26:2617 HMR Accuracy (Personal Rifle)
  24. 27:18Shooting Notes & Effort
  25. 27:34Overall Take & Recommendation
  26. 28:14Competitive Offerings: Ruger American
  27. 30:31Competitive Offerings: CZ & Browning
  28. 31:05Final Thoughts & No Recommend
  29. 31:42Conclusion & Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main philosophies of use for the Savage Model 93 rifle?

The Savage Model 93 is primarily suited for varmint and predator hunting, especially in calibers like the 17 HMR. It's also recommended for recreational shooting games like the 'Mini Sniper' drill, which focuses on rapid engagement of multiple targets and practicing marksmanship fundamentals without breaking the bank on ammunition costs.

What are the primary criticisms of the Savage Model 93's magazine system?

The reviewer criticizes the Savage Model 93's magazine system as antiquated and problematic. Key issues include difficulty in insertion and extraction, magazines dropping during firing, feeding failures, and incompatibility between older and newer magazine designs, leading to significant reliability concerns.

How does the Savage Model 93's accuracy compare to its reliability issues?

Despite experiencing significant reliability problems, primarily with the magazines, the Savage Model 93 can achieve good accuracy, with the 17 HMR variant demonstrating sub-MOA potential at 100 yards. However, the reviewer states that achieving this accuracy required considerable effort due to the rifle's other functional shortcomings.

What are the recommended alternatives to the Savage Model 93?

For those seeking a reliable rimfire rifle in 17 HMR or 22 Magnum, the reviewer strongly recommends the Ruger American rifle, citing its superior magazine system, included picatinny rail, and overall better competitive offering. Other options mentioned include the CZ 457 and Browning T-Bolt.

Why would you not recommend the Savage Model 93 for a bug-out kit?

The Savage Model 93 is considered too heavy for a bug-out kit. The reviewer suggests that for such a purpose, lighter, single-shot bolt-action rifles like the Savage Rascal are more appropriate, as they are designed for lightweight portability and single-shot utility for small game procurement.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from nutnfancy

View all →