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Savage 110 Trail Hunter Review: A Comprehensive Look at This Hunting Rifle

The Savage 110 series has long been a staple in the hunting community, known for its accuracy, reliability, and affordability. The Savage 110 Trail Hunter aims to build upon this legacy, offering modern features and enhanced performance for the contemporary hunter. This Savage 110 Trail Hunter review will delve into the rifle’s key characteristics, assessing its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your hunting needs.

Overview of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter

The Savage 110 Trail Hunter is a bolt-action rifle designed for hunting in various terrains and conditions. It boasts a number of notable features, including a threaded barrel, an AccuFit stock system, and a user-adjustable AccuTrigger. These features are intended to enhance accuracy, comfort, and overall shooting experience. The rifle is available in a variety of calibers, catering to different game types and hunting preferences. Its durable construction and weather-resistant finish make it suitable for demanding outdoor environments. Before diving deep, let’s lay out the key specifications.

Key Specifications

Action: Bolt Action
Calibers: Multiple, including .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield, and more.
Barrel Length: Typically 22 inches, but can vary depending on caliber.
Twist Rate: Varies by caliber.
Stock: AccuFit synthetic stock.
Trigger: User-adjustable AccuTrigger.
Threaded Barrel: Yes, typically 5/8×24 threads.
Magazine Capacity: Typically 4-5 rounds, depending on caliber.
Weight: Approximately 7.5-8.5 lbs, depending on caliber and configuration.

Detailed Feature Analysis

AccuFit Stock System

One of the standout features of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is its AccuFit stock system. This system allows the shooter to customize the length-of-pull and comb height to achieve a more comfortable and consistent fit. The AccuFit system includes interchangeable inserts and cheek risers, enabling users to fine-tune the stock to their specific body type and shooting style. A well-fitted stock is crucial for accuracy, as it promotes proper cheek weld and eye alignment with the scope. This adjustability makes the rifle accessible to a wider range of shooters, regardless of their size or build. It also allows the rifle to grow with younger shooters or adapt to different clothing layers in varying weather conditions.

AccuTrigger

The AccuTrigger is another key component that contributes to the Savage 110 Trail Hunter’s reputation for accuracy. This trigger system is user-adjustable, allowing shooters to customize the trigger pull weight to their preference. The AccuTrigger features a bladed safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge, providing an added layer of safety. A crisp, clean trigger pull is essential for consistent shot placement, and the AccuTrigger delivers just that. The ability to adjust the trigger pull weight allows shooters to optimize the rifle for different shooting scenarios and personal preferences. Many users find that the AccuTrigger significantly improves their shooting accuracy compared to traditional triggers.

Threaded Barrel

The Savage 110 Trail Hunter comes standard with a threaded barrel, making it easy to attach muzzle devices such as suppressors or muzzle brakes. Suppressors reduce recoil and muzzle blast, making the rifle more comfortable to shoot and reducing the risk of spooking game. Muzzle brakes help to mitigate recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The threaded barrel provides versatility, allowing shooters to customize the rifle to their specific needs and preferences. The standard threading (typically 5/8×24) ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket muzzle devices. This feature is particularly appealing to hunters who prioritize stealth and recoil management.

Barrel and Action

The barrel of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is typically made from carbon steel and features a button-rifled design for enhanced accuracy. The action is based on the proven Savage 110 platform, known for its reliability and durability. The combination of a high-quality barrel and a robust action ensures consistent performance and long-term reliability. The action is smooth and easy to operate, allowing for fast and reliable cycling of rounds. The barrel’s twist rate is optimized for the specific caliber, ensuring optimal bullet stabilization and accuracy. The overall design of the barrel and action contributes to the rifle’s reputation for consistent and repeatable performance.

Caliber Options

The Savage 110 Trail Hunter is available in a variety of calibers, catering to a wide range of hunting applications. Popular caliber options include .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, and 7mm Remington Magnum. Each caliber offers different ballistic characteristics and is suitable for different game types and hunting distances. The .308 Winchester is a versatile round that is suitable for a wide range of game, while the 6.5 Creedmoor is known for its long-range accuracy and low recoil. The .30-06 Springfield is a classic hunting cartridge that has been used for decades to take down big game. The availability of multiple caliber options allows hunters to choose the best cartridge for their specific needs and hunting conditions.

Performance and Accuracy

The Savage 110 Trail Hunter is known for its impressive accuracy, thanks to its high-quality barrel, adjustable AccuTrigger, and customizable AccuFit stock. Many users report achieving sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy with factory ammunition. The rifle’s consistent performance makes it a reliable choice for hunting in a variety of conditions. The combination of these features ensures that the shooter can consistently place accurate shots, increasing their chances of a successful hunt. The rifle’s accuracy is also enhanced by its stable and ergonomic design, which helps to minimize shooter fatigue and improve overall shooting comfort. [See also: Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP Review].

Pros and Cons

Pros

Accuracy: Known for its excellent accuracy, often achieving sub-MOA results.
Adjustability: The AccuFit stock system allows for customized fit and comfort.
AccuTrigger: The user-adjustable AccuTrigger provides a crisp and clean trigger pull.
Threaded Barrel: Allows for easy attachment of muzzle devices.
Caliber Options: Available in a variety of calibers to suit different hunting needs.
Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials for long-lasting reliability.
Value: Offers a lot of features and performance for its price point.

Cons

Weight: Can be a bit heavy for some hunters, especially when fully loaded.
Stock Material: While functional, the synthetic stock may not appeal to those who prefer traditional wood stocks.

Real-World Hunting Scenarios

The Savage 110 Trail Hunter excels in a variety of hunting scenarios. Its accuracy and adjustable features make it well-suited for long-range shooting in open terrain, while its durable construction and weather-resistant finish make it a reliable choice for hunting in harsh environments. The availability of different calibers allows hunters to tailor the rifle to the specific game they are pursuing. For example, the 6.5 Creedmoor is a popular choice for deer and antelope hunting, while the .30-06 Springfield is a better option for larger game such as elk and moose. The threaded barrel allows hunters to use suppressors to reduce noise and recoil, making it a good choice for hunting in areas where noise is a concern. [See also: Best Hunting Rifles Under $1000].

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring the long-term reliability and accuracy of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The barrel should be cleaned after each shooting session to remove fouling and prevent rust. The action should be lubricated with a high-quality gun oil to ensure smooth cycling of rounds. The stock should be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. It is also important to inspect the rifle regularly for any signs of damage or wear. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your Savage 110 Trail Hunter in top condition for years to come.

Alternatives to the Savage 110 Trail Hunter

While the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is an excellent rifle, there are several alternatives that hunters may want to consider. Some popular alternatives include the Remington 700, the Winchester Model 70, and the Tikka T3x. The Remington 700 is a classic bolt-action rifle that has been used by hunters for decades. The Winchester Model 70 is another popular choice that is known for its accuracy and reliability. The Tikka T3x is a Finnish-made rifle that is known for its smooth action and excellent accuracy. Each of these rifles offers different features and benefits, so it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision. [See also: Savage 110 vs Remington 700].

Final Verdict on the Savage 110 Trail Hunter

In conclusion, the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is a well-rounded hunting rifle that offers a lot of value for its price. Its accuracy, adjustability, and durability make it a reliable choice for hunters of all skill levels. The AccuFit stock system and AccuTrigger provide a customized shooting experience, while the threaded barrel allows for easy attachment of muzzle devices. While it may be a bit heavy for some, the overall performance and features of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter make it a top contender in the hunting rifle market. This Savage 110 Trail Hunter review hopefully provided enough information for you to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is definitely worth considering. It provides a solid foundation for building your hunting experience and is adaptable to various hunting environments and game types. The consistent accuracy makes it a true workhorse for the avid hunter.