Ruger Hawkeye Predator .204 (~$1100) or Savage 110 Predator .204 (~$850)?

[Life2A]

Interested to hear opinions on subject factory .204's. Mainly range gun, but some varminting, too. Between the two, which would you choose?

Thanks.

[Bill K]

You might even check the Savage Axis in 204 R. You would be surprised how well it shoots, for a rifle around $500.00 , but if you want to stick to those two, then I would say go with the savage 110.

[Life2A]

Bill K - thanks much for the response. Any particular reason why you'd pick the Savage over the Ruger?

[Bill K]

My main reason is that you have more choices for a pre-fit barrel for the Savage action, if and when you want to obtain a new or different cartridge to put on it. That way you have a DIY avenue to play with, down the road.

[Life2A]

Got it. Makes sense. Thank you!

[Bill K]

I must add, that I am not putting Ruger down. I have and do like Ruger products. But I still like the after market products that are more available to some other brands at this time.
But Savage, Remington, Tikka and the 527 CZ's and some others just have the better after market supplies, in my opinion.

[Rick in Oregon]

But Savage, Remington, Tikka and the 527 CZ's and some others just have the better after market supplies, in my opinion.

Never been a Savage fan, but I'll admit that in the gun-world, Savage is like a small block Chevy in the car/truck world.....beaucoup aftermarket accessories available for about every imaginable need and want.

The best part is.....we live in America where we have choices....and lots of them!

[skipper]

If it were me and the range being the predominate use, I would choose the Savage 12 LRPV. Right bolt, left port, adjustable AccuTrigger, HS fiberglass bedded stock. But then I have always leaned towards that type of rifle.

[Life2A]

skipper - yea, the RBLP, AccuTrigger and stock on the LRPV are very enticing, but I just don't know if the ~$600+ cost is worth it. The 110 does have the AccuTrigger and AccuStock (I know it's not on the same level as an HS Precision). I also like the 26" barrel, but for varminting here in the northeast, don't know if it's really better than the 24" 110...

Decisions, decisions.

[skipper]

Just go with your gut and don't look back. Go have some fun with whatever you decide.

[jsh]

I won’t be shy, I am a Savage nut, own more than my share. After market support for them has come on slowly but getting better.

I have had a couple of Ruger 77’s, in big game calibers though. Until the changed up actions a while back you seldom if ever saw one at a match. Today’s popular games, they have come around a fair bit.

There was a lot of negative comments when Savage came out with the accu-trigger. Now everyone uses them.

[SecretCode]

It's preference at the end of the day. Which one do you want to look at more and handle more. I love accurate guns but it makes it all the more enjoyable to shoot if it looks and handles well. I've had the older Ruger's with the tang safety. Savage is and still is what I seem to end up with at the end of the day mostly. I picked up a used 110 weather warrior in .204 a few months ago and am waiting for some decent weather to see what it likes for loads. If I can't find anything it likes I'll swap out a new never fired factory take off barrel I bought in .223 (same model rifle).
My main .204 is a Savage VLP. Don't overlook it if you come across one.

[Life2A]

FWIW I ordered the Savage 12 LRPV .204. It seemed like the best factory option currently available. I may look into a 20 Vartarg 1:11 once I shoot out the barrel.

[skipper]

IMO, that was the best choice for you. I think you'll love it. Send pictures, please.

[skipper]

Forgot to mention, Pacific Tool & Gauge can build you a reamer that will allow you to reach the lands. Just shout when you're ready and we can help with the Least Cost Route.