The Savage 110 Trail Hunter has quickly become a favorite among hunters for its blend of accuracy, lightweight design, and affordable price point. This in-depth review will explore its key features, performance, and overall suitability for various hunting scenarios. We'll cover everything from its action and barrel to its ergonomics and accessories, helping you determine if the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is the right rifle for you.
Key Features of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter
The Savage 110 Trail Hunter distinguishes itself through several notable design choices.
AccuStock Technology
The rifle incorporates Savage's AccuStock technology, which ensures a consistently solid bedding of the action within the stock. This minimizes flex and vibration, significantly improving accuracy and consistency. Unlike some rifles where the stock might shift slightly during firing, the AccuStock's design aims to eliminate this issue, translating to tighter groups at the range and in the field.
Lightweight Design
Weighing in significantly lighter than many competitors in its class, the Trail Hunter's lightweight design makes it ideal for long hunts where carrying weight is a major factor. This reduced weight doesn't compromise strength; the stock is still durable and capable of withstanding the rigors of hunting. This is particularly beneficial for backpack hunts or extended treks through challenging terrain.
Adjustable AccuTrigger
The adjustable AccuTrigger is a hallmark of Savage rifles. It allows for customization of the trigger pull weight, enabling shooters to fine-tune it to their personal preference. This is crucial for safety and accuracy. A lighter trigger pull (within safe limits) can improve precision, while a heavier pull might be preferred by some hunters. The ability to adjust the trigger makes the rifle adaptable to different users and hunting situations.
Detachable Box Magazine
The inclusion of a detachable box magazine simplifies reloading and makes switching between different ammunition calibers relatively straightforward. This is a significant advantage compared to rifles with internal magazines, particularly when hunting various game animals requiring different calibers. Furthermore, the ease of magazine changes can be a real benefit during a fast-paced hunt.
Performance and Accuracy of the Savage 110 Trail Hunter
The Savage 110 Trail Hunter consistently delivers impressive accuracy. This is largely attributed to the AccuStock system and the rifle's generally well-built components. While individual rifles may vary slightly, many users report sub-MOA accuracy with factory ammunition.
- Case Study: Several online forums and reviews showcase impressive accuracy results from the Savage 110 Trail Hunter, often achieving groups under one inch at 100 yards with specific ammunition types. These results strongly suggest the rifle’s ability to deliver consistent, precision shots.
However, achieving optimal accuracy requires proper ammunition selection. Experimenting with different brands and loads is important to find the ammunition that shoots best in your specific rifle.
Barrel Length and Caliber Options
The Savage 110 Trail Hunter is available in various calibers, allowing hunters to select the optimal cartridge for their intended game. The barrel length also plays a significant role in ballistic performance; longer barrels generally yield higher velocities and flatter trajectories.
| Caliber | Barrel Length (inches) | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| .270 Winchester | 22 | Deer, Antelope, Smaller Game |
| .308 Winchester | 22 | Deer, Elk, Medium-Sized Game |
| .30-06 Springfield | 24 | Elk, Deer, Larger Game |
| 6.5 Creedmoor | 24 | Deer, Antelope, Long-Range Shooting |
Ergonomics and Handling
The Trail Hunter is designed for ease of use and comfortable handling. The stock's design, combined with its lightweight nature, ensures comfortable shouldering and aiming, even during extended hunting sessions.
Accessories and Customization
Numerous accessories are available for the Savage 110 Trail Hunter, enabling further customization to suit individual preferences. These include scopes, mounts, slings, bipods, and various other upgrades. The rifle's compatibility with common accessories enhances its versatility and adaptability.
Conclusion: Is the Savage 110 Trail Hunter Right for You?
The Savage 110 Trail Hunter offers a compelling combination of accuracy, lightweight design, and affordability. Its key features, such as the AccuStock technology and adjustable AccuTrigger, contribute to its performance and user-friendliness. If you're looking for a reliable and accurate hunting rifle that won't break the bank, the Savage 110 Trail Hunter is certainly worth considering. However, remember to choose the appropriate caliber and barrel length based on your hunting needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best way to determine if this rifle is suitable for you is to handle it, if possible, and perhaps even test fire it at a range.