Introduction
The world of bolt-action rifles is vast and varied, offering shooters a multitude of choices. For hunters and target enthusiasts alike, selecting the right rifle is a crucial decision, often influencing success and enjoyment in the field or at the range. Two popular contenders vying for attention are the CVA Cascade and the Savage 110. This article delves into a detailed comparison of these two rifles, providing an in-depth analysis to help you determine which one might be the perfect fit for your specific needs. We’ll examine their features, performance, and value proposition to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed choice.
Background of the Rifles
The CVA Cascade and the Savage 110 both represent different approaches to the modern bolt-action rifle. Understanding their origins and the principles behind their design is essential for a thorough comparison.
CVA Cascade
CVA, or Connecticut Valley Arms, is well-known for its muzzleloaders, which carved a significant niche in the black powder community. Over time, CVA expanded its product offerings and introduced the Cascade, a rifle that quickly garnered attention for its affordability and feature set. The Cascade aims to provide a dependable and accurate bolt-action rifle at a competitive price point, appealing to hunters and shooters seeking a reliable option without breaking the bank. It emphasizes a balance of performance and value, offering modern features in a sleek and functional package.
Savage 110
Savage Arms has a long and storied history in the firearms industry, dating back to the late nineteenth century. The company is known for its innovative approaches to rifle design, particularly its emphasis on accuracy. The Savage 110, introduced over a century ago, has become a staple in the hunting world. Its legacy is rooted in the company’s commitment to delivering accurate and reliable rifles, constantly evolving with advancements in materials and technology. The Savage 110 boasts a variety of configurations, representing a breadth of hunting and shooting needs. It’s a testament to the company’s ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market, making it a formidable competitor.
Detailed Comparison
Let’s move into a detailed examination of the features, considering the critical aspects that distinguish these two rifles.
Cost & Value
A critical aspect to consider is the price point. The CVA Cascade often presents itself as an attractive option due to its affordability. This doesn’t mean corners are cut on the quality of the internal components. CVA has managed to incorporate features that offer a great experience for the price, drawing in shooters looking for more value.
The Savage 110, while having a higher MSRP, allows for many more configurations. It is not uncommon to find varying price ranges based on features, modifications, and included accessories.
Features & Design
The action of a bolt-action rifle is arguably the heart of the firearm. The way the bolt functions – how smoothly it cycles, the ease of operation, and the overall feel – directly impacts the shooting experience.
Bolt Action
Both rifles utilize a bolt-action design, which is the typical design for hunters. The CVA Cascade utilizes a bolt that features a three-lug design, contributing to a short bolt throw and faster cycling. This design is designed to reduce the time between shots, which can be beneficial for follow-up shots in hunting situations. Bolt operation is generally smooth, and the overall feel is positive, especially given the price point.
The Savage 110 boasts the renowned AccuTrigger, a distinctive feature that allows for user-adjustable trigger pull weight. Savage rifles are celebrated for their accuracy, often attributed to their well-designed bolts. The bolt action generally feels solid and reliable.
Barrel
Moving on to the barrel, the component that directly impacts accuracy, we can see both manufacturers offer high-quality designs.
The CVA Cascade commonly employs a barrel of good quality for its price point, often featuring a threaded muzzle ready for a suppressor or muzzle brake. The contour can vary, but generally, the Cascade focuses on a balance of weight and performance, making it suitable for hunting and target shooting.
Savage often uses barrels known for their exceptional accuracy, often including button-rifled barrels. The Savage 110 barrels come in many different lengths and contours. The wide array of configurations allows the hunter to find the perfect fit.
Stock
The stock of the rifle is the interface between the shooter and the firearm. It must be comfortable to shoulder and maneuver effectively.
The CVA Cascade uses synthetic stocks with various finishes. These stocks are generally durable and weather-resistant, ideal for hunting in various environments. The ergonomics are usually well-considered, with a comfortable grip and often adjustable length-of-pull.
The Savage 110, meanwhile, has an expansive selection of stock materials. They offer synthetic stocks, wood stocks, and variations for tactical applications. The ergonomics will vary based on the chosen model, but Savage often emphasizes a comfortable and customizable fit.
Trigger
The trigger is a vital component for accuracy. A crisp, clean trigger pull can make the difference between a successful shot and a miss.
The CVA Cascade generally offers a decent trigger, though it may not match the performance of more expensive rifles. The trigger pull weight is generally adjustable, allowing shooters to customize it to their preference.
Savage’s AccuTrigger is a significant advantage. This unique trigger design allows for an adjustable pull weight and is often praised for its crisp, clean break. The AccuTrigger is a major selling point, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Magazine
The magazine design is another important factor.
The CVA Cascade typically features a detachable box magazine. The magazine is often robust and reliable, contributing to ease of loading and unloading. Magazine capacity varies depending on the caliber.
The Savage 110 has different magazine designs depending on the model, including detachable box magazines and internal magazines. The reliability of the magazine system is typically solid.
Scope Mounting Options
Both rifles give the shooter options for optics mounting.
The CVA Cascade usually features a drilled and tapped receiver, ready for mounting standard scope bases or rails. This provides a solid and reliable platform for attaching scopes.
The Savage 110 also typically has pre-drilled and tapped receivers. The Savage 110 offers a variety of scope mounting options, accommodating a wide range of scopes and mounting systems.
Other Features
Both rifles may feature other features worth noting. The CVA Cascade often comes with a Cerakote finish, providing enhanced durability and weather resistance. Savage 110 models come in various configurations with features such as adjustable cheekpieces.
Pros & Cons
Now, let’s examine some of the pros and cons associated with each rifle.
CVA Cascade
The CVA Cascade has several advantages. It’s very competitively priced, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. The rifle is known for its reliability, making it a solid choice for both hunting and target shooting. The availability of a threaded barrel is also a plus for those who desire to add muzzle devices or suppressors. It’s often easy to maintain and field strip.
On the downside, the trigger on the CVA Cascade may not be as refined as some of the higher-end options. While the rifle is accurate, it might not achieve the same level of precision as some other competitors.
Savage 110
The Savage 110 is renowned for its accuracy, owing in part to its AccuTrigger. The rifles offers a wide variety of configurations, catering to diverse needs and preferences. Many models are designed for long-range shooting.
The Savage 110 can be more expensive than the CVA Cascade, depending on the model. The variety of configurations could potentially overwhelm some buyers. While the Savage 110 offers a comprehensive array of calibers, some models may lack some of the more modern design features found in the CVA Cascade.
Which Rifle is Right for You?
Deciding which rifle is the right choice for you comes down to your specific needs and priorities. If you’re a hunter or shooter on a budget who prioritizes reliability and a modern feature set, the CVA Cascade is a strong contender. The threaded barrel adds versatility.
If you prioritize long-range accuracy, the Savage 110 and its AccuTrigger are a formidable option. The wide variety of configurations allows you to tailor the rifle to your exact specifications. Consider factors like your budget, the type of hunting or shooting you plan to do, and your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CVA Cascade and the Savage 110 each present compelling arguments for their place in your gun safe. The CVA Cascade delivers exceptional value with a focus on modern features. The Savage 110 is known for its accuracy. You should carefully evaluate your needs and priorities and consider each rifle’s strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a casual shooter, the information presented here should help you decide on the best rifle for your individual requirements. Do your own research, handle both rifles if possible, and consult with experienced shooters to ensure you make the best decision for your shooting endeavors. The best choice is the one that best fits your specific needs.
