Introduction
The call of the long range has never been louder. Hunters are pushing the boundaries of effective distance, and target shooters are constantly striving for tighter groups at incredible ranges. This passion has fueled a surge in innovation and popularity within the shooting community, and at the forefront of this movement is the 6.5 Precision Rifle Cartridge, or 6.5 PRC. This potent cartridge, with its exceptional ballistic characteristics, has captured the attention of shooters seeking accuracy, power, and the ability to confidently engage targets at extended distances.
Today, we’re turning our attention to a rifle platform that has stood the test of time: the Savage 110. Savage Arms has built a reputation for delivering dependable and accurate rifles at accessible price points. The Savage 110, a bolt-action rifle known for its user-friendly features, particularly the adjustable AccuTrigger, has long been a favorite among both hunters and shooters.
In this in-depth review, we’ll be exploring the Savage 110, specifically chambered in the formidable 6.5 PRC. Our aim is to meticulously examine this combination, dissecting its features, putting it through rigorous performance tests, assessing its accuracy, and ultimately determining its overall value proposition. This article aims to help you, the reader, decide if the Savage 110 6.5 PRC is the right tool to meet your long-range shooting or hunting needs. Prepare to delve into the details and discover what makes this rifle a compelling contender.
Understanding the Savage 110 Family
The Savage 110 platform boasts a rich history, tracing back to its origins and evolving over decades to meet the changing needs of shooters and hunters. The core design principles of the Savage 110, which focused on accuracy and affordability, have remained consistent throughout its evolution, making it one of the most recognizable and successful rifle designs in modern times.
The key to the Savage 110’s enduring appeal lies in its clever engineering and innovative features. Among these, the AccuTrigger is perhaps the most celebrated. This trigger system is user-adjustable, allowing shooters to customize the trigger pull weight to their preference. The AccuTrigger, with its inherent safety mechanism, allows for a crisp, clean break, contributing significantly to improved accuracy.
Many Savage 110 models, depending on the specific variant, also feature the AccuStock or AccuFit systems. The AccuStock system provides a bedding platform integrated into the stock, enhancing the consistency of the action and further promoting accuracy. The AccuFit system, when included, offers the ability to adjust the length of pull and comb height of the stock, allowing for a truly customized fit for the shooter, improving comfort and cheek weld.
The bolt design itself also contributes to the rifle’s performance. Savage 110 rifles often feature a floating bolt head, which aligns the bolt with the bore axis during firing. This feature promotes improved accuracy by reducing stress on the barrel. Bolt actions are typically smooth and offer reliable function.
The Savage 110 platform is offered in a multitude of configurations and calibers. From sporter models perfect for hunting to more specialized long-range target rifles, Savage has diversified the 110 lineup to meet the unique needs of various types of shooters. The Savage 110 caters to a broad range of budgets and shooting disciplines, making it a popular choice for both seasoned veterans and newcomers alike.
Decoding the 6.5 PRC Cartridge
To truly understand the Savage 110 6.5 PRC, we need to first dissect the cartridge that gives this rifle its exceptional capabilities. The 6.5 PRC was born from a desire to create a high-performance, long-range cartridge that would excel in both hunting and target shooting applications. Hornady, a leading ammunition manufacturer, played a crucial role in the development of this round, carefully engineering it for optimal performance.
The 6.5 PRC has rapidly grown in popularity, and for good reason. Its design allows for the efficient use of high ballistic coefficient (BC) bullets, known for their ability to retain velocity and resist wind drift over long distances. These characteristics make the 6.5 PRC ideally suited for long-range work, where minimizing bullet drop and maximizing downrange energy are paramount.
When it comes to ballistics, the 6.5 PRC offers impressive numbers. Muzzle velocities can easily reach or exceed 2,900 feet per second (fps) with many popular bullet weights. This velocity translates to a flatter trajectory, reducing the need for significant elevation adjustments at extended ranges. This flatter trajectory also minimizes wind drift, a critical factor when engaging targets at distances where even a slight breeze can move a bullet significantly off course.
The high ballistic coefficient of many 6.5 PRC bullets allows them to maintain velocity downrange, delivering ample energy on impact. Depending on the bullet weight and design, the 6.5 PRC is capable of delivering sufficient energy for effective hunting of medium to large game at impressive distances.
When considering ranges, the effective hunting range for the 6.5 PRC can easily reach beyond 500 yards, and in the hands of a skilled shooter, potentially farther. For target shooting, the 6.5 PRC is equally at home, with its accuracy and ballistics enabling consistent hits at ranges of 1,000 yards or even further.
Compared to other cartridges, the 6.5 PRC stands out for its blend of performance and reasonable recoil. The recoil is generally manageable, making the 6.5 PRC a comfortable cartridge to shoot for extended periods.
Examining the Specific Savage 110 Model
The specific model under review is the Savage 110, offering a blend of features designed to optimize performance. The barrel length, the heart of accuracy, plays a vital role in this rifle’s capabilities. Coupled with the appropriate twist rate for the 6.5 PRC, the barrel is optimized to stabilize the high-BC bullets. This combination creates a system designed for precision shooting.
The stock, a crucial part of the rifle’s ergonomics, offers a comfortable and stable platform for the shooter. The material, often synthetic in this class of rifle, provides weather resistance and a stable foundation. The stock design also influences how the rifle feels and handles. The ergonomics, or the way the rifle interfaces with the shooter, are a key factor in consistent shooting. The design influences how naturally the shooter can acquire a target and maintain a consistent cheek weld.
The action, the central mechanism of the rifle, is robust and reliable. Its role is to reliably cycle cartridges and handle the high pressures generated by the 6.5 PRC. The smooth function of the bolt is critical for follow-up shots and maintaining focus during target engagements.
The AccuTrigger is a defining feature of the Savage 110. The ability to adjust the trigger pull to the shooter’s preference allows for enhanced precision. A lighter, crisper trigger pull typically results in improved accuracy, as it minimizes the chances of disturbing the rifle’s aim during the shot. The user-adjustable nature of the AccuTrigger is a significant advantage for the Savage 110.
The overall length and weight are considerations for portability and balance. While a long-range rifle may be a bit heavier than a traditional hunting rifle, the Savage 110 strikes a balance between portability and stability.
The finish of the rifle’s metal components offers protection from the elements and adds to its overall aesthetic appeal. Whether it’s the classic blued finish or the more modern corrosion-resistant options, the finish plays a crucial role in protecting the rifle from environmental damage.
Putting the Savage 110 6.5 PRC to the Test: Performance on the Range
For this review, the Savage 110 6.5 PRC was equipped with a high-quality riflescope. The optic’s features, such as adjustable magnification and precise adjustments, are critical for long-range engagements. The correct mount ensures the scope is firmly attached and aligned with the barrel.
The ammunition used during testing was carefully selected. Various brands of 6.5 PRC ammunition with different bullet weights were used to assess the rifle’s performance across a range of loads. This included loads tailored for both hunting and target shooting applications.
Accuracy testing involved shooting groups at various distances, generally starting at 100 yards and extending to 300 yards or beyond, depending on the range facilities. Group size, the measure of the distance between the center of the shot impacts, provided a valuable indicator of the rifle’s precision. Target photos and measurements documented the consistency of the Savage 110 6.5 PRC.
The testing also noted the impact of the conditions, such as wind, on the groups. During this, the ability to make consistent hits under different circumstances speaks to the rifle’s qualities. The test conditions were generally done with a solid rest, be it a benchrest or other stable platform, minimizing the influence of the shooter’s body on the results.
The Savage 110 6.5 PRC proved to be a consistent performer during testing. The AccuTrigger, when adjusted to a crisp and light pull, facilitated precise shot placement.
The recoil of the 6.5 PRC, while present, was manageable. The well-designed stock contributed to a comfortable shooting experience, even during extended range sessions.
The results of the testing speak for themselves, the Savage 110 6.5 PRC delivered accuracy figures that meet or exceed expectations for a rifle in its class. Consistent sub-MOA (minute of angle) groups were achievable at 100 yards with selected ammunition, and the rifle maintained a respectable degree of precision at longer distances.
Considering Hunting Applications
The Savage 110 6.5 PRC is a capable hunting rifle. The inherent accuracy of the rifle, combined with the 6.5 PRC’s ballistic performance, makes it suitable for ethical hunting of medium to large game animals at extended ranges.
When using the Savage 110 6.5 PRC for hunting, choosing the correct ammunition is critical. Selecting a hunting bullet designed for controlled expansion and adequate penetration is essential for a quick and humane harvest. Consideration must be given to bullet construction and weight in relation to the game being hunted.
The effective hunting range for the Savage 110 6.5 PRC is significant. With proper shot placement and ammunition selection, hunters can confidently take game at ranges exceeding 500 yards. It’s always crucial to know your personal limitations and the limitations of your equipment.
Beyond ballistics, practical considerations also come into play. The rifle’s weight and balance, its ergonomic features, and its reliability are essential in the field. The Savage 110 6.5 PRC is a relatively manageable rifle to carry, and its robust construction provides confidence in harsh conditions.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Savage 110 6.5 PRC has a number of significant advantages that contribute to its appeal. Firstly, the accuracy is noteworthy. This rifle is capable of delivering exceptional groups, thanks to the AccuTrigger, barrel, and the overall quality of the design. Second, the affordability factor. The Savage 110 offers remarkable value for money compared to more expensive options in the same category. Third, the AccuTrigger is a major advantage.
There are some potential drawbacks to consider. The stock, while functional, may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some higher-end options, depending on the specific model.
Examining Value and Comparing to Competitors
The Savage 110 6.5 PRC is often found at a very competitive price point. Its accessibility makes it an excellent option for those entering the world of long-range shooting or hunting on a budget.
When considering the value of the Savage 110 6.5 PRC, it’s important to compare it to other rifles. Rifles such as the Tikka T3x, Bergara B-14, and Ruger American series all offer strong competition in the same segment. While some of these rifles may offer slightly better stock options, the Savage 110 typically holds its own in terms of accuracy and features.
The Savage 110 6.5 PRC provides a remarkable balance of performance and price. Considering the accuracy, the customizable trigger, and the cartridge’s inherent capabilities, the Savage 110 provides a significant amount of value.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In conclusion, the Savage 110 6.5 PRC is a strong contender in the long-range shooting and hunting market. The rifle’s accuracy, thanks to the AccuTrigger and well-designed barrel, is a significant advantage. The cartridge’s impressive ballistics, coupled with the rifle’s relatively affordable price, makes it a compelling package for a range of users.
This rifle is well-suited for individuals interested in both target shooting and hunting, including those new to long-range shooting or those who have limited funds. It offers a solid foundation for building a long-range setup.
We recommend the Savage 110 6.5 PRC without reservation. Its accuracy, reliability, and value make it a strong choice for a wide range of shooters and hunters.
For those seeking a slightly more advanced platform, or who prioritize aesthetics, the higher-end models from some of the competitors may be considered, but for overall value, the Savage 110 is an outstanding selection.
