Introduction: A Closer Look at the .22 LR’s Appeal
The world of firearms offers a fascinating variety of options, from high-powered hunting rifles to compact pistols designed for self-defense. Amidst this landscape, the humble .22 Long Rifle, or .22 LR, stands out as a perennial favorite. It’s the quintessential plinking round, a gateway to shooting sports for new enthusiasts, and a cost-effective option for both recreational and training purposes. And when we talk about .22 LR rifles, a name that frequently comes up is Savage Arms. Their commitment to quality, affordability, and innovation has made them a trusted brand among shooters of all levels. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into one of their most popular models: the Savage Mk II FV-SR. This review will explore the Savage Mk II FV-SR, examining its features, evaluating its performance, and ultimately determining if it’s the right .22 LR rifle for you.
Introduction: A Closer Look at the .22 LR’s Appeal
The .22 LR cartridge has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century. Its enduring popularity stems from a unique combination of factors. The low recoil makes it exceptionally easy to handle, allowing shooters of all ages and experience levels to enjoy the sport. The ammunition is remarkably inexpensive compared to other centerfire cartridges, making it ideal for extended range sessions and practicing fundamentals without breaking the bank. The versatility of the .22 LR is another key factor; it’s used for everything from casual target shooting and plinking to small game hunting and training new shooters. It is indeed a great cartridge that promotes the enjoyment of shooting for all skill levels.
Unveiling the Savage Mk II FV-SR: What Makes It Tick?
The Savage Mk II FV-SR is a bolt-action .22 LR rifle that has quickly become a favorite among shooters seeking accuracy, affordability, and a compact platform. The “FV-SR” in its name hints at its key features: “FV” denoting a varmint barrel and “SR” signifying “Suppressor Ready”. The Savage Mk II FV-SR offers a compelling package for those seeking a reliable and accurate .22 LR rifle.
Examining the Action and Barrel: Core Components of Accuracy
At the heart of the Savage Mk II FV-SR lies its bolt-action system. Bolt-action rifles are renowned for their inherent accuracy and reliability. The positive locking mechanism and consistent cartridge seating contribute to tight groupings, a feature that makes the Savage Mk II FV-SR a great choice for precision shooting. The bolt-action also contributes to the rifle’s inherent safety, as it forces the user to manually cycle each round, which is an excellent teaching tool for new shooters.
The rifle boasts a short, heavy barrel, a key factor in its FV-SR designation. This short barrel provides several advantages. First, it makes the rifle exceptionally maneuverable. The compact design is well-suited for handling in tight spaces and when carrying the rifle in the field. Second, a shorter barrel increases rigidity, which can contribute to enhanced accuracy. The barrel of the Savage Mk II FV-SR is also threaded at the muzzle, making it ready for the addition of a suppressor or other muzzle devices. This is especially attractive for shooters in areas where suppressors are legal, as it significantly reduces the firearm’s noise signature, and recoil, for more enjoyable and comfortable shooting. The barrel also utilizes a traditional button rifling process.
Delving into the Stock: Comfort and Control
The Savage Mk II FV-SR is equipped with a synthetic stock. This stock is designed for both durability and functionality. The synthetic material is resistant to weather and the occasional bump or scratch that comes with field use. The stock’s ergonomics are designed to provide a comfortable shooting experience. The design of the stock, while being a standard synthetic configuration, has a good feel in hand. Overall the rifle can be comfortably and consistently shouldered.
Appreciating the Trigger: The AccuTrigger Advantage
One of the standout features of the Savage Mk II FV-SR is its AccuTrigger system. This user-adjustable trigger is a significant enhancement to any .22 LR rifle. The AccuTrigger features a unique safety mechanism that helps prevent accidental discharges while providing a crisp, clean trigger pull. The trigger pull weight is easily adjustable, allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger to their preferences. The AccuTrigger system is a real asset, providing a smooth and predictable trigger break. This crispness can greatly contribute to improved accuracy by reducing the chance of pulling the shot during trigger actuation.
Understanding the Magazine and Sights: Essential Details
The Savage Mk II FV-SR typically comes with a detachable 5- or 10-round magazine. The magazine design is straightforward and reliable. The magazine is easy to load, and the rifle feeds reliably. While the factory magazine functions reliably, shooters may opt for aftermarket magazines to increase capacity for more extended range sessions.
Regarding sights, the Savage Mk II FV-SR does not come with iron sights. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, making it easy to mount a scope or red dot optic. This omission allows the shooter to select an optic that suits their needs and preferences.
Performance: Putting the Savage Mk II FV-SR to the Test
The true test of any firearm is its performance. The Savage Mk II FV-SR excels in this regard. The rifle delivers impressive accuracy for its price point. During testing, groups consistently measured well under an inch at 50 yards using a variety of .22 LR ammunition. At 100 yards, the rifle continued to impress, with groups opening up but still remaining respectable. The inherent accuracy of the rifle, coupled with the smooth AccuTrigger, made it a joy to shoot.
The recoil, as expected with a .22 LR rifle, is minimal. This makes the rifle suitable for shooters of all ages and sizes, including newer shooters looking to build confidence. The rifle’s handling is also excellent. The short barrel and overall compact design make the Savage Mk II FV-SR a very easy rifle to maneuver and shoot.
Reliability during testing was excellent. The rifle consistently fed, fired, and ejected rounds without any issues. The bolt cycled smoothly, and the magazine fed rounds reliably.
The Pros and Cons: Weighing the Features
Advantages:
The accuracy of the Savage Mk II FV-SR is a standout feature. The rifle consistently delivers tight groups, making it a fun and rewarding rifle to shoot. The affordability of the rifle also makes it an excellent value, offering impressive performance without breaking the bank. The AccuTrigger system is another major advantage, providing a smooth and adjustable trigger pull that contributes to the rifle’s accuracy. The suppressor-ready barrel is a desirable feature for shooters who want to reduce the noise and recoil of their rifle. The versatile nature of the rifle is also a selling point: it can be used for plinking, target practice, and small game hunting.
Disadvantages:
Some shooters may find the synthetic stock less aesthetically pleasing than a wood stock. While the synthetic stock is durable and functional, it lacks the traditional feel of a wooden stock.
Comparisons: Facing Off Against the Competition
In the competitive market of .22 LR rifles, the Savage Mk II FV-SR faces strong competition. One of its most popular competitors is the Ruger 10/22. The 10/22 has earned a strong reputation for reliability and versatility. It is a semi-automatic, which makes it ideal for rapid firing. However, the Savage Mk II FV-SR offers a bolt-action experience that many shooters prefer for its inherent accuracy and for the safety benefits. The Savage Mk II FV-SR also competes against the Marlin XT-22. The Marlin XT-22, like the Savage, is a bolt-action rifle. Both of these rifles are reliable, accurate, and affordable, but the Savage Mk II FV-SR tends to have an edge in terms of AccuTrigger and overall accuracy at a competitive price point.
Value Assessment and Overall Verdict
The Savage Mk II FV-SR provides an exceptional value for its price. The combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability makes it a compelling option for shooters of all levels. The AccuTrigger, threaded barrel, and overall build quality further enhance its value. For those seeking an accurate and reliable .22 LR rifle without spending a fortune, the Savage Mk II FV-SR is an excellent choice. It is a great rifle for both new and experienced shooters alike.
This rifle is well suited to recreational plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting. Its compact size and threaded barrel make it suitable for use with a suppressor. The rifle is ideally suited for shooters looking for a budget-friendly, yet accurate rifle, that allows for precise shooting.
The Savage Mk II FV-SR offers a compelling package of features, performance, and value. Its bolt-action design, AccuTrigger system, and threaded barrel make it an accurate and versatile rifle. Its affordability further adds to its appeal. If you’re in the market for a .22 LR rifle that delivers on performance without emptying your wallet, the Savage Mk II FV-SR is certainly worth considering.
Conclusion: A Budget-Friendly Champion
In conclusion, the Savage Mk II FV-SR is a remarkable .22 LR rifle that offers exceptional value for its price. It excels in accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. The AccuTrigger, threaded barrel, and overall build quality make it a compelling choice for shooters. The Savage Mk II FV-SR deserves its reputation as a top-tier option for those seeking a high-performing .22 LR rifle. Consider adding the Savage Mk II FV-SR to your collection today.
