As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer who’s spent over a decade traversing the mountains of the American West, I’m always on the lookout for gear that balances performance with packability. The Savage 110 Ultralight has been generating a lot of buzz, and for good reason. This rifle promises to deliver Savage’s renowned accuracy in a remarkably lightweight package. I’ve put several configurations through their paces, from the 6.5 PRC to the classic 308, and in this review, I’ll break down everything you need to know – from performance and features to comparisons with other Savage models like the Timberline – to help you decide if the Savage 110 Ultralight is the right rifle for your next adventure.
The core appeal of the Savage Arms 110 Ultralight lies in its weight reduction. Savage achieved this through a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer stock, a fluted bolt, and a streamlined barrel. This isn’t just marketing hype; the difference is noticeable, especially on long, arduous hunts. Compared to traditional hunting rifles, you’re looking at a significant weight savings – often in the neighborhood of a pound or more. But weight isn’t everything. Savage hasn’t sacrificed accuracy or durability to achieve this reduction, a critical factor for any serious hunter. The AccuTrigger, a hallmark of Savage rifles, is also included, providing a crisp and consistent pull.
One of the biggest strengths of the Savage 110 Ultralight is the sheer variety of calibers offered. Choosing the right caliber depends heavily on your intended game and hunting style. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:
Savage offers several lines of rifles geared towards hunters, and it’s easy to get them confused. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Savage Timberline | Savage High Country | Savage 110 Ultralight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Material | Vortex Composite | Adjustable Polymer | Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer |
| Weight (approx.) | 7.5 – 8.5 lbs | 7 – 8 lbs | 6.5 – 7.5 lbs |
| Price (approx.) | $1,200 - $1,500 | $1,000 - $1,300 | $1,300 - $1,700 |
| Focus | All-weather performance, durability | Adjustability, versatility | Lightweight, packability |
The Savage Timberline review often praises its ruggedness and all-weather capabilities. The High Country offers a good balance of features and price. However, if your primary concern is minimizing weight for backcountry hunts, the Savage 110 Ultralight is the clear winner. The savage 110 timberline review shows it's a great all-around rifle, but doesn't prioritize weight savings like the Ultralight.
I’ve spent considerable time behind the Savage 110 Ultralight in various calibers, and I’ve been consistently impressed with its accuracy. Using quality ammunition, I’ve consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 100 yards. At longer ranges, the rifle’s performance is still excellent, with minimal drop and manageable wind drift (especially with the 6.5 PRC). The AccuTrigger is a significant contributor to this accuracy, allowing for a clean and precise trigger pull. I’ve found the rifle to be reliable in a variety of conditions, from scorching desert heat to cold mountain snow.
However, it’s important to note that the factory stock, while lightweight, can be a bit flexible. For those seeking maximum precision, a stock upgrade might be worthwhile. I’ve seen good results with aftermarket stocks from companies like McMillan and Manners. A solid scope base is also crucial for maintaining accuracy, and I recommend investing in a quality base and rings.
While the Savage 110 Ultralight is an excellent rifle, it’s not without its potential drawbacks. Some users have reported issues with the factory muzzle brake, finding it to be ineffective or even causing excessive recoil. Replacing the muzzle brake with a more effective model can resolve this issue. Another potential concern is the relatively lightweight stock, which, as mentioned earlier, can flex under extreme conditions. Finally, some users have reported minor feeding issues with certain types of ammunition. Properly breaking in the rifle and using high-quality ammunition can often mitigate these issues.
Regarding the Savage 110 Ultralight problems, many are easily addressed with aftermarket parts or proper maintenance. Checking the Savage 110 action review can also provide insights into potential long-term durability concerns.
The Savage 110 Ultralight price typically ranges from $1,300 to $1,700, depending on the caliber and configuration. This puts it in a competitive price range for a high-quality hunting rifle. Considering its lightweight design, excellent accuracy, and wide range of caliber options, I believe the Savage 110 Ultralight offers excellent value for the money. It’s particularly well-suited for hunters who prioritize packability and are willing to invest in quality optics and accessories.
The Savage 110 Ultralight is a fantastic rifle for hunters who demand performance without the added weight. Whether you’re pursuing elk in the backcountry or deer in the eastern woods, this rifle is capable of delivering exceptional accuracy and reliability. I highly recommend considering the 6.5 PRC or 6.5 Creedmoor for their versatility and long-range capabilities. Remember to invest in quality optics, a solid scope base, and potentially a stock upgrade to maximize the rifle’s potential. And as always, practice safe gun handling and follow the principles of Leave No Trace (leavenotrace.org) when enjoying the great outdoors. For more information on hunting regulations and safety, consult your state’s wildlife agency and the National Park Service (nps.gov).