Any experience with either? I shot the Savage a few days ago and it's got me to wanting one but I had an AR-50 years ago and really liked it too. They're about the same money so that's not an issue, just wondering if somebody had experience with either or both. Thanks

savage .. without a doubt

Savage...~$1300...Armalite...~$2200. I have NO EXPERIENCE with the Armalite platform, but they look like they should shoot very well...PLENTY of experience with Savage going back to the early 60's.

I think it is about the individual rifle rather than the brand as far a accuracy is concerned. Some barrels are more accurate than others and it depends on WHICH brand the barrel is on as to which is the more accurate.

That being said, I like Savage rifles, I have a passle of receivers and barrels...I LIKE the Savage receiver platform very much...I've only had a few Savage barrels that didn't do less than 3/4" from the gitgo and those just needed some tuning to get down below 1/2".

I'm looking a buying a one of the Sav SA Target receiver from Buds to build a 375 Lapua just to shoot those long HI-BC 350 gr VLD bullets...or if I get even MORE chintzy and tight azzed, just order a 36" 375 cal barrel from McGowen or PacNor and screw it onto one of my Sav SA/LA's receivers(most likely to happen ).

Just doing a new barrel will cost about half what a new rifle costs or just about the same as a receiver alone...including the reamer and dies.

You could do the same for the 338 Lapua if you already have a Savage rifle. I used a safe end 1/4" round carbide router bit to opened up a magnum bolt face to fit a Rigby/Lapua case for my 50 cal Rigby project, but now you can just order a Lapua bolt head OR have a magnum head ground to fit...

That's the beauty of the Savage receiver platform...almost infinite customizing possibilities...and relatively cheap barrel swapping producing a highly accurate, relatively inexpensive rifle that will compete with the most expensive custom made shooters or give you years of pleasure taking game or popping sageratz at long range.

Luck

quote:

Originally posted by FOOBAR:
Savage...~$1300...Armalite...~$2200.

I was looking at the BA version, MSRP $2267. Thanks for the replies, I was leaning toward the Savage and this may seal the deal.

Take a look at the new 338 Norma Magnum before you buy. I shot rifles in both chamberings at Media Day at The Range last Monday prior to the four days of the SHOT Show. The chronographs thought there was less than 30fps difference using 28" barrels and factory ammunition.

If it were me, I would build a 338 Edge. Actually, that IS what I will be doing as soon as my gunsmith finishes up my little Mauser
Guild Rifle styled stalking rifle.
You could buy a Savage 112 in a single shot configuration and have it rebarreled for about $450. Add $30 for a magnum bolt head, and enjoy the benefits of a sub-2lb trigger.

Rich