In looking for that magic load for my 223 I tried some IMR 4198 (22grains) with some 40 grain Sierra hpfb with 205m primers. The book has that listed as a minium load. Should get to the range saturday to try them out along with two other loads. Might have to try it in the 204 as well, sounds like you have found the perfect load for your savage.

may have IMR loads in this issue and I think that IMR 4198 is one of the powders shown in their reloading charts. I can't remember what page it is on and I am at work and the magazine is at home.