Though the Savage is the primary smokeless MLer owned by those on this board, it is not the only game in town. It is the only smokeless MLer that is produced by a major firearms company that was willing to take the heat and risk to do so. They have produced a very accurate, very safe IMO, practical smokeless MLer that, like all commercially produced firearms, has compromises to be as flexible, fool-proof and safe for all who use, even the weakest link. Incidentally, contrary to what has recently been posted, I can think of no time that I felt or posted anything negative about "book" loads or those who use them. I can find many posts I've made well prior to that declaration that "I demeaned those who use book loads" that are supportive of book loads. I'll try not to digress
. There are other alternatives , each with their strengths and weaknesses. These fall into the categories of semi-custom guns and well made aftermarket barrels. Though I have seen posts that "such and such" a gun is the best smokeless MLer made(Savage most ofter cited), I don't see how such a decree can logically be made unless someone has significant experience with all available smokeless MLers and also knows what each person needs or wants in his/her particular situation. Is there 1 best car for everyone or for that matter, 1 best car? Some people want really long range(SMI and possibly what 6X6 has), others want compactness(Ultra lite Arms?), others want versitility, others want to shoot big, heavy bullets(Savage), others want extreme refinement and optimum range(some of the custom/semi-custom at a price),etc. Whats the best MLer - I don't know. Just when I see posts saying this is the "best" MLer, I think of these thoughts. I'm happy with my Savages , happy with my ever so consistent SMI, and happy with my Sav actioned RB'd 45 Pac Nor 45 which is extremely accurate and has low recoil. I don't think there is a best - just a bunch of very good and what may be best for one isn't for another. Just my thoughts.
Incidentally, this post wasn't in response to any post on this thread what-so-ever; rather, some I've read recently and wanted the reader who is considering a smokeless MLer to be sure to realize that there are choices. A Savage is an excellent choice for nearly every need/desire. Book loads will work great in it also
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