Anyone read the comparison test(?) done in the most recent issue of Shooting Times? They had 18 CF rifles, 3 each of Remington BDL, CZ 550, Ruger 77 Hawkeye, Browning X-Bolt, Savage M114 American, and Winchester M70. All were the standard blue/walnut versions (no entry level guns) and all were chambered for 270 Win. Interesting read but I was surprised by the results, with the Winchester coming out on top. What didn't surprise was that the Savage was the most accurate of the bunch. Recommended!
Shooting Times Comparo
- Thread starter reomack
- Start date
bearkilr
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Nowhere, ......just past the middle
Why are the results surprising? I haven't read the article, can't find it online yet, but out of the ones listed the new M70 has the most classic lines, best fit and finish, nicest wood, great bluing and obviously decent enough accuracy for hunting, which all the aforementioned guns are to be used for. As usual, the only plus point for Savage probably comes in the accuracy department. Correct me if I'm wrong.
There was a reason Winchester folded a few years back. By the end, they were producing rifles of variable quality and accuracy because of old, worn equipment and machinery. From all reports the new guns are of much higher quality.
Most companies go through this when the bean counters start to rule the roost over the engineers. "Make it cheaper, make it cheaper" is their battle cry. And eventually the product becomes a little shoddy. Then they either smarten up and pull up their socks or become the victim of an economic take over and start selling made in China goods. So it goes. - dan
