A Savage Take on the AR: The MSR10 Long Range .308—SHOT Show 2017

in Authors, Clay Martin, SHOT Show 2017

Updated: January 28, 2017 BY Clay Martin

To learn more, visit https://www.savagearms.com/msr/.

To purchase a Savage MSR on GunsAmerica.com, click this link https://www.gunsamerica.com/Search.aspx?T=Savage%20MSR.

Overview

Savage has decided to step into the AR market with its new MSR line (made up of .223 and .308 variants). Savage has always been one of the most underrated rifle brands in my opinion, delivering more accuracy per dollar than anyone else. My first rifle was actually a Savage, a 110 model in .30-06, that delivered half-MOA accuracy out of the box. With Savage in the AR game now, the AR world may get stood on its head.

A Savage Take on the AR: The MSR10 Long Range .308—SHOT Show 2017

The new MSR10 series from Savage brings shooters a .308 Win. or 6.5 Creedmoor AR-pattern rifle. Image courtesy of Savage Arms.

The new MSR appears to be a rock-solid AR-style rifle for Savage fans.

Specs

Chambering: .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor
Barrel: 20 inch
OA Length: 48 5/8th inch
Stock: Magpul
Sights: N/A
Action: Semi-auto
Finish: Hard Anodized
MSRP: $2,284.00

Impression

The model we shot at range day was the Savage MSR10 Long Range. Available in .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor, this is one of the few semi-auto guns we saw released in the 6.5mm cartridge. The MSR10LR comes with a host of features, and is a side-charger for manipulating the bolt. I am not huge on the side chargers, but it has become very popular in recent years. It is not something you normally see at this price point either.

Range day is no place to truly test accuracy, but Savage assures us this will be where they make their name among ARs. 5R rifling, Melonited barrels, and a long history of making AR barrels for other manufacturers promise to bring tight groups. This is what Savage is famous for; one ragged hole at an affordable price.

The author had a chance to try out the MSR10LR on the range at SHOT Show 2017 and is excited about doing a full test on it.

We will have to wait and see, but we should be doing a full review on this model in short order. I cannot imagine Savage releasing an inaccurate gun in this AR market. Not only would that be an insult to all the Savage loyalists, but it would torpedo sales in a savagely competitive segment of the firearms industry.

Price & Availability

The MSR10 LR is not available on the market yet, but should be in the coming months. It is priced at $2,284. If it can live up to Savage’s reputation for reliability and accuracy, then it will definitely be a winner and a real option for those looking for a big-bore MSR.