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Savage A22 Timber Tactical Review: Your New Semi-Auto Sharpshooter for Rimfire Precision
Table of Contents Savage A22
• Introduction to the Savage A22 Timber Tactical
• Available Variants and Modifications
• Caliber and Ballistics
• Technical Specifications
• Price and Market Position
• Effective Range and Hunting Applications
• Accessories and Customization Options
• Pros and Cons Based on Real User Feedback
• Why Shooters Choose the A22 Timber Tactical
• Interesting Facts About the A22 Timber Tactical
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🎯 Introduction to the Savage A22 Timber Tactical
The Savage A22 Timber Tactical is a semi-automatic rimfire rifle chambered in .22 LR, designed for shooters who demand precision, reliability, and rugged aesthetics. Built on Savage’s proven A-Series platform, this rifle blends tactical features with traditional craftsmanship, making it ideal for both target shooting and small game hunting.
Its OD Green laminate stock and spiral-fluted barrel give it a distinctive look, while the vertical grip and rear hook offer enhanced control for precision shooting. Whether you’re plinking at the range or stalking varmints in the field, the A22 Timber Tactical delivers consistent performance with every shot.
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🛠️ Available Variants and Modifications
The A22 Timber Tactical is part of Savage’s broader Timber Tactical lineup, which includes:
• A22 Timber Tactical (.22 LR, semi-auto) – The flagship model for fast follow-up shots and rimfire accuracy.
• B Series Timber Tactical (.22 LR, .22 WMR, .17 HMR, bolt-action) – For shooters who prefer manual cycling and expanded caliber options.
While the A22 itself is only available in .22 LR, the B Series offers more versatility for those seeking magnum rimfire performance. Both models share the same OD Green laminate stock, 20 MOA Picatinny rail, and threaded muzzle for suppressor compatibility.
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🔫 Caliber and Ballistics
The A22 Timber Tactical is chambered exclusively in .22 Long Rifle (LR) — a classic rimfire cartridge known for:
• Low recoil
• Affordable ammunition
• Effective range up to 150 yards
• Ideal for small game like rabbits, squirrels, and foxes
While not suited for large game, the .22 LR excels in target shooting, varmint control, and training scenarios.
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📊 Technical Specifications
Here’s a breakdown of the A22 Timber Tactical’s core specs:
• Action: Semi-automatic, blowback
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Barrel Length: 18” heavy profile, spiral-fluted
• Muzzle: Threaded 1/2x28 for suppressors or muzzle brakes
• Magazine: 10-round rotary, flush-fit
• Stock: OD Green laminate with vertical grip and rear hook
• Rail: 20 MOA Picatinny for optics
• Trigger: Savage AccuTrigger (adjustable)
• Weight: Approx. 7.5 lbs
• MSRP: $599 USD
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💰 Price and Market Position
At $599 MSRP, the A22 Timber Tactical sits in the mid-range of rimfire rifles. It competes with models like:
• Ruger 10/22 Tactical
• CZ 457 Varmint
• Tikka T1x
What sets the A22 apart is its semi-auto action, tactical ergonomics, and factory-installed features like the 20 MOA rail and threaded barrel — features often requiring aftermarket upgrades on competing rifles.
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📏 Effective Range and Hunting Applications
While the .22 LR cartridge limits long-range capabilities, the A22 Timber Tactical is highly effective within its intended range:
• Effective range: 50–150 yards
• Ideal targets: Rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, foxes
• Shooting disciplines: Rimfire competitions, steel challenge, plinking
Its semi-auto action allows for quick follow-up shots, making it especially useful for moving targets or multiple engagements in pest control scenarios.
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🧰 Accessories and Customization Options
The A22 Timber Tactical is built for modularity:
• Optics: 20 MOA Picatinny rail supports scopes, red dots, and night vision
• Suppressors: Threaded barrel accepts standard .22 LR suppressors
• Bipods: Dual forward sling studs allow for bipod mounting
• Slings: Rear hook and studs support tactical or hunting slings
• Triggers: AccuTrigger is adjustable, but aftermarket options are available
Note: As a rimfire rifle, chokes are not applicable — they’re used in shotguns, not rifles.
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👍 Pros and 👎 Cons Based on Real User Feedback
Pros:
• Smooth semi-auto cycling with minimal recoil
• Excellent out-of-the-box accuracy
• Durable laminate stock with tactical ergonomics
• Threaded barrel and optics rail included
• Reliable feeding from rotary magazine
Cons:
• Limited to .22 LR only
• Heavier than polymer-stocked competitors
• No iron sights included (optics required)
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🧠 Why Shooters Choose the A22 Timber Tactical
Hunters and sport shooters choose the A22 Timber Tactical for its blend of tradition and innovation. It’s a rifle that feels premium without breaking the bank, offering features typically reserved for higher-end platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a beginner looking for a reliable rimfire, the A22 delivers performance, style, and versatility.
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🤯 Interesting Facts About the A22 Timber Tactical
• The spiral-fluted barrel not only reduces weight but improves heat dissipation during rapid fire.
• Savage’s AccuTrigger system allows shooters to fine-tune trigger pull without gunsmithing.
• The OD Green laminate stock is both weather-resistant and visually striking — a nod to tactical aesthetics with field-ready durability.
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Final Thoughts
The Savage A22 Timber Tactical is more than just a rimfire rifle — it’s a precision tool for shooters who value accuracy, reliability, and modern design. With its semi-auto action, tactical features, and rugged build, it’s ready for the field, the range, or the competition line.
Savage Arms History: From Arthur Savage’s Vision to Modern Firearm Innovation
Savage Arms is one of the most iconic names in American firearms manufacturing. Founded in 1894 by Arthur Savage, the company has built a legacy of innovation, performance, and rugged reliability. From pioneering lever-action rifles to developing cutting-edge technologies like the AccuTrigger and AccuFit stock system, Savage Arms has consistently pushed the boundaries of what shooters expect from their firearms.
This article explores the full history of Savage Arms, highlighting its major milestones, legendary models, and the spirit of American ingenuity that continues to drive the brand forward.
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🔍 Table of Contents
1. Origins of Savage Arms and Arthur Savage
2. Early Innovations and Patents (1891–1900)
3. Military Contracts and Wartime Production
4. Expansion Through Acquisition
5. The Rise of the Model 99 and Bolt-Action Dominance
6. Savage Arms in the Modern Era
7. Key Innovations: AccuTrigger, AccuStock, AccuFit
8. Legacy and Impact on Hunting and Shooting Sports
9. Final Thoughts: Why Savage Arms Still Leads
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1. 🧠 Origins of Savage Arms and Arthur Savage
Arthur William Savage was born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1857. A true adventurer and inventor, he spent time exploring Australia, managing railroads in New York, and tinkering with mechanical designs. In 1894, he founded Savage Repeating Arms Company in Utica, New York, with a bold vision: to create reliable, affordable firearms for the everyday shooter.
His first major success was the Model 1895, a hammerless lever-action rifle with a rotary magazine — a revolutionary design that laid the foundation for the legendary Model 99.
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2. ⚙️ Early Innovations and Patents (1891–1900)
Savage Arms quickly became known for its engineering breakthroughs:
• 1891: Patent for a repeating rifle with a single-column magazine and lever action.
• 1893: Patent for a striker-fired, hammerless mechanism with a rigid stock-to-receiver bolt.
• 1894: Company officially formed in Utica, NY.
• 1895: Savage begins selling ammunition.
• 1899: Launch of the Model 1899, later renamed the Model 99, featuring a rotary magazine and chambered in .303 Savage.
These early years established Savage Arms as a serious competitor to Winchester and Remington.
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3. 🪖 Military Contracts and Wartime Production
Savage Arms played a vital role in both World Wars:
• 1915: Acquired by Driggs-Seabury Ordnance Co., began producing heavy war materials.
• 1938: Contracted to manufacture .45 caliber Thompson submachine guns.
• 1940–1941: Produced .30 and .50 caliber Browning machine guns and over 1.2 million Lee-Enfield rifles for British forces under Lend-Lease.
Savage’s wartime output demonstrated its manufacturing prowess and commitment to national defense.
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4. 🏭 Expansion Through Acquisition
Throughout the 20th century, Savage Arms expanded by acquiring several notable companies:
• 1920: Purchased Stevens Arms Co.
• 1930: Acquired A.H. Fox Gun Co., Davis-Warner Arms, and Crescent Arms Co.
These acquisitions allowed Savage to diversify into shotguns and rimfire rifles, broadening its appeal to hunters and sport shooters.
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5. 🔫 The Rise of the Model 99 and Bolt-Action Dominance
The Model 99 became one of the most beloved hunting rifles in North America, known for its:
• Rotary magazine with cartridge counter
• Chambering in proprietary rounds like .250 Savage and .300 Savage
• Sleek, hammerless design
In 1957, Savage introduced the Model 110, a bolt-action rifle that remains one of the most popular and affordable precision rifles on the market today. It was later refreshed in 1965 by designer Robert Greenleaf.
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6. 🔄 Savage Arms in the Modern Era
After a turbulent period of ownership changes and financial challenges, Savage Arms returned to private ownership in 1995 under Ronald Coburn. This marked a turning point, with renewed focus on innovation and quality.
Key milestones include:
• 1998: Final production of the Model 99
• 2002: Launch of the AccuTrigger, a user-adjustable trigger system
• 2009: Introduction of the AccuStock chassis system
• 2010: Release of the AXIS bolt-action rifle
• 2012: Launch of the Rascal, a youth-oriented .22 LR rifle
• 2015: Debut of the A17, the first semi-auto rifle to safely cycle .17 HMR
• 2017: Introduction of Modern Savage Rifles (MSRs)
• 2018: Release of AccuFit, a customizable stock system
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7. 🧬 Key Innovations: AccuTrigger, AccuStock, AccuFit
Savage Arms has led the industry with practical, shooter-focused innovations:
• AccuTrigger: Adjustable from 1.5 to 6 lbs, eliminates creep and overtravel.
• AccuStock: Aluminum bedding system for enhanced accuracy.
• AccuFit: Modular stock system with adjustable comb height and length of pull.
These features are now standard across many Savage models, giving shooters out-of-the-box precision without aftermarket upgrades.
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8. 🦌 Legacy and Impact on Hunting and Shooting Sports
Savage Arms rifles and shotguns are trusted by:
• Hunters: For big game, varmints, and upland birds
• Competitive shooters: In rimfire and long-range disciplines
• Youth and beginners: Thanks to models like the Rascal and AXIS
• Tactical users: With MSRs and precision bolt-actions
Savage’s commitment to real-world performance — not gimmicks — has earned it a loyal following across generations.
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9. 🏁 Final Thoughts: Why Savage Arms Still Leads
From Arthur Savage’s first patent to today’s cutting-edge rifle platforms, Savage Arms has remained true to its core values: innovation, performance, and accessibility. The company’s history is a testament to American ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Whether you’re holding a classic Model 99 or a modern MSR, you’re experiencing over a century of firearm evolution — purpose-built for shooters who demand results.
Savage Arms Timber Tactical Rimfire Rifles Review: A22 and B Series for Precision Shooting, Hunting, and Target Sports
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Savage Arms continues to redefine rimfire performance with the Timber Tactical series, featuring the A22 semi-automatic and B Series bolt-action rifles. Designed for shooters who demand precision, reliability, and modern ergonomics, these rifles blend traditional aesthetics with tactical functionality. Whether you’re a hunter, sport shooter, or rimfire enthusiast, the Timber Tactical lineup offers a compelling platform for accuracy and versatility.
This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know: specifications, calibers, performance, pricing, accessories, and real-world feedback tailored for serious shooters.
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Introduction to Savage Arms Timber Tactical Series
The Savage Arms Timber Tactical series is engineered for the precision rimfire shooter. These rifles are built to deliver consistent accuracy, ergonomic comfort, and rugged durability. The OD Green Laminate stock adds a tactical edge while preserving the warmth of traditional wood grain. With a vertical grip and rear hook, shooters benefit from enhanced control and stability — especially during benchrest or prone shooting.
Both models come equipped with Savage’s legendary AccuTrigger, a factory-installed 20 MOA Picatinny rail, and threaded barrels for suppressor compatibility. These features make the Timber Tactical series ideal for long-range rimfire shooting and small game hunting.
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A22 vs B Series: Action Types and Key Differences
The Timber Tactical series includes two distinct models:
• A22 Timber Tactical: A semi-automatic rimfire rifle designed for fast-paced shooting and training. It features a 10-round rotary magazine, 18-inch barrel, and adjustable AccuTrigger. This model is perfect for plinking, small game hunting, and dynamic shooting drills.
• B Series Timber Tactical: A bolt-action rifle built for precision and control. It includes a spiral-fluted heavy barrel, 10-round rotary magazine, and a crisp AccuTrigger tuned for accuracy. Ideal for benchrest shooting, varmint control, and long-range rimfire applications.
While the A22 offers speed and convenience, the B Series delivers tighter groupings and enhanced shot-to-shot consistency.
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Available Calibers and Ballistic Performance
Savage Arms offers the Timber Tactical rifles in three rimfire calibers:
• .22 LR (Long Rifle): Affordable, low recoil, and widely available. Effective range up to 100 yards. Ideal for target shooting and small game like squirrels and rabbits.
• .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire): Higher velocity and energy. Effective range up to 150 yards. Suitable for varmints and medium-sized game such as foxes.
• .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire): Flat trajectory and excellent accuracy. Effective range up to 200 yards. Perfect for long-range varmint hunting and precision shooting.
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Design Features and Ergonomics
The Timber Tactical rifles are built for comfort and control. Key design elements include:
• OD Green Laminate Stock: Combines tactical aesthetics with traditional wood durability. Resistant to weather and wear.
• Vertical Pistol Grip: Enhances trigger control and wrist alignment for precision shooting.
• Rear Hook: Allows for stable rear bag support during prone or benchrest shooting.
• Threaded Barrel (½x28): Compatible with suppressors and muzzle brakes.
• 20 MOA Picatinny Rail: Provides ample elevation adjustment for long-range optics.
• Dual Sling Studs: Enable attachment of bipods and slings for field use.
These ergonomic enhancements make the Timber Tactical series comfortable for extended shooting sessions and adaptable to various shooting styles.
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Accuracy and Range Performance
Both the A22 and B Series rifles are engineered for precision. The AccuTrigger allows shooters to adjust trigger pull weight for optimal control, ranging from 2.5 to 6 pounds. This reduces trigger creep and enhances shot consistency.
Field tests show:
• A22 Timber Tactical: Capable of ¾-inch groups at 50 meters with quality ammunition.
• B Series Timber Tactical: Delivers sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards with match-grade .17 HMR rounds.
The 20 MOA rail ensures that shooters won’t run out of elevation when stretching their range, making these rifles ideal for long-distance rimfire shooting.
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Accessories and Customization Options
Savage Arms equips the Timber Tactical rifles with several factory features, and they’re compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories:
Included Features:
• Threaded barrel for suppressor use
• Picatinny rail for optics
• Rotary magazine (10-round capacity)
• Sling studs for bipod or strap
Optional Accessories:
• Extended magazines
• High-power scopes and rings
• Suppressors (where legal)
• Custom stocks (thumbhole, tactical)
• Muzzle brakes
Note: These rifles do not use choke systems, as they are rifled barrel firearms, not shotguns.
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Pricing and Market Position
The Timber Tactical series is competitively priced in the mid-range rimfire market:
• A22 Timber Tactical: MSRP around $478 USD
• B Series Timber Tactical: MSRP around $599 USD
• TimberLite Variants (lighter stock): MSRP from $989 to $1,030 USD
These rifles offer excellent value for shooters seeking premium features without entering the high-end custom rifle market.
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Hunting and Target Shooting Applications
The Timber Tactical rifles are versatile tools for both field and range use:
Hunting Applications:
• Small game: rabbits, squirrels, raccoons
• Varmints: groundhogs, foxes, prairie dogs
• Medium game (with .22 WMR): coyotes
Target Shooting:
• Benchrest competitions
• Rimfire precision matches
• Youth and beginner training
• Plinking and recreational shooting
The Savage Arms Timber Tactical series is a standout choice for rimfire shooters who demand precision, reliability, and modern ergonomics. Whether you’re hunting varmints, training at the range, or competing in