Savage Arms 19154 25 Walking Varminter Full Size 222 Rem 4+1 22″ Matte Black Heavy Barrel, Matte Black Carbon Steel Receiver Drilled & Tapped, Matte Black Fixed Varmint Synthetic Stock, Right Hand

About this product

The Savage Arms Model 25 Walking Varminter is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle chambered in .222 Remington, designed as a lightweight, accurate, and maneuverable tool for varmint and predator hunting over varied terrain. This isn't a target bench or safe queen—it's a field rifle engineered with features like a 22″ medium-contour barrel and a 60-degree bolt throw to make it practical for spot-and-stalk applications. As a descendant of Savage's rimfire small-bore actions, the Model 25 is fundamentally a scaled-up, centerfire version of that reliable system.

What is the Savage Arms Model 25 Walking Varminter used for?

This rifle is optimized for varminting, specifically groundhogs, prairie dogs, foxes, and coyotes at ranges typically under 250 yards. The direct answer is that its use case is the walking hunter who covers ground between stands and needs a rifle that balances precision with portability. The .222 Remington cartridge delivers minimal recoil and excellent precision for its class, while the 22″ barrel provides a full powder burn without the length and weight penalty of a 26″ varmint-weight profile. You won't be humping this up a mountain for sheep, but for rolling pasture fence lines or CRP fields, it's configured correctly.

How does the Savage Model 25 compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?

The Model 25 is better for pure varminting, while the Stevens 334 is a more general-purpose hunting platform. The direct answer is that the Stevens 334 in .243 Win offers greater versatility on larger game like deer at the cost of more recoil and less specialized ergonomics for rapid follow-up shots. The .222 Rem in the Model 25 generates about 7 ft-lbs of recoil energy, compared to roughly 14 ft-lbs from a .243 Win—a tangible difference over a 100-round prairie dog session. For dedicated small-game control, the Model 25's lighter recoil and purpose-built stock make it superior; for a one-rifle hunter who might also take deer, the Stevens 334 is the logical choice.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle's curb weight is approximately 6.8 pounds, and its overall length is 42 inches. That weight is with the synthetic stock and empty magazine installed, putting it nearly a pound lighter than many dedicated heavy-barrel varmint rigs. The 22-inch barrel contributes to the 42-inch overall length, keeping it compact enough for easy handling from a vehicle or in dense brush. The critical measurement for scoping is the 60-degree bolt throw, which gives ample clearance for a 50mm objective lens mounted in low rings without binding.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for someone seeking a long-range target rifle or a heavy-duty big game platform. The direct answer is that the .222 Remington cartridge, while exceptionally accurate, is ballistically limited compared to modern .22 centerfires like the .223 Remington or .22-250 Remington. If your primary goal is engaging varmints beyond 300 yards consistently, you'll want a faster-twist barrel and a cartridge with a higher ballistic coefficient. Similarly, the fixed varmint stock and lighter profile barrel are less conducive to the sustained fire of a prairie dog town compared to a bull-barrel rifle with a more rigid forend.

What's in the box?

You receive the barreled action installed in the synthetic stock, one 4-round detachable box magazine, and pre-installed Weaver-style scope bases. The direct answer is that Savage ships this as a bare-bones functional rifle, requiring the shooter to supply their own optic, rings, and ammunition. The inclusion of the scope bases is a notable convenience, saving you $30-$50 and the hassle of sourcing and torquing them. There is no hard case, lock, or cleaning kit included—this is a tool-grade packaging consistent with its price point.

Is the Savage Model 25 worth it at $673.99?

At this price, it represents good mechanical value for a dedicated, American-made varmint rifle. The direct answer is yes, for the shooter who specifically wants the handling characteristics of the Model 25 action paired with the mild .222 Remington. You are paying for the AccuTrigger system, which is genuinely excellent and adjustable between 2.5 and 3.25 pounds, and the proven pillar-bedding system. If your use case is broader or you prioritize ultimate long-range ballistics, a rifle like the Stevens 334 in a different caliber might offer more versatility for a similar or lower investment.