Savage Arms 32497 110 Ridge Hunter 5.56 NATO 10+1 18″ Heavy Barrel, Flat Dark Gray Adj LOP Synthetic Stock, Right Hand
About this product
What is the Savage Arms 32497 110 Ridge Hunter? It's a bolt-action rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO with an 18-inch heavy barrel and adjustable-length synthetic stock designed for medium-range hunting applications where precision matters. This platform bridges the gap between traditional hunting rifles and modern sporting configurations, offering reliable performance without the weight penalty of heavier calibers. With its flat dark gray finish and right-hand orientation, it maintains Savage's reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy at a competitive price point.
What is the Savage Arms 110 Ridge Hunter used for?
The 110 Ridge Hunter is optimized for deer and varmint hunting at distances up to 300 yards where 5.56 NATO retains sufficient energy for ethical kills. The 18-inch heavy barrel provides consistent harmonics for sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade ammunition, while the adjustable LOP stock accommodates various shooter sizes and clothing layers. I'd recommend this specifically for hunters transitioning from AR-platform rifles who want familiar ballistics in a more precise package.
How does the 110 Ridge Hunter compare to the Stevens 334?
The Ridge Hunter outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in recoil management but sacrifices long-range energy retention. Where the Stevens 334 delivers 2,800 ft-lbs at the muzzle compared to the 5.56's 1,300 ft-lbs, the Ridge Hunter produces 40% less recoil energy, making it better for extended shooting sessions. The adjustable LOP stock also gives it an ergonomic advantage over the fixed-stock Stevens for growing hunters or those sharing the rifle between users.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 7.8 pounds with an overall length of 41.5 inches at maximum stock extension. The barrel's muzzle diameter measures 0.750 inches at the thread protector, tapering to 1.1 inches at the chamber end. Collapsed length drops to 38.25 inches, making it manageable in tight blinds or vehicle racks.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this rifle if you need terminal performance beyond 400 yards or hunt larger game like elk where 5.56 NATO lacks adequate penetration. The 10-round magazine capacity also makes it unsuitable for jurisdictions requiring lower limits, unlike the Stevens 334 in .243 Win which often ships with 4-round magazines. Heavy-barrel enthusiasts wanting benchrest-level weight might prefer custom options weighing 12+ pounds for maximum stability.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with one 10-round AccuStock magazine, a thread protector for the 1/2x28 muzzle threads, and basic safety documentation. Notably absent are optic mounting solutions—expect to spend $50-150 on rails or rings. The synthetic stock includes three spacers for LOP adjustment from 13.5 to 14.75 inches.
Is the Savage 110 Ridge Hunter worth it at $801.99?
At this price, it delivers exceptional value for hunters needing adaptable ballistics without custom gunsmithing. The action alone justifies the cost with Savage's patented barrel nut system allowing easy rebarreling compared to $300+ gunsmithing fees on Remington 700 platforms. Consider it over budget alternatives when you need proven accuracy without the $1,200+ price tag of competitor models with similar features.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 18-inch heavy barrel maintains 0.8 MOA accuracy with match ammo—better than most factory rifles
- Adjustable LOP spans 1.25 inches (13.5-14.75") for proper fit across body types
- Weighs 7.8 lbs unloaded—1.2 lbs lighter than comparable .308 Win hunting rifles
- Proprietary magazine releases with 2.5 lbs of pressure for positive ejection
Trade-offs
- Non-AICS magazine system limits aftermarket options—proprietary mags cost $35+ each
- Stock forearm flexes 0.15 inches under bipod load, affecting point of impact shift
- No included optic mounting solution adds $75-150 to actual setup cost
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356324979 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32497 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .223 REM/5.56 NATO |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with AR-15 magazines?
- No, it uses Savage's proprietary AccuStock magazine system, which differs from AR-15 magwell dimensions. You'll need to purchase Savage-specific 5.56 magazines, available through Brownells or MidwayUSA starting at $35 each.
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the 18-inch barrel features standard 1/2x28 threads under the protector cap. Thread depth measures 0.4 inches, compatible with most 5.56 muzzle devices from SilencerCo or Dead Air.
- Can the stock be swapped for aftermarket options?
- The action uses Savage 110 standard inlet dimensions, allowing replacement with Boyd's or MDT chassis systems. Expect 2-4 hours of fitting time for most drop-in stocks due to variance in manufacturing tolerances.
- What's the shipping time to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 3 business days, with transit times averaging 5-7 days via UPS Ground. All shipments require signature confirmation at your selected FFL holder.