Savage Mark II BV 22 LR 21″ Heavy Barrel Bolt Rifle

About this product

What is the Savage Mark II BV? It's a full-size, right-hand bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle, built around a 21-inch heavy button-rifled barrel and Savage's adjustable AccuTrigger system. This configuration prioritizes mechanical consistency and foundational accuracy for rimfire applications. From my perspective as an armorer, its appeal lies in its straightforward, no-frills design—a platform built for predictable performance rather than aftermarket spectacle.

What is the Savage Mark II BV used for?

The Savage Mark II BV is a dedicated training and small-game rifle, ideal for developing benchrest fundamentals and conducting controlled varmint management. Its 21-inch heavy barrel profile provides excellent harmonic stability, which is critical for maintaining point of impact over a 100-round range session. In my field work, I've found rifles like this excel as an affordable gateway to precision mechanics, allowing shooters to diagnose flinch, trigger control, and breathing issues without the recoil and cost of larger centerfire calibers.

How does the Savage Mark II BV compare to the Ruger Precision Rimfire?

The Savage Mark II BV offers a more traditional and cost-effective entry into precision rimfire compared to the chassis-based Ruger Precision Rimfire. The Ruger's modular chassis and AR-style ergonomics are superior for rapid positional transitions and accessory mounting, but at nearly double the cost for the platform alone. For a shooter whose primary goal is learning fundamental bolt manipulation and building groups from a bench, the Savage's simpler design and laminated stock provide a more direct, uncomplicated learning curve.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 6.2 lb unloaded and measures 41 inches in overall length. The heavy, untapered barrel contributes significantly to that weight, with a diameter of approximately 0.920 inches at the muzzle. An unloaded 5-round magazine adds another 3.4 oz, bringing the typical ready-to-mount weight to roughly 6.5 lb before optics—a weight that provides steady offhand shooting but may feel ponderous for younger shooters or extended carry.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for the tactical games shooter or someone seeking a lightweight packable squirrel rifle. The fixed laminate stock and heavy barrel profile are designed for stability, not mobility. If your primary use involves hiking miles through thick timber or competing in timed positional matches like NRL22, you'd be better served by a lighter, more modular platform like the Stevens 334 in a synthetic configuration, even in a centerfire caliber. The Mark II BV is a tool for deliberate, stationary shooting.

What's in the box?

You receive the rifle itself, one 5-round detachable steel box magazine, and the necessary paperwork. Standard factory packaging does not include scope rings, a sling, or a bore cleaning kit. As with most firearms in this price segment, you must budget for mounting hardware and a quality optic separately—I consider a set of medium-height 1-inch rings and a 4-12x40mm scope a mandatory $150-$300 addition to make proper use of the drilled and tapped receiver.

Is the Savage Mark II BV worth it at $376.99?

Yes, at its current price point, the Mark II BV represents solid value for a dedicated practice and small-game platform. You are paying for the core accuracy components: the heavy button-rifled barrel and the adjustable AccuTrigger. Where you save money is on the furniture and finish—the laminate stock is functional but lacks the precision bedding of a more expensive target model. For comparison, moving to a purpose-built target .22 like a CZ 457 Varmint adds at least $250 to the cost, primarily for a better trigger and a fully bedded action. If your goal is mechanical education and consistent 50-yard groups, this rifle delivers. For hunting-focused versatility, consider the over/under simplicity of the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.