Savage Model 170 Pump 30-30 Review: Uncover Its Hidden Truths & Value
For firearm enthusiasts and prospective owners, the allure of a vintage or less common rifle like the Savage Model 170 pump-action .30-30 can be strong, yet it often comes with a significant degree of cautious curiosity. You’re not just buying a gun; you’re investing in a piece of history with potential performance quirks and maintenance challenges. This comprehensive review aims to cut through the speculation, providing a data-driven assessment of the Model 170’s reliability, performance, and true value in today’s market, helping you make an informed decision.
The Savage Model 170: A Historical Overview and Design Philosophy
The Savage Model 170 represents a unique chapter in American firearm manufacturing, offering a pump-action alternative to the ubiquitous lever-action .30-30 rifles. Introduced in the late 1960s, it sought to blend the familiarity of a shotgun’s action with the proven ballistics of the .30-30 Winchester cartridge. This design choice set it apart from its contemporaries, appealing to hunters seeking a different operational feel.
Origins and Design Intent
Savage Arms designed the Model 170 to be an economical yet robust hunting rifle, specifically targeting deer and medium game. Its pump-action mechanism was intended to provide faster follow-up shots than a bolt-action, while avoiding the complexity of a semi-automatic. The rifle’s streamlined aesthetics and practical functionality were key selling points during its production run.
Key Mechanical Features
The Model 170 features a tubular magazine beneath the barrel, holding three rounds of .30-30 ammunition, plus one in the chamber. Its slide-action mechanism is operated by a forend that cycles the bolt, extracting spent casings and chambering new rounds. The rifle typically came equipped with iron sights, though some models were drilled and tapped for scope mounts, adding to their versatility for various hunting scenarios.
Performance Metrics: Accuracy and Recoil Characteristics
When evaluating any firearm, on-range performance is paramount, and the Savage Model 170 is no exception. Understanding its accuracy potential and recoil profile is crucial for prospective owners and active hunters. Its design lends itself to specific handling characteristics that differ from other rifle types.
Field Accuracy Expectations
The Model 170, chambered in .30-30 Winchester, generally offers sufficient accuracy for typical deer hunting distances, usually within 150-200 yards. Expect groups of 2-3 inches at 100 yards with quality ammunition, which is perfectly adequate for harvesting medium game. Factors like barrel condition and sight alignment significantly impact real-world precision.
Recoil Characteristics with .30-30
The .30-30 Winchester cartridge is known for its moderate recoil, making it comfortable for most shooters. In the relatively lightweight Model 170, this translates to a noticeable but manageable push, rather than a sharp kick. The pump action itself, requiring a forward and backward movement, can contribute to perceived recoil management by distributing the energy of the shot and subsequent cycling.
Reliability and Durability: Common Wear Points
Assessing the long-term reliability of a vintage pump-action rifle like the Savage Model 170 requires a critical examination of its mechanical components. While generally robust, certain areas are prone to wear or require specific attention for optimal function. Understanding these aspects is vital for maintaining performance.
Magazine and Feeding Mechanisms
The tubular magazine and associated feeding ramp are critical to the Model 170’s reliable operation. Issues can arise from worn magazine springs, damaged followers, or misaligned feed ramps, leading to failure to feed or double feeds. Thorough inspection of these components is a prerequisite for purchase.
Action Smoothness and Longevity
The pump-action mechanism should operate smoothly, without excessive binding or stiffness. Over time, wear on the slide bars or bolt locking lugs can impact reliability and safety. A well-maintained action will feel positive and consistent, indicating proper care by previous owners.
Value Proposition: Hunting vs. Collecting
The Savage Model 170 occupies an interesting niche, appealing to both hunters seeking a functional field rifle and collectors interested in unique firearm designs. Its specific market value depends heavily on its condition, originality, and the individual buyer’s intent. Informed evaluation is key to making a sound investment.
As a Deer Hunting Rifle
For hunters, the Model 170 offers a practical and effective tool for close to medium-range game. Its quick follow-up shot capability and proven .30-30 ballistics make it a formidable choice in dense brush or woodland environments. Its affordable price point often makes it an attractive alternative to more expensive options.
Collectible Status and Market Value
While not as widely collected as some lever-action counterparts, the Model 170 holds a certain appeal for collectors of unusual or less common firearms. Excellent condition examples, especially those with original boxes or paperwork, command higher prices. Its limited production run adds to its unique collectible appeal.
| Aspect | Hunting Value | Collectible Value |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Practical field performance | Historical significance, rarity |
| Condition Impact | Functionality is key, cosmetic wear less critical | Originality and pristine cosmetics are paramount |
| Price Range | $300 – $600 (functional condition) | $500 – $1000+ (excellent/NIB condition) |
| Key Traits | Reliability, accuracy, handling | Uniqueness, historical context, completeness |
Identifying and Addressing Common Issues
Prospective owners of a used Savage Model 170 should be aware of several common issues that can arise due to age, wear, or previous neglect. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and understanding of these potential problems can save significant time and expense. Being prepared for these potential pitfalls is part of responsible firearm ownership.
Magazine-Related Malfunctions
Weak Magazine Spring: Can lead to failure to feed as rounds aren’t pushed up reliably. Bent or Damaged Follower: Causes misfeeds and can prevent smooth cycling. Worn Feed Ramp: Results in cartridges snagging or failing to chamber correctly.
Stock and Forend Integrity
Cracks in Wood Furniture: Especially around the tang and receiver, due to recoil stress or improper handling. Loose Forend: Can affect cycling smoothness and overall feel, often due to worn attachment points. Water Damage/Rot: Less common, but possible in poorly stored firearms, affecting structural integrity.
Disassembly and Maintenance Considerations
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliable operation of any firearm, and the Savage Model 170 is no exception. Understanding its basic disassembly and cleaning procedures is essential for responsible ownership. Parts availability can be a concern, making careful handling and preventative maintenance even more critical.
Field Stripping for Cleaning
The Model 170 typically allows for relatively straightforward field stripping for routine cleaning of the barrel and bolt face. More extensive disassembly, particularly of the trigger group or pump mechanism, might require specialized tools or a gunsmith’s expertise. Always consult a factory manual or reputable gunsmithing guide before attempting complex disassembly.
Parts Availability and Customization
Limited New Parts: Due to its age and discontinued status, new factory parts are scarce. Aftermarket Solutions: Some generic springs or small parts might be adaptable, but often require fitting. Used Parts Market: Online forums and specialized gun parts dealers are the primary sources for replacement components. Customization: While possible, extensive customization is not common for the Model 170, as its value often lies in its originality.
Savage Model 170 vs. Lever-Action Rivals: A Design Comparison
The Model 170’s pump-action design offers a distinct alternative to the more common lever-action .30-30 rifles, such as the Winchester Model 94 or Marlin Model 336. Understanding these design differences is key to appreciating its unique position in the market. Each action type presents its own operational advantages and disadvantages.
Design Philosophy Differences
The Model 170 adopted a shotgun-like manipulation, aiming for a rapid, linear cycling motion. Lever-actions, conversely, rely on a pivoting lever to cycle the action. This fundamental difference influences everything from shooter ergonomics to reloading speed and perceived reliability in adverse conditions.
Practical Operational Trade-offs
Cycling Speed: Pump actions can be very fast with practice, often rivaling or exceeding lever-actions for quick follow-up shots. Ergonomics: The pump action keeps the shooter’s hand on the forend, potentially maintaining a more stable sight picture during cycling. Lever-actions require moving the firing hand. Weather Resistance: Both designs are generally robust, but the enclosed nature of some pump actions might offer slightly better protection against debris than an open lever-action receiver. Ammunition Compatibility: Both are designed for flat-nosed or round-nosed .30-30 ammunition due to tubular magazines, preventing primer detonation from recoil.
Unveiling the True Worth of Your Savage Model 170 Pump .30-30
After a detailed examination of its history, performance, reliability, and market position, the Savage Model 170 pump .30-30 emerges as a distinctive and capable firearm. Its unique action and proven cartridge make it a viable option for hunters and a fascinating piece for collectors. For the cautious buyer, understanding its specific quirks and maintenance needs is paramount to unlocking its full potential. This rifle represents a blend of historical ingenuity and practical utility, offering a different perspective on the classic .30-30 platform.
Essential Savage Model 170 Pump .30-30 Questions Answered
Is the Savage Model 170 a reliable hunting rifle?
Yes, when in good mechanical condition and properly maintained, the Savage Model 170 is generally a reliable hunting rifle for deer and medium game, particularly at typical woods ranges. Its pump action allows for quick follow-up shots.
What are the common issues to look for when buying a used Model 170?
Key issues include worn magazine springs, damaged followers, cracked wood furniture, and rough or binding action. Always inspect the bore condition and ensure the safety mechanism functions correctly.
Is the .30-30 cartridge still effective for hunting?
Absolutely. The .30-30 Winchester remains an effective and popular hunting cartridge for deer, black bear, and hog within its practical range of 150-200 yards. Modern ammunition with spitzer bullets (designed for tubular magazines) has further enhanced its capabilities.
How does the pump action of the Model 170 compare to a lever action?
The pump action offers a linear cycling motion, allowing the shooter to maintain a grip on the forend, potentially aiding in sight picture retention. Lever actions require moving the firing hand to cycle, which some find less intuitive or slower. Both can be fast with practice.
Are parts readily available for the Savage Model 170?
New factory parts are scarce due to the rifle being out of production for decades. Owners typically rely on the used parts market, online forums, or gunsmiths who can fabricate or adapt components. This makes preventative maintenance and careful handling crucial.
Can I mount a scope on a Savage Model 170?
Many Model 170s were drilled and tapped from the factory for scope mounts, allowing for the installation of optics. However, some earlier models may not be, requiring professional gunsmithing if you wish to add a scope. Always verify the receiver’s condition for mounting.
For me, it’s not just about hitting a target; it’s about understanding the entire ballistic journey. I’ve spent two decades in the field, meticulously documenting the performance of various loads, including extensive testing on LAX Ammo’s remanufactured lines for long-range consistency. My work involves chronographs, wind meters, and a deep dive into the nuances that separate a good shot from a perfect one.