Overview
The Savage Model 170 is a bit of an odd duck in the world of centerfire rifles. At first glance, you might mistake it for a 20-gauge shotgun. In reality, it is a pump-action rifle chambered in the classic .30-30 Winchester.
Introduced as a budget-friendly alternative to the famous Remington 760 series, the 170 series (including the 170A) offers a unique manual of arms for hunters who prefer a fast pump action. It is lightweight, quick to point, and ideally suited for thick brush or bush hunting where shots are fast and close. While it feels a bit unrefined compared to a modern bolt action, it has a certain mechanical charm that is hard to ignore. These rifles were made in the 1970’s and 80’s.
Specifications
- Action: Pump / Slide Action
- Caliber: .30-30 Winchester (also occasionally found in .35 Remington)
- Capacity: 3+1 (3 rounds in the tube, 1 in the chamber)
- Safety: Top-mounted tang safety
- Sights: Brass bead front sight; folding rear sight; receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts
- Weight: 7.3lbs
Usability
Controls and Safety One of the standout features of the 170a is the tang safety. For many hunters, this is the gold standard for ergonomics. You can transition from a carry grip to “fire” without ever moving your hand, simply by flicking the safety forward with your thumb as you bring the rifle to your shoulder.
The action release is located at the front of the trigger guard. On the model tested, it was quite stiff.
Loading and Cycling Loading the 170a is exactly like loading a pump-action shotgun. It uses a lifter and a tubular magazine. There is a small “shelf” or latch inside the loading port; you want to make sure the rim of the cartridge catches that shelf so the rounds don’t spring back out at you.
When it comes to cycling the action, do not be gentle. This rifle requires some authority to function correctly. If you baby the slide, it may fail to cycle. When run hard, however, it ejects spent brass with a surprising amount of energy.
Trigger and Accuracy The trigger pull on this specific unit measured in at 5 lbs 14 oz. There is a noticeable amount of “creep” right before the break. While that wouldn’t be ideal for a long-range precision rifle, for a bush gun shooting at 100 yards or less, it is perfectly acceptable.
Aftermarket and Potential Modifications
The Savage 170a is a legacy firearm, so don’t expect a wealth of modern accessories.
- Optics: The receiver is drilled and tapped. While a scope is an option, many users find that a quick-pointing rifle like this is best served by the factory iron sights or perhaps a low-power red dot.
- Maintenance: Be aware that the teardown process is a bit complicated. It is not a rifle you want to take apart in the field for a deep clean.
Competitors
- Remington 760 / 7600: The “big brother” of the pump-action world. Generally more robust and available in more powerful calibers, but also more expensive.
- Lever Action Rifles (Winchester 94 / Marlin 336): The primary rivals for any .30-30. The lever actions are more traditional, but the Savage 170a offers a familiar feel for hunters who grew up shooting pump shotguns.
Conclusion
The Savage 170a is an interesting relic from the past. It isn’t the most optimal rifle for every hunt, especially if you need long-range performance or a light, crisp trigger. However, if you are hunting in tight quarters and want a fast-handling rifle in a proven caliber, the 170a is a fun, functional option. It’s a “utility” gun through and through.
