Bushnell Legend scope on a Savage 111 30-06

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PhatFireMan

Inactive
I recently bought a Savage 11/111 Hunter XP 30-06 combo rifle/scope package, pick it up in a couple days. This particular model has a junk scope, and no Accu-Trigger. Also, from what I have read this rifle has what is called "long action", which may have issues with certain scopes/mounts...?

I got a Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 3-9x50mm Multi-X scope on the way to put on this gun, I held off on getting mounts and/or a base because I'm not sure exactly what to get when ordering online. No local gunsmiths or shops worth asking any advice from.

I saw another thread where someone recommended the Burris 1" Zee Weaver-Style Rings, Matte Finish, Medium and a Weaver #46 Base, Matte Finish for the Savage Model 111. I like these products, but I also got the impression that there may be a difference between the AccuTrigger model and mine, and the long action can come into play as well. Since it is the weekend I cannot call Savage to ask.

One thing I don't quite get, and I may be missing something here cause I don't have the gun in my possession yet...why do I need to buy any base(s) at all? The gun comes with a Bushnell scope mounted on it already, and if I buy another Bushnell scope and some better ring mounts...it would seem they should attach to the same base rail that comes on the gun, right? Or is there a different size rail on my gun? I know of "Picatinny" and "Weaver" style, is the Savage gun neither of those...? 3/8"...?

Forgive my ignorance on this, this is all new to me. All I know is when I search the net I see hundreds of options and opinions, most of the opinions are a few years old and I know products change dramatically in that amount of time.

Any help much appreciated. :cool:

Kris
 
You don't need new bases. You may not even need new rings. If the scope on the gun is the same size as the one you're buying, you can use the same rings. I always buy Burris, Leupold, or Warne rings when I get a new gun. Do I need them? Not really. They are better but better is in the mind of the person buying the bases and rings. If you use the rings and base already on the gun, and they hold the scope securely in the same position after firing a few rounds, you probably won't have any problems. Even the cheapest bases and rings will usually work. If you're on a budget, try what you have before jumping into something more expensive. I've only ever had problems with one brand of rings that were economy rings and that brand will not be on the Savage you're getting. If you do get new rings, use the base(s) on the gun. There won't be anything wrong with the base. FYI....Savage doesn't lock these down very tight on the package guns. Get some BLUE Loctite and put it on the base threads. Clean the screws with a little alcohol first and tighten securely. Turn snug but don't turn to the point of breaking off the screw. The Blue Loctite is a thread locker that keeps vibration from loosening up the screws. Do the same on the ring screws. Good luck and have fun.
 
The accutrigger basees are different from the pre-accutrigger bases. I do not know much about the scope you are mounting. The Savage 06 length action is pretty long. You might have to go to a one piece base, just depends on how long the tube is on the scope. Consider the Burris Signature Zee rings.
 
All great info, thanks!

I'll need new rings regardless, cause I plan to put the package scope over onto my kid's Rossi .243 matched pair barrel. The Burris rings have been suggested a few times, think I'll go with those. Medium height is what I've read, hope that works out.

I'll just have to get my hands on the rifle, the new scope, and the Burris rings...and see how it all fits. Still hoping somebody with the exact same setup can chime in on the "long action" issue, I still have no idea what base to buy IF the OEM one doesn't work for some weird reason.

THANKS!
 
Just keep in mind that the Zee and the Signature Zee are not the same ring. The signature is a much better ring unless you plan on lapping.
 
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The 06 action is pertty long, I had trouble getting a scope close enough to my eye. Had to use extension rings (Weaver 1"). Something you may want to look into.
 
I have the same rifle, thus the same issue. The Bushnell that comes on it is very long so standard bases that are used, i.e. Weaver #46's work. I bought a Nitrex TR1 3x9-42 and Warne rings and bases, but had to use the front extension base so the front ring mounts just a little rearward and just fits between the objective and eyepiece.

Weavers # for the extension base is 402. It brings the groove rearward about 1/2 inch, which should give you enough room to mount a new scope.

Edit: I just measured mine ring to ring center and have just over 5 inches. The Bushnell according to the specs has a mounting length of 6.4 inches, so it looks like you won't need the extension base. Probably need a taller ring for the 50mm objective though.
 
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Swapped out for the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 3-9x50 DOA scope, and ended up going with the Burris Signature 1" Zee Rings, medium height. I did not change out the rail bases, just used what came on the gun. Everything fit, and no interference with the bolt action or eye relief position. Sighted it in today...no problems, very accurate.

I would like to upgrade the trigger though. Not fond of the non-Accutrigger option...can feel the creep and the pull is too heavy. Maybe RifleBasix...?

Thanks!
 
I have the same rifle, I topped mine with one piece Reaper rings/base and a VXII 3x9 which is a perfect setup. Fill it with some RL19 fueled 150gr SSTs and she gives me easy 1/2" groups and impressive speed.
 
The pre-accutriggger can be turned into a wonderful trigger with a bit of trigger work. I have a couple of 1k competition guns that are still using the factory, pre-accutrigger with a lot of work done on them.
 
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