Yep, I love savage weapons. I think they are great buys for the money. I used to a have a 110E in 30-06 in the 80's. I sold it to a buddy who still has it and it works great. The fit and finnish isn't as nice as some of the better rifles, but niether is the price. We had a remington pump at the same time and I thought my savage was the much better weapon. It wasn't as pretty but it was more accurate, had less recoil, and cost less money.

If I had it to do over again I would get the same gun I have but with the accutrigger. I don't like the extended magazine on the marlins either, that is where I put my hand when I shoot. If I had the money I might get a stainless version with the laminated stock. I am thinking of getting an after market stock for mine.

Mine right out of the box would shoot at least 1 inch groups at 100 yards (with no wind) with the hornady V-max ammo. And it's not even broken in yet! I do have a pretty nice scope and mounts though. I have an Alaskan Guide 6.5-20x44 A/O scope from cabela's that cost twice what the gun did.

I compared it to some .22 ammo not that long ago for accuracy and drop at 50,75, and 100 yards. I fired 3 shots at each range aiming at the same point. All nine shots from the 17 went into a hole a dime would cover. My conclusion, very accurate and very flat out to 100 yards. And my savage was only 200 bucks before tax. I did fix the trigger though, but it was just as accurate before I did that.

That being said I wouldn't refuse a marlin if you wanted to give me one either, or if it was the only thing available. I have had a few marlins as well and they are great guns too. I'd also be happy with a H&R single shot, you should take a look at those, probably be cheaper than the savage or marlin.

Paul