Originally Posted by
westbrooklawn
I've done a lot of research on entry level rifles for my grown son. Whitetail hunting with mostly under 100yd. shots, maybe an occasional 150yd. shot. I have narrowed it down to the Marlin XS7 or the Savage Edge, both in .243 Win. They are both in the price range I want to spend. Any input as to which would be the best choice, and if so, why? I know that optics are another whole story, so just concentrating on rifle for now.
I went with the Marlin XS7 in 308. Love it. Have about 100 rounds through mine and its a pleasure to shoot. I handled the Savage, and the marlin felt better. I really like the trigger on Marlin.
For me, having a detachable magazine is a minus. I am always afraid they are gonna drop out in the field. Call me paranoid, but I don't like them. If I can't do it with 4+1 capacity, well then maybe I better go back to the range and rethink my shooting.
Don't know if the savage comes with a scope base, but the Marlin does, so it saves you a small amount of cash there.
Here is a review I posted a little while back if you haven't read through it.
http://www.huntingnet.com/forum/firearm-review-forum/329990-marlin-xs7-308-win-range-report-photos.html