The Savage rifles that you saw blown up.. personally I would guess that was 100% operator error. If you load them right, I think they are a very safe rifle. But you need to remember to stay within the rifles guidelines for loads. They are well made, very accurate sabot shooters, and the company no longer makes the rifles. Something to keep in mind.

Are they better then the T/C and Knight rifles... I think that's like comparing Chevrolet to Ford. All in what you like. Yes you don't have to clean the smokeless rifles as much, but you still for all intent and purpose have to clean them.

With some of the new powders for the the non smokeless rifles like the Black Horn 209, I think it boils down to what appeals to you.