I have a 917V. I looked at the Savage first and was disgusted by the rough finish of the bolt, receiver, etc. Felt like the whole gun needed deburred and was cheaply made. Felt the Marlin and minus the stiff trigger its a real winner. My best friend has the 917VS and both of us can shoot the heads off of tacks at the 60 yard range and honestly probably the 120 yard if I could see that good. I'd recommend the Rifle Basix trigger for it. It makes for a consistent one shot one kill rifle on small game. Mine loves the Federal ballistic tip ammo and the Hornady. Doesnt shoot the rest too well.