What's the Deal with 30-30 Bolt Action Savages?

Seeking Advice on 30-30 Bolt Action Savage Rifles

I’ve been doing some research on bolt-action rifles, specifically those chambered in .30-30. I’ve come across the Savage 340, but I’m curious about its performance and how it stacks up against other models.

Value and Performance

  • What are the current market values for used Savage 340 rifles? Are they generally considered a good deal?
  • How do they perform in the field? For those of you who own or have used one, what’s your experience like?

Technical Specs

  • I’d love to know more about the technical specifications of the Savage 340. What are the barrel lengths available, and how does the action feel while cycling?
  • Also, how is the accuracy in terms of shooting at different ranges?

Upgrades and Modifications

  • If any of you have modified your Savage 340, I’d like to hear about any upgrades you’ve made. What kind of enhancements did you find made the most difference?

General Discussion

  • Lastly, can anyone share their thoughts on whether the Savage 340 is a good choice for hunting or if there are better alternatives in the same caliber?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences!


I appreciate any insight you can provide. Hoping to make an informed decision soon!

The 30-30 Bolt Action Savage is an underrated gem. I’ve found it to be exceptionally accurate for its class, especially with flat-nose bullets. It’s perfect for short to medium range hunting.

I completely agree! I’ve used it in various conditions and it holds up really well. The effective range is about 200 yards for me, though others might stretch it a bit further.

When it comes to bullet choices, I prefer 150 grain for the balance of power and recoil. It makes for a more pleasant shooting experience, especially after a long day at the range.

That’s a solid choice! Have you noticed any difference in performance with different brands? I’ve had mixed results with some manufacturers.

5 Likes

Overall handling is pretty decent, but I sometimes struggle with the bolt action being a bit stiff right out of the box. After some use, it definitely smooths out though!

3 Likes

Right? I had the same issue with mine initially, but after some lubrication, it works like a charm now. Just give it a little TLC and it’s good to go!

Stiff bolts can be a hassle. I’ve noticed it performs best when it’s clean and well-maintained, especially after a day in the field.

I’d say the gun shines in the woods as a brush rifle. It’s compact and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for taking quick shots at moving targets.

Absolutely! It’s like a friendly squirrel at the range; easy to handle and fun to shoot! Just watch out, it can be picky about its ammo.

That’s a good point! Has anyone experienced any ammo that didn’t feed well? I’d love to avoid those mistakes myself.

4 Likes

I’ve had my 30-30 Bolt Action Savage for years! For cleaning, I always use a good copper solvent and a nylon brush. It’s vital to keep the barrel clean to maintain accuracy.

2 Likes

I totally agree! I’ve found that using a bit of CLP lubricant after cleaning really helps reduce friction and improves function!

Does anyone have tips for preventing rust? I’ve heard anti-rust oils can be a lifesaver, but I’m unsure which ones are best for 30-30s.

3 Likes

I’ve had success with Ballistol; it not only protects against rust but also cleans the metal parts effectively.

As for wear prevention, make sure to inspect your action regularly. A quick wipe with oil helps maintain a smooth operation and prolongs the life of moving parts.

3 Likes

Does anyone else use silicone cloths for wiping down their rifles? I find them great for quick cleaning and rust protection!

I’ve heard mixed reviews about silicone cloths. They can trap dirt too, so I prefer microfiber for safer cleaning. Just my two cents!

That’s a fair point! I always double-check my materials before cleaning to avoid unwanted scratches.

You all are so knowledgeable! I’m just concerned about finding the right balance between maintenance and keeping my rifle functional. Any pointers?