Savage 64 Precision: A classic updated for competition

The Model 64 rifle has been in Savage's lineup a long time, and in the Lakefield and Cooey lineups a long time before that. But, in a market with unprecedented demand for firearms of all types, Savage is re-mixing this classic into a new model, the 64 Precision.

As the name implies, this rifle is intended for use in the rapidly-growing sport of precision rimfire shooting. Precision rimfire takes the ideas and challenges of long-range precision rifle shooting and applies those to the world of rimfire. The distances may be shorter, but the challenges and principles are the same—and costs are less. Errrr, well at least they can be less; make no mistake, rimfire rifles, optics and other equipment can still add up fast.

However, low entry cost does seem to be an emphasis of rimfire precision series (see previous write-ups here and here). With that in mind, it actually makes sense for Savage to bring out the 64 Precision, even though it's an older design. This is a precision rimfire that Savage can manufacture for an affordable price, and that's important in a series that restricts entry costs.

Here's what Savage's website says about the new .22:

The new Model 64 Precision houses a semi-automatic action in a synthetic chassis with M-LOK slots and an ergonomic pistol grip. Its heavy barrel has a threaded muzzle for even greater functionality. Extend the range of rimfire with the 64 Precision and see what’s possible with Savage accuracy.

The barrel is 16.5 inches long, and the muzzle has a 1/2-28 thread. The drilled and tapped receiver comes with a one-piece Picatinny rail, and that stock seems to be compatible with AR-style grips, for those who want to tweak their ergonomics. The stock also has an integral barricade stop, allowing shooters to build a more stable shooting position when competing. Unloaded, it weighs just over 5 lb, and it's 35.5 inches long.

One other highly interesting tidbit: Savage offers this rimfire with 10-round mags, like the 64 has always come with, but also says 20-rounders are available (see the title image). That's news to most Canadian shooters, and if upcoming federal legislation doesn't ban these mags, expect strong demand for them from Canadian shooters. After all, we've been making this basic rifle pattern at the Lakefield plant since the 1960s.

Pricing for the new 64 Precision starts at $299 USD, which should keep the rifle well under the $500 CAD limit that series often set. It's also less than half the price of Savage's own A22 and B22 precision models.

You can find more details at Savage's website, if you're interested in this budget-friendly .22 that comes with options not often seen in this price range. Given the 64's existing reputation for affordable accuracy, this rifle could become a sleeper hit.

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