The Savage 10 BA Stealth, shown here chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor and sporting a 24-inch barrel, offers beginning precision rifle shooters a great gun at a great price.
For more information, visit https://www.savagearms.com/firearms/model/BAStealth.
To purchase on GunsAmerica.com, click this link: https://www.gunsamerica.com/Search.aspx?T=Savage%20Stealth.
Savage is well-known for producing rifles that outperform their price points. In fact, they often can outshoot rifles that cost twice as much or more. I recently had a chance to try out the 10 BA Stealth, which is designed to be lightweight, simple, and above all accurate. It’s available in either .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor. Starting with a factory blueprinted action, Savage adds a precision barrel, in this case a 24-inch 1:8 twist, fluted barrel with 5/8 x 24” threading at the muzzle. This barreled action is factory designed for the best possible accuracy unlike others that simply drop a run-of-the-mill setup in a nice stock. It comes with a single-piece flat rail (no elevation) for scope attachment, and an oversized bolt knob.
The rifle feeds from an included 10-round detachable magazine.
SPECS
- Chambering: 6.5 Creedmoor
- Barrel: 24 inches
- OA Length: 38.5 inch
- Weight:9.2 pounds
- Stock: FAB Defense
- Sights: Scope rail provided
- Action: Bolt-action
- Finish: Black anodized
- Capacity: 10
- MSRP: $1,207
Savage has worked in conjunction with Drake Associates and uses their monolithic aluminum design chassis. Machined from a solid billet it utilizes AICS-patterned magazines and an AR pistol grip and buffer tube/stock. It houses an adjustable Savage AccuTrigger. Minimalist in design, the stock extends forward slightly and uses M-LOK rails to accommodate accessories, and a single sling stud is provided from the factory. A Fab Defense stock using a cheek riser goes over the six position tube, but it will accept any AR tube allowing the use of precision stock systems if needed. At 9.2 pounds, it is as light as precision rifles go and well balanced. Retail is $1,207.00 for both the .308 (with a 20-inch barrel) and 6.5 Creedmoor (with a 24-inch barrel) models.
To my mind, it is a great starter rifle for the precision rifle enthusiast due to its retail price point of $1,207 and its ability to easily accept AR-pattern accessories. This one has a lot of potential to get a lot of new (as well as experienced) shooters out into the field of long-range shooting.
The author equipped the rifle with a Burris scope and GEMTECH suppressor for testing.
Testing
During my testing, scope duties were handled by Burris Optics new XTR II 3-15x50mm FFP (First Focal Plane) scope using a 34mm tube and SCR lighted Mil Lined reticle. Mounted in a set of Vortex Precision Matched Rings, it zeroed with ease. Clarity on the glass is excellent and the reticle is comparable to any simple Mil-lined reticle on the market. The vertical line has 20 mils graduated in half mil increments below the horizontal line. There are five mils above with the last two graduated in .10 mils. Extending on either side are 10 mils graduated in .2 of a mile for the first five where another .10 mils section sits for ranging calculation. The center section is lighted for three mils on either side and six mils below the center line. Dialed up to 15 power, there were 11 mils available for holds with the entire horizontal line visible. Knobs are tactile with audible clicks at .10 mils per click and 10 mils per revolution. The XTR uses a zero stop that is easily adjusted. Loosen the screws, slip the knobs to zero and press firmly and re-tighten. Parallax adjustment sits on the right along with lighted reticle activation. There are 11 settings with “battery saver” steps in between each setting and a hard “off” setting at both ends. Scope covers that flip flat against the scope when open are included.
The Burris used during testing was an XTR II 3-15x50mm first focal plane model that really impressed the author.
If at all possible, any precision rifle used for tactical work should be suppressed. The advantages are huge, and the drawbacks short of cost are all but non-existent. In keeping with that philosophy, I attached Gemtech’s Dagger direct threat suppressor for all the testing. Rated to .300 WM and built from titanium, it only weighs in at 15.3 ounces. It can be used on smaller calibers on barrels as short as 7.5 inches for 300 BLK, and 10.3 inches in 5.56mm and 6.8 SPC. It’s even rated for a 12-inch .308 barrel and an 18-inch 300 WM, making it extremely versatile.
The GEMTECH Dagger used by the author fit easily on the rifle’s threaded muzzle, and is rated up to .300 WM.
Range Time
Savage starts with a blueprinted action to insure accuracy, and it worked. Starting just after dawn it was cool and smoky due to some fires in the area, but wind was minimal and the bugs had yet to come out. My first group in testing measured just over half an inch, and it just got better from there. My best group was fired using Hornady’s 143 Grain ELD-X Precision Hunger at a tad over .35 inches. While I have produced better groups in my life, I have not with a factory rifle costing just $1,200.00. My next best group was produced using Doubletap’s rather juicy 127-grain LRX at .45 inches. Nothing exceeded .70 inches during the test, all were very consistent. Moving out to 500 yards on steel, six rounds of Hornady/ELD match were loaded up with elevation dialed in using data from my Kestrel Applied Ballistics Meter. Not a single miss was had, with all hitting close to center.
The author’s best group of .35 inches was achieved with Hornady ammo, and all ammo tested came in sub-MOA.
Being my first real test of the Burris XTR II, I was very impressed. Retail pricing on this model is only $1,259.00, a price range that is becoming incredibly competitive. Scopes that cost 3K are great and offer features a few shooters need, but this Burris and similar scopes perform well for the vast majority of conditions. The glass is as clear as any in this price range; as clear as some with twice the price tag.
Measurements were consistent when working from 100-800 yards using input from the Kestrel. First round hits were the norm until the wind kicked up, but elevation stayed consistent. Knobs are easy to grab with firm and audible clicks. Setting the zero stop is easy and was used in between each change of distance. When the day was done it held its zero to within .25 inches. Given a 20-degree temperature change and a couple hundred rounds using a suppressor, that is about as good as it gets. Still more long-term testing to do, but if this run is any indication this is an excellent scope in general, let alone for its price.
Gemtech prides itself on sound reduction and their Dagger delivers. Most of the time there was just a puff of white smoke. Most suppressors designed primarily for sound reduction will result in increased bolt lift on rapid fire strings, and this was no exception. It takes time to allow the trapped gas to dissipate so run the bolt hard and fast, and by round four or five you will need to work a bit harder to lift the bolt. Most of the time a count of one or two seconds between shots eliminates this. As a practical matter it’s not a concern for most precision shooters, but if you compete with a suppressor you need to be aware of it.
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The FAB Defense stock came standard on the rifle, although the AR buffer tube extension design allows you to swap it.
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The hand guard portion of the stock features M-LOK attachment points and is short and compact.
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Hand guards of reduced or minimal length like this one seem to be gaining in popularity. Most shooters have no need to hang lasers, lights, rangefinders, or anything other than a bi-pod off their rifles. If you need all of those things, and or clip on NV (Night Vision), this stock may be problematic. There is plenty of room for a light, maybe one other device, but it will cramp your style a bit. If not, it saves quite a bit of weight you will never use. Working barricades and around the bench there was a tad less space for bags and the like, but not unworkable at all. If you spend much of your time in prone or resting on a bag it is fine.
The FAB Defense cheek rest on the stock never came loose and provided a pretty solid purchase. It never collapsed under recoil nor interfered with positions. Recoil was minimal with the 6.5 Creedmoor, so that was not an issue. If you want something different it’s pretty easy, just swap them out. If you prefer a precision rifle stock of some type you just change the buffer tube.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a reasonably priced precision rifle capable of accuracy exceeding most shooters, the Savage 10 BA Stealth is an excellent choice. You get a rifle with a blueprinted action, a great barrel and impressive performance at a retail price of around $1,200. Chambering it in 6.5 Creedmoor provides a solid platform for longer-range target shooting and precision rifle competitions. The stock is rock solid, it works with AICS magazines, it balances well, and accuracy is excellent. It allows you to change stocks and pistol grips as needed to meet personal needs. If it has a limitation, it’s the hand guard length, but that’s all about personal need and preference. Far too many people buy what they think is “operational” with features (and weight) they just don’t need. If you are planning on hanging another 10 pounds of stuff on the end of your rifle you may want to look at something different.
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The AR-pattern grip performed well, and can be easily swapped out with any other AR-pattern grip.
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The tang-mounted safety was simple and easy to operate for the author.
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Savage rifles have always been accurate, but they are also amongst the most user friendly on the market. Barrel changes can be made with simple tools due to the barrel nut system; no need to take them to a custom shop. This rifle would accept any barrel change using a .308-based cartridge pretty simply, so it’s easy to change caliber or even length for different purposes.
The rifle comes standard with the terrific AccuTrigger system.
Savage has done a great job with this rifle meeting what may be the largest demographic for precision rifle shooters, the entry level. It will shoot at a much higher level for sure, but it allows new shooters to experience the joy that comes from ringing steel at 1,000 yards consistently, or putting five rounds into a hole you can cover with a dime. If you are new to precision rifle shooting and want a start, the combination of the Stealth and the Burris HTR II worked great. For those Savage fans, you now have an out-of-the-box blue printed action in a proven long range caliber (6.5 Creedmoor) that is soft shooting and easy to maneuver. Either way it is a great choice and should be added to anyone’s list of precision rifle choices.
For more information, visit https://www.savagearms.com/firearms/model/BAStealth.
To purchase on GunsAmerica.com, click this link: https://www.gunsamerica.com/Search.aspx?T=Savage%20Stealth.
Anyone willing to take the time to test things and offer that information free of charge should be commended. Thank you.
I have to agree with Charlie Brown. If a person can’t come to a website like this and read articles and take them for what they are worth and keep his mouth shut, he shouldn’t even join in the conversation. If you read something that you don’t agree with, take it with a grain of salt and move on. To try to relate that you are an all knowing expert (and most who do this actually don’t know squat, but think they do) is not what I nor anyone else came to this forum to read. So Mr. Ohio, why don’t you keep your comments to yourself in the future. You my friend, are EXTREMELY ANNOYING to say the least.
Jim
P.S. I don’t recall reading any of your reviews on anything other than yourself ANYWHERE in my 50 years in this sport.
I understand that Burris sponsors these articles but this was supposed to be a review of the rifle, not the scope! Way more information was given about the scope than the rifle. A bit disappointing.
RUGER 18008 6.5 Creedmoor 10 Folding, Adjustable Length of Pull and Comb Height 24\” 43.25\” – 46.75\” 10.7 lb. 12\” – 15.50\” $1599.00 MSRP for just a few dollars more you could have bought a real gun with places to put on your range finder or laser !
Great tube size scope, but why such low power when the gun has such a long range ? SEE A SMALL TARGET, MISS BIG
New to LR shooting. After research bought Savage Stealth 10 BA based on rep for affordable accuracy. Original Ruger PR at $1299 w/upgrade this year to $1599. Paid $ 888.99 for my Savage, a big difference than the few bucks you mention. Doubt there is a $700 difference between the way the two shoot.
Why is the .308 only in a 20\” barrel while the 6.5 is in a 24\” barrel? As a fan of the .308, this is somewhat disappointing.
Why is the .308 only in a 20″ barrel while the 6.5 is in a 24″ barrel? As a fan of the .308, this is somewhat disappointing.
Every time, I want a new rifle , I come home with another Savage. They just can’t be beat on quality, accuracy, and price. I own a half dozen Savage rifles now many with wood stocks that are heavy and a great deal for the money. No, I don’t work for Savage but, I worn their baseball cap.
I have a savage model 12 LRP in 6.5 creedmor, excellent rifle trigger is unbelievable can be set down to six ounces
I guess that we left handers are not considered worthy of a long range, bolt action rifle.
All my guns were made for right-handed shooters. I shoot with my left hand because that is all I have now. get used to it . It’s a right-handed world.
Consider a Savage BA110, with a little higher price point.
I’m new too Savage, but the 300wm 110ba-le is incredible. The muzzle brake on this gun is extremely effective/efficient. I am a 264wm fan ( it’s not a Savage), but an awesome gun. My oldest son was the first too shoot using HSM 210 Berger bullets, which is incredibly accurate. At 200 yards it was rocking 1/2 in. AR550 plate. All I can say is that Savage did an extremely well job with it. If Savage would make a 264wm in this setup I would most definitely buy.
I had an RPR on order for over a year and when it came in, the SOB sold it to someone else without even calling me. Good enough! I rebarreled my savage 300 win mag with a shilen select match 28″ full bull in 264 on an Xlr evolution chassis. It not only looks better, but it out shoots the RPR in 6.5 creed somethings fierce. Not at all sorry I missed out, and theSOB noticed I don’t go into his shop anymore
David Bahde is an exceptional scribe and I read all his articles. Well done, once again, in showcasing this achievement from Savage. It is a tremendous rifle that, crosses over from black gun to blueprinted bolt action.
I could go for a for a left handed 6.5 Creedmoor. The 110BA 300WM in LH is a great gun. I would like to add a Stealth to the collection.
Exceptionally mediocre. Writing style is almost unreadable, unless passive voice is your cup of tea. Egads, man, have an editor review/revise your copy before it goes out. As to the repeated references to “beginning” shooters, you need to stop, and you do a disservice to Savage and anybody contemplating the purchase of this rifle. (FWIW, I competed in long-range tactical matches for years, using gear — by choice — that cost a total of $1k including optics! And, I set a range record, won the match on several occasions, and regularly beat other shooters using state-of-the-art gear costing thousands more than mine. KISS, got it?)
Another shaky (at best) premise is the suppressor. The vast majority of rifle shooters in the USA do not use this sort of gear, and its availability is a real PITA considering the Class III protocol, cost, waiting time, etc. And in the matches in which I competed, including F-Class and 600y and 1,000y benchrest, nobody to my recollection ever used a suppressor.
As to the claimed accuracy results… if true, then this rifle is the best accuracy bargain in history. Three (presumably consecutive) 5-shot groups with an average dispersion of 0.35″? Using factory ammo? Four different factory loads, with an overall group size average of 0.525″? Pictures, or better still a video as such shooting occurs, or it didn’t happen.
FWIW, Bryce M. Towsley also reviewed this rifle, and you can easily find his article about same via a Google search. In his testing, the rifle averaged 1″ groups at 100y. That, I can believe.
I agree, I do like savage rifles and I have 4 of them at this time. Good shooters at a great price but it takes time and many different factory loads to find one that would shoot under 1 moa (consistently) if at all. Working up a custom round this could be done. What was the break in proceedure used, the cleaning cycle, the cool down…… Maybe this rifle was an extreme exception, benefit of the doubt. … Nice Rifle.
@BO,ya you stink, quit your know it all whining.
Hey BOhio, I’m a former Ranger sniper, and I own the original 110BA in 300win mag, and with factory hornady match 195grn BTHPs I get .30 moa groups all day long. I shoot 1.5″ groups at 400 hrs and kill coyotes at 600yds at a ful throttle run. Savage rifles CAN produce that accuracy.
Yep, sure you do. Put your money where your mouth is. How about $1k? Not too much, not too little. Shoot five consecutive 5-shot groups with that rifle and that ammo you mention, at 100y. Have somebody video the experiment, including real-time video of the targets as the groups are shot. If the average of those five groups is 0.35″ or better — measured center-to-center by a benchrest match scorer, then I’ll send you $1k. If the average is bigger, then you send me $1k, and I’ll donate it to the NRA (of which I’m already a Life Member) or Wounded Warriors or some other worthy cause.
Deal?
@Charlie Brown, you pathetic cretin (look it up, or ask mommy to), go back to playing with your Legos, and let the adults talk.
Where is your video? You’re full of shit.
I’ve shot 2″ groups at 200yds with my 22″ barreled, factory pull non-accutriggered Savage .270 using 150gr. core lokt PSP’s from walmart. I’d say the aforementioned groups could be within the realm of possibilities. I will say I have 5-25×50 Zeiss optics on it though.
This looks like a really cool shooter. I have a pair of model 12’s, one in 204 Ruger and one in 22-250. LOVE them both! The 22-250 has killed more deer than I can shake a stick at. Anyways….cool gun! Good article!
Great article/review. It was (80’s -90’s) common knowledge but rarely addressed that if you took ten Savage bolt rifles and shot them against ten entry level bolt guns from the other big three manufactures: Savage average accuracy would far exceed the others. Its been awhile since I worked a Savage but it looks like they still deliver: whether on a budget or not.