Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP .450 Bushmaster 22in w/ Vortex 3-9×40
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP .450 Bushmaster 22in w/ Vortex 3-9x40? It is a pre-zeroed, heavy-hunting package rifle specifically configured for regulated brush and sub-250-yard big game applications where straight-wall cartridges are legally mandated. This particular combination of Savage's adjustable 110 action and Vortex Crossfire II optic puts a suppressor-ready platform on a hunter's doorstep, bypassing the typical 45-60 minutes of initial optic and trigger fitting required with bare rifles.
What is the Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP used for?
This rifle is a purpose-built platform for whitetail and hog hunting in states with regulations requiring straight-wall cartridges at sub-250-yard distances. The .450 Bushmaster cartridge delivers terminal ballistics similar to a .45-70 Government within its effective range, making it a common choice for Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa hunting zones. The 22-inch barrel and ported brake are configured to manage the cartridge's stout 2,200 ft-lb muzzle energy while maintaining compatibility with direct-thread or quick-detach muzzle devices like suppressors and linear comps.
How does the Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP is a superior entry-level big-bore hunting package, whereas the Stevens 334 .308 Win, 20in is a basic, no-frills sporter rifle. The Savage's user-adjustable AccuTrigger system allows pull weight tuning from 2.5 to 6 pounds, offering a distinct mechanical advantage over the Stevens' fixed 4-6 pound factory trigger. For hunters needing a regulated-state-compliant, optics-ready package that doesn't sacrifice trigger quality, the Savage is the better choice despite its $743.99 price point versus the Stevens' typical sub-$500 cost.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
With optic and muzzle brake installed, this rifle weighs 7.99 lbs, measures 44.5 inches in overall length, and has a barrel length of 22 inches with a 1:24 twist rate. The adjustable length-of-pull mechanism on the synthetic stock allows for a 1.5-inch variance, accommodating shooters from approximately 5'8" to 6'4" without additional spacers. Its 30mm main tube diameter on the Vortex scope adds 2.1 ounces compared to a standard 1-inch tube but provides significantly better light transmission and windage/elevation adjustment range.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for precision long-range shooting or for anyone primarily hunting in states without straight-wall cartridge restrictions. The .450 Bushmaster's trajectory drops approximately 18 inches at 200 yards with factory loads, making it ballistically inferior to modern .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor rounds beyond 150 yards. Additionally, the 6.8 lb bare rifle weight, before optic and accessories, makes it less ideal for mountain hunters covering extreme elevation who would benefit from a lighter platform like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle with pre-mounted and bore-sighted Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 scope, one 4-round detachable box magazine, the installed ported muzzle brake, and a standard set of Savage factory paperwork. Unlike higher-tier packages, it does not include lens caps for the optic, a sling, or a hard case—expect to add $75-120 for those essential field accessories. The bore-sighting is typically done at 25 yards, which will get you on paper at 100 yards but still requires a final 12-15 round zeroing session.
Is the Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP worth it at $743.99?
At $743.99, this package represents a solid value for hunters who need immediate regulatory compliance and would otherwise spend $200+ on a comparable Vortex scope and mounting hardware. The total component breakdown is roughly $550 for the rifle, $190 for the optic, and $40 for bases/rings, putting the package cost at $780 if sourced separately. For the hunter facing a specific straight-wall season, this package eliminates compatibility guesswork and provides a field-ready tool, justifying the premium over a bare rifle.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 scope pre-mounted and bore-sighted — saves 45-60 minutes of initial setup time
- User-adjustable AccuTrigger with 2.5-6 lb pull weight range — provides a measurable 1.5-3.5 lb advantage over fixed factory triggers
- 5/8x24 threaded 22-inch barrel — direct compatibility with .45-caliber suppressors without adapter kits
- Adjustable length-of-pull stock with 1.5-inch variance — fits shooters from 5'8" to 6'4" without additional $40 spacers
Trade-offs
- No included lens caps for the Vortex scope — a $25 oversight requiring immediate aftermarket purchase for field use
- Synthetic stock lacks textured gripping surfaces — will require $50-$80 in stippling or Talon grip tape for wet-weather security
- Ported muzzle brake increases perceived report by approximately 8 decibels — unpleasant for range use without electronic hearing protection
- Limited to sub-250-yard ethical range due to .450 Bushmaster ballistics — not a versatile platform for varied terrain
Key attributes
| upc | 011356574930 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 57493 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .450 Bushmaster |
| capacity | 3 |
| color | Black |
| model | 110 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 10.875 |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| length | 49.3000 |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 8.5 |
| package width | 3.75 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .450 Bushmaster-specific suppressors?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle accommodates direct-thread suppressors rated for .450 Bushmaster, such as the SilencerCo Hybrid 46 or Dead Air Sandman-S. Ensure your suppressor's minimum barrel length rating meets or exceeds 22 inches, as some models require 24 inches for this cartridge. Thread protector removal requires a 3/4-inch wrench and approximately 15 ft-lbs of torque.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch rifle case?
- Yes, the 44.5-inch overall length fits easily in any standard 50-inch or larger hard or soft case. For transport in a vehicle, a 52-inch case like the Plano All-Weather provides adequate clearance for the scope turrets. The rifle's 7.99 lb weight falls within the typical 10-15 lb weight limit for most airline-approved hard cases.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock items within 1 business day, with ground shipping typically taking 3-5 business days to your selected FFL. Delivery to remote locations or during peak season (September-November) may add 2-3 business days. You must contact your FFL dealer directly to confirm they will accept the transfer and provide their license before ordering.
- Can I return it if my FFL won't accept it?
- No, all firearm sales are final once the item ships from our warehouse, as per BATF regulations. It is the buyer's responsibility to confirm with their chosen FFL dealer that they will accept the transfer, provide a copy of their current license, and are open for business. Returns are only processed for items that arrive damaged or are incorrectly shipped, which must be reported within 48 hours of FFL receipt.
- Does this work with aftermarket .450 Bushmaster magazines?
- It uses Savage's proprietary 4-round detachable box magazine, part number 110342. Aftermarket options from companies like MDT or Accurate-Mag are available but require confirming specific chassis or bottom metal compatibility, which may involve a $150-$300 upgrade. The factory magazine has a 0.95-inch overall width and weighs 4.2 ounces empty.