Savage 220 Thumbhole Slug Gun 20ga 22in
Pros & cons
What works
- 1:24 twist button-rifled barrel delivers 1.5 MOA groups with Federal Premium sabot slugs
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds pull weight—1.5 pounds lighter than most factory triggers
- 13.75-inch length of pull fits 95% of adult shooters without modification
- Drilled and tapped receiver accepts standard Savage 110 pattern bases
Trade-offs
- 7.3-pound weight is 1.2 pounds heavier than synthetic-stocked slug guns
- 2-round magazine capacity limits follow-up shots compared to tube-fed shotguns
- No iron sights included—requires $50-150 optic mounting solution
- Gray laminate stock shows wear scratches more visibly than synthetic alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
Savage 220 Thumbhole Slug Gun 20ga 22in
The Savage 220 Thumbhole is a bolt-action slug gun engineered to deliver rifle-grade accuracy in a 20-gauge platform with a button-rifled 22-inch barrel and user-adjustable AccuTrigger system. Unlike conventional shotguns optimized for birdshot patterns, this model employs a dedicated rifled barrel and thumbhole stock specifically for single-projectile ammunition. Built on Savage's proven bolt-action platform, it bridges the gap between traditional smoothbores and centerfire rifles for regulated slug zones.
What is the Savage 220 Thumbhole Slug Gun used for?
This firearm is purpose-built for deer hunting in jurisdictions that mandate shotguns or prohibit rifles, delivering sub-2 MOA accuracy with sabot slugs at 150 yards. The 20-gauge chambering reduces recoil by approximately 30% compared to 12-gauge slug guns while maintaining ethical terminal performance on medium game. The thumbhole stock and 13.75-inch length of pull provide a stable shooting platform for offhand or supported positions in dense cover.
How does the Savage 220 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win?
The Savage 220 specializes in regulated shotgun-only zones where the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win would be illegal, trading long-range capability for regulatory compliance. While the Stevens 334 delivers superior ballistics beyond 200 yards with its .308 Winchester chambering, the Savage 220's 20-gauge platform remains legal in shotgun-only counties and produces 40% less felt recoil. For hunters operating under firearm restrictions, the 220 provides precision unmatched by smoothbore slug guns.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.3 pounds with an overall length of 41.5 inches and barrel length of 22 inches. The gray laminate thumbhole stock contributes to the balanced 7.3-pound weight distribution, which is 1.2 pounds heavier than synthetic-stocked alternatives but provides superior stability. The 13.75-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification, while the 22-inch barrel maintains maneuverability in blind or stand hunting scenarios.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is ill-suited for waterfowl hunters or those requiring high-capacity shooting, as the 2-round magazine and rifled barrel cannot legally fire birdshot. The thumbhole stock design adds 0.8 pounds over conventional stocks and may not fit shooters with shorter arms or those requiring quick target acquisition on moving game. For versatile field use including bird hunting, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle with installed 2-round detachable magazine, one-piece Picatinny rail mounted to drilled and tapped receiver, and owner's manual with AccuTrigger adjustment instructions. Notably absent are optic rings or bases—expect to budget $50-150 for quality mounts—and the factory provides no choke tubes since the barrel is permanently rifled for slugs only. The manual includes specific torque specifications for rail mounting at 18-20 inch-pounds.
Is the Savage 220 worth it at $802.99?
At $802.99, this represents premium pricing for a dedicated slug gun but justifies the cost through precision machining and regulatory specificity that cheaper smoothbores cannot match. The AccuTrigger system alone adds $75-100 value over fixed triggers, while the button-rifled barrel provides consistent 1:24 twist rifling that typically adds $150-200 to custom work. For hunters facing shotgun-only restrictions who demand rifle-like accuracy, this investment eliminates the guesswork of adapting bird guns to slug duty.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356223135 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 22313 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| color | Black |
| length | 49.0500 |
| model | 220 |
| shipping weight | 10.05 |
| sights | Optic Ready |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 20-gauge slugs?
- Yes, it accepts all 2¾-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge slugs, but achieves optimal accuracy with sabot designs due to the 1:24 twist rate. Avoid using foster-style slugs in this rifled barrel as they can cause excessive leading and accuracy degradation after 20-30 rounds.
- Does the rail accept red dot optics?
- The included one-piece Picatinny rail accommodates any standard red dot mount, though I recommend low-profile rings from Warne or Leupold to maintain cheek weld. The receiver is drilled and tapped with 6-48 threads at standard spacing, accepting most bases designed for Savage short actions.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping taking 3-5 additional days to your selected FFL. All shipments require signature confirmation and adult signature upon delivery verification per ATF regulations.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired firearms in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs. Once the firearm has been transferred through an FFL, returns require coordination with both the receiving dealer and Ironclad Armory's compliance department.