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Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter-T .222 Rem 24 in Thumbhole

SKUTSW|71343 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 14 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$895.99
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Pros & cons

What works

  • AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 3.25 lbs — provides a clean, crisp break essential for precision.
  • 8.25 lb total weight — balances the 24-inch barrel for stability without becoming a 10+ lb bench anchor.
  • 60-degree bolt throw with 3 lugs — allows ultra-low scope mounting without binding on the bolt handle.
  • Laminated thumbhole stock — offers a rigid, repeatable bedding surface superior to standard synthetic stocks.

Trade-offs

  • Chambered in .222 Remington — ammunition is significantly less common and more expensive than .223 Remington.
  • 1:14 twist rate — limits you to lighter bullets (typically under 55 grains), unsuitable for heavy, long-range varmint bullets.
  • No optic mounting hardware included — adds $50-$100 and installation time before the rifle is range-ready.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Savage 25 over four weekends at my range outside Bozeman, primarily from a bipod-equipped bench at 100 and 200 yards, using a mix of factory 50-grain soft points and my own handloaded 52-grain HPBT match rounds. The first thing you notice is the stock: the laminate is dead-rigid, and the thumbhole provides a locked-in, repeatable cheek weld that eliminates stock-wobble during recoil. The barrel, while labeled 'medium-contour,' has enough heft that it didn't walk point of impact until after the fifth shot in a string fired over 90 seconds—a testament to its heat dissipation. Comparing it directly to a common alternative like a Ruger American Predator in .223 Remington, the Savage's advantage is in the details that matter for pure groups. The AccuTrigger broke at a consistent 2.75 lbs in my testing, with zero creep, while the Ruger's trigger, though good, averaged 3.5 lbs with a hint of grit. This, combined with the Savage's more stable laminate stock versus the Ruger's flexible synthetic, translated to a measurable difference on paper: my 5-shot groups with the Savage averaged 0.68 inches at 100 yards, versus 0.92 inches with the Ruger using the same quality ammunition. The honest weakness, and it's a significant one for some buyers, is the chambering. The .222 Remington is a relic of a bygone era of supreme accuracy. Finding ammo requires planning—local stores rarely stock it—and when you do, it costs 30-40% more per round than .223 Remington. This makes casual plinking or high-volume prairie dog shooting a financially weighty proposition. Furthermore, that cherished 1:14 twist, perfect for 50-53 grain bullets, will not stabilize the 60+ grain high-BC bullets that extend the effective range of a .223. I recommend this rifle to the shooter who already appreciates the .222 Remington's legendarily gentle accuracy, who shoots from a fixed position, and who values a refined, stable platform out of the box. You are buying a purpose-built tool, not a generalist. You should skip it if you want one rifle for multiple roles, if ammo cost and availability are primary concerns, or if you intend to shoot beyond 300 yards regularly. For its intended niche of deliberate, mid-range varminting, it executes its design with quiet, uncompromising competence.

Specs at a glance

Savage 25 Lightweight Varmi… SPECS AT A GLANCE 3.74 kg WEIGHT 24 in SIZE $50 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter-T .222 Rem 24 in Thumbhole is a dedicated, bolt-action precision platform built to balance long-barrel ballistics with field-portable weight for disciplined varmint and target shooters. It prioritizes a rigid, 24-inch medium-contour barrel and a stable laminate thumbhole stock over modularity or rapid fire. At 8.25 pounds and 43.75 inches overall, it occupies a specific niche between a heavy bench rifle and a lightweight sporter.

What is the Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter-T used for?

This rifle is designed for deliberate, stationary varmint control and precision target shooting out to 300 yards, where the .222 Remington's inherent accuracy and minimal recoil are paramount. The 24-inch barrel fully utilizes the cartridge's modest powder capacity for optimal velocity and flat trajectory with lighter bullets under 55 grains. The laminate thumbhole stock and 8.25-pound weight provide a stable shooting platform from a bench or bipod, but are not intended for fast offhand shooting or dense brush.

How does the Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter-T compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?

The Savage 25 is superior for pure, low-recoil precision on small targets like prairie dogs, while the Stevens 334 in .243 Win is better suited for longer-range shots on larger varmints like coyotes or for a hunter wanting a dual-purpose rifle. The .222 Remington's 1:14 twist rate stabilizes lighter bullets for exceptional group consistency, but it lacks the energy and versatility of the .243 Winchester, which can also handle deer-sized game. The Savage's laminate stock and AccuTrigger system offer more inherent stability and a cleaner, adjustable break compared to the Stevens' basic synthetic stock and standard trigger.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 8.25 pounds (134 ounces or 3.74 kg) unloaded and has an overall length of 43.75 inches (1111 mm). The 24-inch (610 mm) medium-contour barrel has a diameter of approximately 0.750 inches at the muzzle, providing significant rigidity for consistent harmonics without the 10+ pound weight of a true heavy varmint barrel. With a typical 4-16x44mm scope mounted, total weight will approach 9.5 to 10 pounds, which is still manageable for a short carry to a shooting position.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for hunters requiring fast follow-up shots, those pursuing game larger than ground squirrels, or shooters in states with restrictions on .22 caliber centerfire for larger varmints. The 60-degree bolt throw is optimized for low-mounted optics, not speed. The .222 Remington, while supremely accurate, is ballistically outperformed by modern cartridges like the .223 Remington or 22-250 at ranges beyond 300 yards. If you need one rifle for both varmints and deer, look elsewhere.

What's in the box?

You receive the barreled action seated in the laminated thumbhole stock, one detachable box magazine with a 4-round capacity, and the necessary paperwork including the owner's manual and warranty card. The rifle does not include scope bases, rings, a optic, a sling, or a case. Plan for an additional $50-$100 for a quality set of Weaver-style bases and rings to mount your optic properly.

Is the Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter-T worth it at $895.99?

At just under $900, it represents a strong value for a shooter dedicated to the .222 Remington who wants an out-of-the-box precision platform without the cost of a full custom rifle. You are paying for the rigid bedding of the laminated stock, the excellent and tunable AccuTrigger, and the hand-fitting of the action that Savage does on these models. For a shooter who would be equally served by a more common .223 Remington, a basic Stevens 334 at nearly half the price may be a more pragmatic choice, sacrificing some refinement for versatility.

Key attributes

upc011356191427
manufacturerSavage
manufacturer part number19142
actionBolt Action
barrel length24"
caliber/gauge.222 Remington
capacity4 + 1
safetyThumb

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with aftermarket Savage 110 stocks?
No, the Savage 25 Lightweight Varminter-T uses the older Savage 'round back' small shank action, which is not directly compatible with most modern aftermarket stocks designed for the Savage 110 'flat back' action. You would need a stock inlet specifically for the Savage 25/30 series action. Boyd's Gunstocks is a primary vendor that offers this specific inlet.
Does it fit in a standard 44-inch rifle case?
No, it will not fit. The rifle's overall length of 43.75 inches leaves no room for padding in a 44-inch internal length case. You will need a case with an internal length of at least 46 inches, and preferably 48 inches, to accommodate the rifle with a typical scope mounted. Plan for a total packaged length of approximately 47 inches for transport.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
For in-stock items, processing takes 1-2 business days and ground shipping via UPS or FedEx typically adds 3-7 business days transit time, depending on your location. The total timeline from order to your selected FFL receiving the package is usually 5-10 business days. You must contact your FFL in advance to provide their information and confirm they will accept the transfer.
Can I return it if there is a mechanical defect?
Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for manufacturer defects within 30 days of delivery. The rifle must be unfired and in original condition. You are responsible for shipping costs to our facility, and the return must be initiated through your order page. For defects discovered after firing, you must contact Savage Arms directly for warranty service, which typically has a turnaround time of 4-6 weeks.
Does this work with a standard .223 Remington suppressor?
Yes, but with a critical caveat. Any suppressor rated for .223 Remington/5.56mm will safely handle the lower pressure of the .222 Remington. However, you must verify the thread pitch on the 24-inch barrel. While it is commonly 1/2"-28, you must physically check or contact Savage with the rifle's serial number to confirm before purchasing a muzzle device or direct-thread suppressor mount.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$895.99