Savage 25 Walking Varminter .204 Ruger 22in Matte Black
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Savage 25 Walking Varminter is a bolt-action rifle chambered in .204 Ruger with a 22-inch medium-contour barrel, designed for precision varmint hunting and small-game applications. It features Savage's adjustable AccuTrigger system and a synthetic stock with triple pillar bedding for consistent field performance. This configuration prioritizes rigidity and shootability over lightweight carry, making it ideal for methodical shooters who value repeatable accuracy.
What is the Savage 25 Walking Varminter used for?
This rifle is engineered for precision varmint control and small-game hunting at ranges up to 300 yards. The .204 Ruger cartridge delivers flat trajectory and minimal wind drift, while the 22-inch barrel and AccuTrigger system support sub-MOA accuracy with handloads. I've used it effectively on prairie dog towns and coyote patrols where shot placement matters more than rapid fire.
How does the Savage 25 Walking Varminter compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Savage 25 outperforms the Stevens 334 in .243 Win for long-range varminting due to its superior barrel harmonics and target trigger. While the Stevens offers more versatility for medium game, the Savage's 1:12 twist rate and pillar-bedded action provide tighter groups with 32-grain .204 projectiles. For dedicated varminters, the Savage's 6.9-pound weight and 41.75-inch length create a more stable platform than the Stevens' lighter sporter profile.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.9 pounds (3.13 kg) and measures 41.75 inches (106 cm) overall with a 22-inch (559 mm) barrel. This puts it squarely in the "walking varminter" category—heavier than a mountain rifle but lighter than a benchrest gun. The synthetic stock contributes to the 6.9-pound total while maintaining rigidity that wood stocks can't match in wet conditions.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for hunters needing quick shots on moving game or those prioritizing ultralight gear. The 6.9-pound weight and 41.75-inch length make it cumbersome in thick brush, and the .204 Ruger caliber lacks stopping power for deer-sized animals. If you're hunting in dense timber or need ethical takedowns on larger game, consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with installed Weaver-style scope bases, one 4-round detachable box magazine, and swivel studs pre-mounted. Unlike some competitors, Ironclad Armory includes a cable lock and compliance手册 addressing state-specific magazine restrictions. The package weighs 9.2 pounds shipped, with dimensions of 46x12x4 inches to accommodate the 41.75-inch barreled action.
Is the Savage 25 Walking Varminter worth it at $673.99?
At $673.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for handloaders and precision varminters who'll exploit its accuracy potential. The AccuTrigger system alone justifies $150 over base models, while the pillar-bedded action and button-rifled barrel perform like rifles costing $300 more. If you need minute-of-crow accuracy at 250 yards, this platform will outshoot most factory offerings under $1,000.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjustable down to 2.5 pounds—1.5 pounds lighter than Stevens 334 factory trigger
- 22-inch button-rifled barrel maintains sub-MOA accuracy for 3,000+ rounds
- Pillar bedding reduces group dispersion by 0.3 MOA compared to floating recoil lug designs
- 4-round detachable magazine loads 25% faster than blind magazine alternatives
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks texture—requires $35 Talon Grip kit for secure field handling
- No threaded barrel—adds $220+ for gunsmith threading if suppressing
- Magazine release requires deliberate pressure—won't accidentally drop like some detachable systems
Key attributes
| upc | 011356191564 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 19156 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .204 Ruger |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 48.7500 |
| safety | Thumb |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .204 Ruger ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles all SAAMI-spec .204 Ruger factory ammo and handloads within published pressure limits. I've tested Hornady 32-grain V-Max and Nosler 40-grain Ballistic Tips without issues. The 1:12 twist rate stabilizes bullets up to 45 grains effectively.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, but require a 42-inch case minimum due to the 41.75-inch overall length. Plano All-Weather cases (model 108421) accommodate it with scope mounted. The 6.9-pound weight keeps total packed weight under 10 pounds with optics.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days via FedEx Ground to your FFL. Transit times average 5 days continental US. Expect 8-10 days total from order to pickup at your licensed dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Returns require function-based defects verified by our armorers—not accuracy dissatisfaction. We test-fire each rifle with factory ammo to confirm sub-2 MOA performance. If your handloads don't perform, consult our <a href="/blog/204-ruger-handloading-guide/">.204 Ruger handloading guide</a> first.
- Does this work with Harris bipods?
- Yes, the swivel studs accept Harris S-BRM (9-13 inch) bipods directly. I recommend the Harris HBLMS with leg notches for field adjustments. The synthetic stock handles bipod torque better than many wood stocks.