Savage Mark I FVT Bolt-Action Rifle, Heavy Barrel
About this product
The Savage Mark I FVT is a full-size bolt-action rimfire rifle designed specifically for competitive target shooting and precision training. Built on Savage's proven rimfire action, it incorporates serious upgrades over standard plinking rifles while maintaining the affordability that made the platform famous. This isn't your grandfather's .22 squirrel gun—it's a purpose-built tool for developing marksmanship fundamentals.
What is the Savage Mark I FVT used for?
The Mark I FVT is designed for competitive small-bore shooting and serious marksmanship training. Its 1:16 twist heavy barrel and target crown are optimized for standard velocity .22 LR ammunition, producing consistent sub-MOA groups at 50 yards when fired from a stable rest. The adjustable peep sights are calibrated for precise windage and elevation adjustments, making it ideal for NRA-sanctioned rimfire silhouette or bullseye matches.
How does the Savage Mark I FVT compare to the CZ 457 Training Rifle?
The Savage Mark I FVT offers better value for entry-level competitive shooters, costing approximately $200 less than the CZ 457 Training Rifle. While the CZ features a more refined stainless-steel barrel and European walnut stock, the Savage's AccuTrigger system provides a cleaner break at 2.5 pounds out of the box. For shooters prioritizing trigger quality and budget over cosmetic finish, the Savage delivers nearly identical mechanical accuracy.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded and measures 40.5 inches in overall length with its 25-inch heavy barrel. The barrel diameter measures 0.920 inches at the muzzle, providing significant mass to dampen vibration and reduce heat buildup during extended range sessions. The length of pull is 13.75 inches, suited for adult shooters but potentially long for younger competitors without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for hunters needing quick follow-up shots or casual plinkers wanting lightweight handling. The 6.8-pound weight and 40.5-inch length make it cumbersome for carrying through dense brush, while the fixed synthetic stock lacks the quick-adjustment features of modern tactical platforms. If you need a versatile field rifle, consider the lighter Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, one 5-round single-stack magazine, and basic sight adjustment tools. The packaging includes a standard gun lock and owner's manual outlining the AccuTrigger adjustment procedure. Notably absent are additional magazines or a sling—plan on purchasing at least two spare magazines ($25 each) for competitive use.
Is the Savage Mark I FVT worth it at $515.99?
At $515.99, the Mark I FVT represents exceptional value for serious rimfire competitors on a budget. The combination of a true target-grade barrel, adjustable peep sights, and the excellent AccuTrigger system would cost significantly more if purchased as aftermarket upgrades. For comparison, upgrading a basic Stevens 555 shotgun with competition features would exceed this rifle's total cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 25-inch heavy barrel (0.920" diameter) — reduces harmonic vibration for consistent groups
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 1.5 pounds — cleaner break than most factory rimfire triggers
- Target-crowned muzzle — protects rifling and improves shot-to-shot consistency
- Adjustable peep sights — precise windage/elevation clicks for competition use
Trade-offs
- Proprietary single-stack magazines — limits aftermarket options compared to common Mark II pattern
- Non-threaded barrel on FVT model — requires gunsmith work for suppressor attachment ($75-150)
- Fixed synthetic stock — lacks adjustability for different body types or shooting positions
- 40.5-inch overall length — cumbersome for transport in standard rifle cases
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 062654289002 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 28900 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 21" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1 |
| length | 42 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 7.25 |
| sights | Peep Sights |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Savage Mark II magazines?
- No, the Mark I FVT uses proprietary single-stack magazines that are not interchangeable with the more common Mark II pattern. The magazine well is specifically designed for the narrower .22 LR rimfire cartridge stack. You'll need to source Mark I-specific magazines from Savage or authorized dealers.
- Does it come drilled and tapped for scope mounts?
- Yes, the receiver includes standard 3/8-inch dovetail grooves for rimfire scope mounting. The grooves are cut to SAAMI specifications and will accept any common .22 scope rings without additional drilling. I recommend using a 1-inch medium-height ring set for optimal sight alignment.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Firearm shipments to licensed FFL dealers typically take 3-5 business days after processing. All orders require valid FFL information from the receiving dealer before shipment. Contact your local FFL dealer first to ensure they accept transfers from online retailers.
- Can I adjust the trigger pull weight myself?
- Yes, the AccuTrigger system includes a user-adjustable spring that allows pull weight reduction from the factory 2.5 pounds down to approximately 1.5 pounds. The adjustment requires a 3/32-inch hex key and careful following of the manual's instructions to maintain safety mechanism function.
- Does this work with suppressor attachments?
- The 1/2x28 threaded barrel version accepts standard .22 LR suppressors, but the FVT model shown features a target crown without threads. For suppressed shooting, you'd need to have a gunsmith thread the muzzle or purchase the threaded-barrel variant (model number Mark I FV-SR).