Savage Impulse Driven Hunter 6.5mm Creedmoor 20″ 4+1
About this product
The Savage ImpULSE Driven Hunter is a straight-pull bolt-action rifle chambered in 6.5mm Creedmoor designed for rapid follow-up shots during driven hunts while maintaining traditional bolt-action accuracy. Built around Savage's innovative straight-pull mechanism, this 20-inch barreled rifle delivers the speed advantages of a lever-action with the inherent safety and precision of a bolt gun. At 6.90 pounds and 41.25 inches overall, it balances maneuverability with stable shooting platforms.
What is the Savage Impulse Driven Hunter used for?
This rifle is specifically engineered for driven hunts where quick target acquisition and rapid cycling are critical. The straight-pull action allows cycling in under 2 seconds versus 3-4 seconds with conventional bolt actions, while the 20-inch threaded barrel and 1:8 twist rate optimize 6.5mm Creedmoor ballistics for medium game at 200-400 yard ranges. Hunters appreciate the ambidextrous bolt handle and adjustable AccuFit stock for adapting to different shooting positions and clothing layers.
How does the Savage Impulse compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Impulse outperforms the Stevens 334 in cycling speed but costs $400 more. Where the Stevens 334's conventional bolt action requires 3-4 seconds for follow-up shots, the Impulse achieves similar accuracy with 2-second cycling thanks to its straight-pull mechanism. However, hunters needing absolute precision on stationary targets may prefer the Stevens 334's simpler design for its marginally better consistency in ideal conditions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.90 pounds (3126 grams) with an overall length of 41.25 inches. The 20-inch barrel features 1/2-28 threading for suppressor compatibility, while the 4-round magazine capacity keeps the profile trim for maneuvering in blinds or thick cover. The AccuStock system maintains bedding stability across temperature variations from 20°F to 100°F, ensuring consistent point of impact during full-day hunts.
Who is this NOT for?
Traditionalists who prefer classic bolt manipulation should avoid this rifle. The straight-pull mechanism requires different muscle memory than traditional bolt lifts, and the $1200 price point places it $400 above conventional hunting rifles like the Stevens series. Budget-conscious hunters seeking maximum accuracy per dollar would be better served by the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, which delivers similar ballistics with simpler mechanics.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with one 4-round detachable magazine, owner's manual, and warranty documentation. The integral 20 MOA Picatinny rail comes pre-installed, requiring no additional mounting hardware for optics. Some retailers include a thread protector, but suppressors or muzzle devices are sold separately due to NFA regulations requiring separate paperwork and tax stamps.
Is the Savage Impulse worth it at $1200.99?
At $1200.99, this rifle justifies its premium for hunters needing rapid engagement capabilities. The straight-pull mechanism provides tangible speed advantages during driven hunts where targets appear suddenly at varying distances. Compared to custom-built speedbolt conversions costing $2000+, the factory-engineered Impulse delivers 85% of the performance at 60% of the cost, making it a calculated investment for serious mobile hunters.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Straight-pull action enables 2-second follow-up shots versus 3-4 seconds with conventional bolts
- Weighs 6.90 lbs - 1.2 lbs lighter than comparable Blaser R8 straight-pull rifles
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 4.5 pounds for precise shot control
- 20 MOA integral rail maintains zero across 1000+ rounds without re-torquing
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazines cost $45 each versus $30 for standard AICS pattern mags
- No iron sights included - adds $200+ for backup sighting system
- Straight-pull mechanism requires different training than traditional bolt actions
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356579065 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 57906 |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| safety | Tang |
| length | 44.375 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 7.687 |
| package width | 2.375 |
| shipping weight | 10.25 |
| product type | Rifle |
| atf type | RIFLE |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the 20-inch barrel features 1/2-28 threading compatible with most .30 caliber suppressors. You'll need a tax stamp and approved Form 4 before mounting any suppressor, and I recommend Silencer Central's BANISH series for their modular design that handles 6.5mm Creedmoor pressures up to 62,000 PSI.
- Does it come with iron sights?
- No, the Impulse Driven Hunter ships without iron sights, relying on the integral 20 MOA Picatinny rail for optics mounting. Plan to budget $200-600 for a quality hunting scope like Vortex's Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44, which pairs well with the rifle's medium-range capabilities.
- Can left-handed shooters use this rifle?
- Yes, the ambidextrous bolt handle can be repositioned for left-hand operation in under 5 minutes using the included hex wrench. The AccuFit system adjusts length of pull and comb height to accommodate different shooting styles without favoring right-handed shooters.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically arrive within 3-7 business days via FedEx or UPS Ground. All firearms ship to licensed FFL dealers only, and you'll need to complete a background check at the receiving dealer before taking possession, which adds 1-2 business days to the process.
- Is the magazine compatible with other Savage models?
- No, the Impulse uses a proprietary magazine design specific to the straight-pull action. Replacement magazines cost approximately $45 each from Savage or authorized dealers like EuroOptic, and they're not interchangeable with traditional Savage 110 pattern magazines.