Savage Model 42 Takedown FDE .22 LR/.410 Combo
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Savage Model 42 Takedown FDE .22 LR/.410 Combo? It is a single-shot, takedown-capable combination firearm featuring a .22 LR rimfire barrel mounted over a .410 bore shotgun barrel, designed for utilitarian field use. This firearm represents one of the most mechanically straightforward ways to meet the demands of a multi-role small-game and pest-control tool, housed in a weather-resistant synthetic stock.
What is the Savage Model 42 Takedown FDE used for?
This firearm is engineered for small-game hunting and pest control at ranges under 50 yards. Its .22 LR barrel provides precision for squirrels and rabbits, while the .410 bore offers a versatile pattern for birds or close-quarters use; the design explicitly trades a high rate of fire for mechanical reliability, making it unsuitable for defensive applications or volume target shooting.
How does the Savage Model 42 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U .410?
The Model 42 is a better choice for survival kits or vehicle storage than the over-under shotgun. While the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun in .410 Bore offers two rapid shots and superior handling for clay sports, the Model 42 breaks down to a 21-inch packaged length, weighs 6.1 lbs (0.8 lbs lighter than the Stevens 555), and introduces a rimfire capability, making it a superior dedicated tool for field utility where compact transport is paramount.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The firearm weighs 6.10 lbs (2.77 kg) and measures 35.75 inches in overall length. Broken down with the included case, the packaged length is approximately 21 inches, fitting easily into a large backpack or vehicle compartment; this takedown configuration directly addresses the need for discreet transport common among trappers and backcountry users.
Who is this NOT for?
This firearm is not for anyone seeking a defensive weapon, a target rifle, or a dedicated shotgun. The single-shot design imposes a significant tactical limitation, and the 1:16 twist rate on the .22 LR barrel is optimized for standard velocity rounds, not match-grade ammunition, making consistent sub-MOA groups unrealistic beyond 75 yards.
What's in the box?
The package includes the takedown firearm, one takedown carry case, and basic documentation. You receive exactly one combination gun; you must source ammunition, optics (the rear sight is removable), and a sling separately, a reality that adds roughly $100-200 to the initial outlay for a functional field-ready setup.
Is the Savage Model 42 Takedown worth it at $537.99?
At $537.99, it offers solid value for the specialized user who requires a takedown design and dual-caliber versatility. For generalists, a dedicated .243 Winchester rifle provides far better ballistics for deer, making the Model 42 a compromise; however, for its intended niche of a packable, dual-purpose tool, the price is competitive given the cost of sourcing two separate specialty firearms.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Takedown design reduces packaged length to 21 inches — critical for discreet field transport.
- 6.10 lb weight is manageable for all-day carry, notably lighter than many bolt-action rifles.
- Dual-caliber capability (.22 LR and .410) eliminates the need to carry a separate shotgun in many scenarios.
- FDE synthetic stock provides weather resistance superior to traditional walnut finishes.
Trade-offs
- Single-shot action is a severe tactical limitation, requiring a full 8-second reload cycle under ideal conditions.
- Non-threaded barrel adds $110+ and a 3-week wait for suppressor compatibility — a significant oversight for a utilitarian tool.
- Basic open sights lack windage adjustment, limiting precision beyond 50 yards without an optic.
Key attributes
| upc | 062654230042 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 23004 |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 1rd |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 7.5 |
| sights | Post Front/Open V Notch Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with a suppressor on the .22 LR barrel?
- The rifle barrel is not threaded from the factory, so direct suppressor attachment requires aftermarket threading by a qualified gunsmith, adding an average cost of $110 and a 3-week lead time. Ensure compliance with all NFA regulations before proceeding with such a modification.
- Does it fit a standard rifle case?
- The 21-inch takedown package fits into most large tactical backpacks or hard-sided pistol cases. For a standard 42-inch rifle case, you would assemble the firearm to its full 35.75-inch length for transport, negating the primary benefit of the takedown design.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory ships to your selected FFL dealer within 2 business days via UPS Ground. Transit time then depends on your location, but the average delivery window from our Montana warehouse is 3-6 business days across the continental United States.
- Can I mount a red dot sight on this firearm?
- Yes, the removable rear sight provides a mounting point for an optic base, but you must purchase a specific Picatinny rail adapter (not included). I recommend the EGW Savage 42 base, which requires torquing to 15-18 in-lbs and will add approximately 0.9 oz to the overall weight.