NRA Gun of the Week: Savage Arms Impulse Hog Hunter

The Savage Arms Impulse Hog Hunter is the Westfield, Mass., gunmaker’s latest innovative introduction. Though Savage continues with its highly successful and, accurate, turn-bolt rifles, the Impulse is in a class of its own and stands to rival much pricier European straight-pull designs.


The Impulse Hog Hunter, like all other Savage rifles provides a hand-straightened, carbon steel barrel that is button rifled to achieve m.o.a.-capable accuracy. The trigger unit is the user-adjustable AccuTrigger and, completing the package is another known quantity from Savage—AccuStock with AccuFit.


Considering the gun’s straight-pull design with barrel-to-bolt lockup, Savage is afforded the use of aluminum with making the receiver. This also helps to lighten the gun’s weight and allows for a heavier, medium-contour barrel. American Rifleman’s Impulse Hog Hunter sample arrived chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor, but Savage has taken steps to provide consumers with options for .308 Win., .30-’06 Sprg., and .300 Win. Mag. Overall weight will vary between 8.4 lbs., and 9.1 lbs., respectively.


A Picatinny-style rail runs the full length of the receiver’s top. The rail section is integral to the receiver and sports 20 m.o.a. of cant. Along the bottom, just forward of the enlarged trigger guard is the flush-fit detachable box magazine.


Our experience on the range with this new American-made rifle system was eye opening. It is apparent that Savage looked at many successful designs and came to market with one that American consumers should love. The action is fast and smooth, and the overall balance and functionality was a joy to handle.


Watch our NRA Gun of the Week video above to see the Savage Impulse in action.

Savage Arms Impulse Hog Hunter Specifications
Manufacturer: Savage Arms
Action Type: straight-pull, bolt-action rifle
Chambering: 6.5 Creedmoor
Receiver: aluminum, matte-black finish
Stock: OD Green, adjustable, AccuStock
Magazine: four-round detachable box
Length: 41.5”
Weight: 8 lbs., 8 ozs.
MSRP: $1,379

Further Reading:
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A Serious Rifle Maker's Take On A Series Shotgun

Savage Arms Shotguns: A Brief History

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