To many firearm enthusiasts, a bolt-action scattergun is a utilitarian budget gun from the mid-20th century that is long out of vogue. To many whitetail hunters in areas where firearms hunting is restricted to shotguns only, a bolt-action slug gun is the best option to fill a tag. For those hunters, Savage has released an update of its classic 212 and 220 models.
Starting with the Model 210 at the end of the 20th century, Savage has long had a bolt-action shotgun in its lineup. In 2010, the company introduced the 20-gauge Model 220, followed by the 12-gauge Model 212 a year later. Both models quickly earned a reputation for accuracy in their rifled slug models. Over the years, the company upgraded both models with the improvements they added to the 110 bolt-action centerfire rifles that the shotguns are based on. This included the addition of Accu-Triggers and AccuFit stocks in 2019.
Savage has introduced major upgrades to its 110 models this year and now they are bringing those “next generation” upgrades to the 220 and 212. The major improvement is the new AccuFit V2 stock. Featuring adjustable length-of-pull and comb height with the company’s Quick Set Dial (QSD) system, allowing for up to 0.8 inches of comb height modification and 1 inch of length-of-pull adjustment, in 1/8-inch increments. Interchangeable grip modules allow for further fit customization. A LimbSaver recoil pad gives a promised 50-percent reduction in recoil. On the front end, the stock has M-LOK slots with integral ARCA rail.
The action has been upgraded with a threaded-on bolt handle. Sans iron sights, the slugsters come with a 0-MOA rail for mounting reflexive or magnified optics. Their 22-inch barrels are full rifled and both gauges feed from a detachable box magazine that holds two rounds. User-adjustable AccuTriggers are still standard.
The new 220 and 212 Harvesters are available in two configurations. The base Harvester model combines a Flat Dark Gray stock with matte blued metal parts, with an MSRP of $829 for the 220 and $929 for the 212. The Harvester Woodland has a Savage Woodland camouflage stock and a Gun Metal Bronze Cerakote finish on metal parts, with an MSRP of $969 for the 220 model and $1,069 for the 212. Left-handed versions of both models are available in the 20-gauge 220.
For more information on the Savage 220 and 212 Harvester, see the company’s website.
