Savage Arms 64 vs. Marlin 795 Semi-Auto .22 Rifles

If you're seeking a customizable .22 plinker that stands apart from the typical Ruger, you've landed on the right page. Let's delve into the comparisons between the Marlin 795 and the Savage 64.

Savage Arms 64 Overview:

• Model 64F: Black synthetic stock, base model without sling swivel studs.
• Model 64G: Monte Carlo style, with a walnut-finished hardwood stock.
• Model 64FSS: Features a stainless finish with fiber optic sights.
• Model 64FXP: Black synthetic stock, includes a 4 x 15mm scope and rings, sling swivel studs.

The Savage 64 is an affordable, reliable, and accurate semi-automatic .22 rifle. It boasts a 21” carbon steel barrel with a blued satin finish, a detachable 10-round magazine, and a matte-finished black synthetic stock. A two-position lever safety is found behind the bolt handle. While it features open sights, it is also drilled and tapped for scope mounts. Notably, the Savage 64 FXP includes a factory-fitted 4 x 15mm scope and rings.

Marlin 795 Overview:

• Model 795: Blued barrel and receiver.
• Model 795SS: Stainless steel barrel and receiver.

The Marlin 795 is a rugged, reliable, and accurate semi-automatic .22 rifle. It features an automatic “last-shot” bolt hold open and is available in blued or stainless steel finishes. The 18” barrel comes with Micro-Groove rifling, and it has a black, fiberglass-reinforced stock with checkering and swivel studs. This rifle is equipped with an adjustable open rear sight and ramp front sight. Some models include a 4 x 32mm scope and rings.

Comparison: Marlin 795 vs. Savage 64:

Marlin 795 Features:

• Action: Bolt release lever, charging handle bolt lock, magazine-fed, “last-shot” hold open, cross bolt safety.
• Barrel: Free float 18”, Micro-Groove rifling.
• Capacity: 10-round single stacked, nickel-plated magazine.
• Twist Rate: 1:16” right-hand twist.
• Sights: Adjustable open rear sight, ramp front sight. Receiver grooved for scope mount.
• Stock: Black fiberglass synthetic, checkering, swivel studs sling mounts.
• Receiver: Aluminum.
• Trigger Pull: Reduce from 6.75 lbs to 4.5 lbs with the Marlin 795 Trigger Spring Kit.

Savage 64 Features:

• Action: No bolt release, charging handle bolt lock, magazine-fed, lever safety on top of the receiver.
• Barrel: Free float 21” carbon steel.
• Capacity: 10-round magazine.
• Twist Rate: 1:16” right-hand twist.
• Sights: Adjustable open rear sight, ramp front sight, drilled and tapped for scope mounts.
• Stock: Black matte synthetic, checkering, swivel studs sling mounts (excluded in 64F).
• Receiver: Steel.
• Trigger Pull: Reduce from 5.5 lbs to 3.75 lbs with the Savage 64 Trigger Spring Kit.

Additional Comparisons:

• Accuracy: Both rifles demonstrate commendable accuracy, with no discernible major difference.
• Magazines: Both rifles use a 10-round single stacked magazine, though the Savage 64's release is stiffer.
• Stock: The Savage 64's synthetic stock lacks a cheek rest.
• Sights: The Savage 64's front bead sight is more prominent than the Marlin 795's front blade sight.
• Triggers: Stock triggers for the Marlin 795 and Savage 64 are 6 lbs 9 oz and 5 lbs 5 oz, respectively. Upgrades are available.
• Barrels: Marlin 795 features an 18” Micro-Grooved barrel, while the Savage 64 offers a 21” barrel.
• Weights: Marlin 795 weighs 4.5 lbs, whereas the Savage 64 is slightly heavier at 5 lbs.
• Safety: The Savage 64 has a two-position lever safety at the rear, while the Marlin 795 employs a cross bolt safety in the trigger guard.

Performance Insights:

While both rifles serve as excellent choices for enthusiasts, some nuances might tip the scales for particular users:

• Ergonomics: Depending on personal preference, the absence of a cheek rest on the Savage 64 might be a downside for some users, especially during prolonged shooting sessions. On the other hand, the Marlin 795, with its slightly lighter build, can be considered more ergonomic for extended use.
• Aesthetics: While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, the walnut-finished hardwood stock option in the Savage 64G offers a more classic look compared to the more utilitarian design of the Marlin 795.
• Customization: Both rifles offer ample opportunity for customization, especially in the area of optics. The factory-included scope with the Savage 64FXP might be an added benefit for those not looking to immediately invest in aftermarket optics.
• Maintenance: The Marlin 795's Micro-Groove rifling is renowned for its reduced fouling, potentially leading to extended periods between cleanings. The Savage 64, while easy to maintain, might require more frequent cleaning sessions due to its design.
• Magazine Release: The stiffer magazine release on the Savage 64 might be a minor hindrance for rapid magazine changes, especially in situations requiring quick follow-up shots.
• Safety Features: The placement and type of safety mechanisms differ in both rifles. While the Savage 64 boasts a lever safety behind the bolt handle, the Marlin 795 utilizes a cross bolt safety in the trigger guard. Depending on the user's training and muscle memory, one might be preferred over the other.

Conclusion:

Both the Savage Arms 64 and the Marlin 795 are standout contenders in the realm of .22 semi-automatic rifles. They are reliable, accurate, and cater to a wide range of shooting preferences. Your choice between the two should hinge on individual priorities, whether it's aesthetics, ergonomics, customization options, or any of the other factors mentioned above. Whatever the decision, both rifles promise a satisfying shooting experience and are worthy additions to any firearms collection.