Description
I was up in a tree stand last fall, the Missouri frost just starting to bite, when a decent 8-point stepped into a clearing at about 180 yards. The rifle in my hands was the Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP 30-06, Vortex Crossfire II 3X9X40 Scope. I’d put a couple boxes of Federal Power-Shok through it to get dialed in, and when the crosshairs settled, the result was decisive. That’s the kind of real-world confidence this package delivers straight from the box.
So, what is it? The Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP is a complete, ready-to-hunt bolt-action rifle system chambered in the legendary .30-06 Springfield. It comes from the factory with a Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm scope already mounted and bore-sighted, a hard case, and even a box of Winchester Super-X ammunition. For $505.99, you get a turn-key hunting rig that fits out of the box—no gunsmithing required, just head to the range for your final zero. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, making it a straightforward purchase for residents here.
Let’s talk about the heart of it: the Savage 110 action. It’s a proven, time-tested design with a crisp AccuTrigger. You can adjust the pull weight yourself, and I found the factory setting to be just right for hunting—clean and predictable, without any creepy take-up. The barrel is button-rifled and free-floated, which is a big part of why this rifle consistently shoots right around MOA with good factory ammo. The synthetic stock is stiff and does its job, with an ergonomic palm swell that makes it feel more substantial than you’d expect.
The Vortex Crossfire II scope is the perfect partner here. Look, a bundled scope can sometimes feel like an afterthought, but Vortex optics are legit. The 3-9x magnification is the gold standard for Eastern whitetail or Western elk, and the 40mm objective gathers plenty of light for dawn and dusk. The dead-hold BDC reticle is simple to use, and the whole unit is fog-proof and shockproof. It’s mounted on Savage’s pre-installed Weaver-style bases, a system that’s compatible with a huge range of aftermarket rings from brands like Warne or Leupold if you ever want to swap.
Here’s the thing—this is a hunting rifle first and foremost. The overall package weight sits at about 8.3 pounds scoped, which is a very manageable heft for all-day carries in the Mark Twain National Forest. The .30-06 chambering is the clincher for me. With a 22-inch barrel, it effectively launches everything from 150-grain deer loads up to 180-grain bullets for larger game, giving you immense versatility. You’re not locked into one niche.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | 110 Apex Hunter XP |
| Caliber | .30-06 Springfield |
| Barrel Length | 22″ |
| Overall Length | 42.5″ |
| Weight (Scoped) | Approx. 8.3 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Trigger | User-Adjustable AccuTrigger |
| Included Optics | Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: It’s an incredible value. You get a shoot-ready system from two respected brands for barely over five hundred bucks. The accuracy is consistently better than most factory rifles in this price bracket, and the .30-06 is a do-anything cartridge. The cons? The stock is functional but basic. It’s not a custom chassis, and the finish is utilitarian. The action might feel a bit rough initially compared to a $1,200 rifle, but it smooths out with use. For a tool meant to be carried through brush and weather, these are compromises I can easily live with.
Who is this for? This is the ideal first big-game rifle for a new hunter, or a perfect, reliable backup gun for a seasoned hand. It’s for the Missouri hunter who wants a no-fuss, dependable rifle for deer season without breaking the bank. It’s also for the shooter who appreciates value and doesn’t want the hassle of selecting and mounting a scope separately. If your goal is to have an effective hunting tool ready by opening day, this package eliminates all the guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope really mounted and ready to shoot?
A: Yes. The Vortex Crossfire II comes mounted in Savage rings on the pre-installed bases and is factory bore-sighted. This means you’ll be on paper at 100 yards right away. You absolutely must take it to the range to confirm and fine-tune your zero with the specific ammunition you plan to hunt with, but the hard part is done.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With quality factory ammunition like Federal Premium or Hornady American Whitetail, sub-MOA (under 1-inch groups at 100 yards) is achievable. I’ve consistently seen 1 to 1.5-inch groups with several different 150-grain and 180-grain loads. That’s more than accurate enough for any ethical hunting shot you’d take.
Q: Does it come with everything I need to start hunting?
A: Almost. The “XP” package includes the rifle, scope mounted, a hard plastic case, and one box of Winchester 150-grain Power-Point ammunition. You will need to purchase additional ammunition for practice and hunting, and remember that an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when shipping. After that, you’re essentially hunt-ready.
If you’re looking for a serious hunting rifle that delivers performance without complication, the Savage 110 Apex Hunter XP package is a standout choice. Check availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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