Description
The Savage 116 Alaskan Brush Bolt 338 Win Mag 18″ Barrel, SS Finish is a purpose-built, stainless steel hunting rifle designed for dense timber and harsh conditions. It combines a short, 18-inch barrel for easy maneuvering with the potent .338 Winchester Magnum cartridge, making it a serious tool for taking on North America’s largest game at close to moderate ranges.
Key Features
- Stainless Steel Construction: Built to shrug off moisture, rain, and brush without a second thought.
- Compact 18-Inch Barrel: The short profile makes it incredibly handy in tight blinds, thick timber, or dense alder brush where every inch counts.
- Potent .338 Winchester Magnum Chambering: Delivers massive energy for elk, moose, and bear, even with the shorter barrel.
- Detachable Box Magazine: Allows for quick unloading and safe carry, a feature I always appreciate in the field.
- Adjustable AccuTrigger: Savage’s excellent, user-adjustable trigger system for a clean, crisp break you can tailor to your preference.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .338 Winchester Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 38.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs (scope not included) |
| Finish | Stainless Steel |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 rounds |
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a long-range prairie rifle. That 18-inch barrel is a trade-off. You’ll lose some muzzle velocity compared to a 24-inch tube, but what you gain in maneuverability in a Missouri riverbottom or an Alaskan spruce thicket is worth it. The stainless steel finish is a practical choice, not just for looks; it’s about durability when the weather turns. I’ve put a couple of boxes of Federal Premium 210-grain Barnes TSX through one, and it cycled flawlessly—no gunsmithing required to get it running right out of the box. The price point of $688.54 puts it in a very competitive spot for a dedicated, stainless big-bore brush gun.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Savage 116 is for the hunter who knows their terrain. If your season is spent in dense Eastern whitetail woods, Appalachian ridges, or chasing elk in Colorado timber, this rifle’s compact form makes sense. It’s for the hunter who wants the authoritative stopping power of the .338 Win Mag but in a package that won’t constantly snag on every branch. It’s also an ideal choice for a guide or backcountry hunter as a reliable, weather-resistant rifle for serious game at close quarters. Given its heft and recoil, it’s not a beginner’s rifle, but for an experienced shooter, it’s a focused tool.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The stainless steel build is incredibly tough for all-weather use. The short barrel is a dream to carry and shoulder in thick cover. The .338 Win Mag cartridge leaves no doubt about its capabilities on large game. The AccuTrigger system is one of the best factory triggers available. It’s a straightforward, reliable bolt-action platform.
Cons: Recoil is substantial—this isn’t a plinking rifle. The shorter barrel increases muzzle blast and noise noticeably. It’s a heavier rifle, so if you’re covering vast open country, the weight adds up. The classic synthetic stock is functional but not fancy. Ammunition cost is high, so practice ammo isn’t cheap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .338 Win Mag too much gun for whitetail deer?
A: For standard whitetail hunting, yes, it’s overkill and will result in significant meat damage. This cartridge is intended for larger game like elk, moose, and bear. For deer, a .308 Win or similar would be more appropriate and economical.
Q: What kind of optic should I put on this rifle?
A: Given its brush gun role, a low-power variable scope is ideal. Look at a 1-4x, 1-6x, or 2-7x scope from brands like Leupold, Vortex, or Trijicon. You want a wide field of view for quick shots in cover, not high magnification. A durable, fog-proof model is a must.
Q: How does the short barrel affect performance?
A: You can expect a velocity loss of roughly 75-125 feet per second compared to a 24-inch barrel, depending on the load. That said, you’re still launching a heavy, high-SD bullet with massive energy—plenty for any ethical shot inside 300 yards in brush country. The trade-off for handling is worth it for its intended use.
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, hard-use rifle built for the thick stuff and the biggest game, the Savage 116 Alaskan Brush in .338 Win Mag deserves a close look. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, and as always, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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