A Look Back at the Past
The rhythmic slide of the pump, the satisfying *shwick* as a new round is chambered – for many, it’s a sound and action deeply associated with a particular style of rifle: the pump-action. And when that pump-action is chambered in the iconic 30-30 Winchester cartridge, it represents a time-honored combination of power, simplicity, and reliability. One such firearm holds a special place in this legacy: the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30. This rifle, though perhaps not as widely celebrated as some contemporaries, deserves a closer look. Its place in hunting history and its enduring appeal stem from a combination of practical design and the timeless appeal of the cartridge it fires.
The Savage Model 170 isn’t just a rifle; it’s a connection to a bygone era, a symbol of American ingenuity, and a capable hunting tool. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of this pump-action marvel, exploring its heritage, mechanics, performance, and the place it holds in the hearts of shooters and collectors alike. This exploration will illuminate what makes the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 a noteworthy piece of firearm history.
The story of the Savage Model 170 begins with the broader narrative of the Savage Arms Company. Founded in the late nineteenth century, Savage quickly carved out a reputation for innovation and quality. They consistently sought to provide hunters and shooters with reliable and innovative firearms. While they are known for many models, the Model 170 stands as a testament to their pursuit of excellence. It was a time of significant development and competition in the firearms industry, and Savage constantly strived to remain at the forefront.
The introduction of the Model 170 occurred during a period when pump-action rifles were gaining in popularity. The action offered a faster rate of fire than traditional bolt-action rifles, a key advantage for hunters, especially in situations that demanded quick follow-up shots. The push for a dependable and straightforward pump-action rifle in a common hunting cartridge was met with the design and implementation of the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30, solidifying its place among the popular rifles of its era. The company’s engineering expertise created a firearm that was both functional and affordable.
The period during which the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 was manufactured saw significant social and technological changes. Hunting culture evolved alongside societal shifts, making the rifle and cartridge choices all the more significant in the lifestyle of the American outdoorsman. The rifle quickly became a favorite among hunters looking for a reliable and effective firearm for the diverse hunting grounds of North America.
The Mechanics of the Pump
At the heart of the Model 170 lies its pump-action mechanism. This design, characterized by its reciprocating forend, is what gives the rifle its distinctive feel and operation. When the shooter pulls the forend towards them, the action cycles, ejecting the spent casing and loading a fresh round from the magazine into the chamber. This straightforward system offers several advantages, starting with its simplicity. The mechanism is easy to understand, operate, and maintain, which is a significant benefit for hunters in the field.
The pump-action design also allows for rapid follow-up shots, a crucial advantage in hunting situations where multiple targets may present themselves or when a follow-up shot is needed to ethically dispatch game. The speed of the action is enhanced by the short, direct movement of the forend, providing an intuitive and efficient reloading process. The design is typically known for its robustness and reliability. The mechanism is engineered to withstand rugged use and varying environmental conditions.
The cartridge chosen, the legendary 30-30 Winchester, complements the pump action perfectly. The Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 and the cartridge together are considered an extremely capable pairing, ready for the challenges faced on the hunt. The cartridge, with its relatively modest recoil and flat trajectory, makes the Model 170 a pleasure to shoot, even over extended periods.
Form and Function: Key Design Elements
The 30-30 Winchester’s suitability for hunting is a significant factor. The cartridge has long been a favorite for whitetail deer, black bear, and other North American game. With the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30, the shooter had a rifle chambered in a cartridge with a proven record for effectiveness, particularly at moderate ranges. The rifle was well suited for the close- to medium-range hunting that was common during its time.
The barrel length, often around a standard measurement of 20 inches, helped to provide a balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. The barrel is rifled to impart spin on the bullet, adding to accuracy, allowing for consistent shot placement. The design of the barrel also contributed to the overall feel and balance of the rifle, making it comfortable to handle in various hunting situations.
The Model 170 typically featured iron sights. These sights consisted of a front sight and a rear sight, which enabled accurate aiming. The front sight was often a bead or a post, while the rear sight might have been an open or adjustable notch.
The stock and forend of the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 provided a comfortable and ergonomic interface for the shooter. The wood used for the stock and forend was chosen for both its durability and aesthetic appeal, adding to the overall feeling of quality. The design of the stock and forend promotes a natural and comfortable shooting position, further enhancing the shooting experience.
The magazine capacity of the Model 170 was typically around 5 rounds. The capacity, coupled with the speed of the pump-action, gave the shooter the ability to quickly get follow-up shots on target, which is important when hunting. The method of loading was generally through a port in the receiver.
Safety was also a key consideration in the design of the Model 170. The rifle typically incorporated a manual safety mechanism. This safety, usually located in a convenient position, provided an additional layer of protection against accidental discharges. The incorporation of a safety device highlights Savage’s commitment to safety.
The Experience of Shooting
The experience of shooting the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 is one that blends nostalgia with practicality. The moderate recoil of the 30-30 Winchester cartridge makes the rifle comfortable to shoot. The pump-action mechanism provides a quick and intuitive method for cycling rounds.
Accuracy is generally quite good for a rifle of this type. The effective range typically allows hunters to take ethical shots on medium-sized game. The accuracy, of course, depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the ammunition, the shooter’s skill, and the sighting system used. With practice and proper technique, the Model 170 can be a very accurate rifle, suitable for hunting.
In the realm of hunting applications, the Model 170 shines in scenarios where quick follow-up shots are a possibility. The Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 is especially well-suited to hunting in brushy or wooded areas. The rifle’s maneuverability and its effective range for hunting game make it a good choice.
Comparative Analysis: Peers and Partnerships
When assessing the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30, it’s helpful to consider it alongside its contemporaries. The Remington Model 760, another pump-action rifle, was a direct competitor. The Winchester Model 94, a lever-action rifle, was also a popular choice. Each rifle offered its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
The key advantage of the Model 170 was its simple and reliable pump-action design. The Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 was known for its straightforward operation. However, its shorter production run and more limited distribution meant that it wasn’t as widely known as some other models.
The advantages of the Model 170 lay in its combination of practicality and performance. Its straightforward design, combined with the proven effectiveness of the 30-30 Winchester cartridge, made it a good choice for many hunters. Some of the drawbacks would be the limited availability due to its production time.
Essential Care and Upkeep
Maintaining the Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 involves regular cleaning and lubrication. The pump-action mechanism should be kept clean. After each shooting session, the barrel should be cleaned.
Storage is also key. The rifle should be stored in a safe, dry place. The rifle should be protected from extreme temperatures and humidity. By taking these simple steps, you can help preserve the rifle’s value and extend its lifespan.
The current market value of the Model 170 can vary based on condition. Well-preserved rifles are considered highly desirable. To find a Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30, one can look at local gun stores, online auction sites, and gun shows.
The Lasting Legacy
The Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30 holds a special place in the history of firearms. This rifle, and many others like it, has the power to bridge the gap between the past and the present. The rifle is a reminder of the time when American ingenuity was at its peak.
The Savage Model 170, with its pump-action mechanism and the timeless 30-30 Winchester cartridge, represents a classic combination. The rifle is reliable, easy to handle, and accurate. Its legacy is a testament to the enduring popularity of the pump-action and the 30-30 Winchester. For those looking for a classic hunting rifle, the Model 170 offers a compelling choice.
Do you have experience with a Savage Model 170 Pump 30 30? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
