the savage is built on a rimfire action so i thought the handi would be a stronger lock up.
I think the correct wording is it is BASED on a rimfire action. The model 40 is stronger than all other of thier rimfires, but they are very similar. I'm not sure but I do think the model 40's barrel is threaded in, like I said, not sure there. I read an article a while back but don't remember.
I own several savages, and own several Handi's, if you were talking any other centerfire, I'b probably recommend the Savage (again that would depend on a few other things) but in the Hornet, I say go the Handi.
On the other end of the spectrum, I have a Savage 223 that I make reduced loads, from Hodgdons data, that match the Hornet. 40-45gr bullets at 2400-2500fps. I'm getting one hole groups at 50yds with. BUT this is an 11FL, NOT a model 40.