Went out to the range with my Stevens the other day. I had put a Rifle Basix trigger on it, what a difference. I also looked at the Savage manual and in the back it will list the one load they use to test each centerfire caliber at a 100 yard test target.
So, I ordered the Federal Sierra Match King in 69 grain BTHP that they listed for the .223. WOW is all I can say. At 100 yards, if you can see the target picture you might agree that Savage sure makes a great rifle in the Stevens line. All groundhogs and varmits beware....this bullet sure shoots well in my Stevens.
I sighted this at 100 yards. I believe it drops about 3" at 200 yards. Anyway, I'm a happy guy for this Winter.