Savage 30-30 bolt gun comparison questions

[Jon in TN]

We were at the gun shop the other day and my son took a liking to an old 325. I'm thinking about getting him one, but I've noticed that Stevens/Savage made several 30-30 bolts over the years and I'm looking for some advice. Is there any of them better than the others? Or any particular model to hold out for or stay away from? Or problems to look for?

Sorry for the novice questions, but this one line of gun that I've never owned before.

Thanks

Jon

[spruce]

Really can't tell you much about the nuances of the various model numbers of this series that Savage/Stevens/Springfield used.  As far as Icould tell from casual observance they all appeared to be very much alike, save for minor cosmetic differences.
 
If you want to scope it be aware the older ones weren't usually (ever?) factory drilled and tapped for scope mounts, the newer ones are.  Due to it's split bridge receiver design it uses a side mount base.

[hillbill]

i have a savage 340 that i believe is just the newer model of the 325.they do use a side mount scope and some of the older ones had the mount screws on the action but did need a bit a bit of wood relieved for the mount to fit.my 340 is a very accurate reliable gun as i believe the 325 models were.biggest factor is the price. ive rarely seen one for less than 300-350$ lately.which is rediculous considering you can buy more modern rifles for that price and they were not the epitome of style and quality.add to that the scope mount will cost you around 40$.
 
they do work well and are good for shooters of smaller stature.i like the ability to use pointed bullets in it.

[BUGEYE]

If I were shopping for a deer rifle I would try to find a 340.  I am a BIG fan of the 30-30.

[geezerbiker]

The Stevens 325 is supposed to be collectable because they only made it for a few years.  Mine is a bit rough so it's value is all in being a good shooter.  I suppose some PO had my 325 D&ted for the Weaver side mount, anyway it looks and works good but I think I would be just as happy with a rear peep sight.

Tony

[gcrank1]

About 20yrs ago I passed up a 340, average used deergun condition, at a gunshow for $65 and been kicking myself ever since. Next one was around $150 then the prices got as much as used Rem. 700's. They may be ugly and clunky looking but I would buy one priced 'right' because I like the 30-30.
Truth is though, that with the new generation low priced entry level bolt guns that they are a better value, and the 308 or '06 can be loaded to 30-30 ballistics and do just as well.
2-1-14 update: the 'one priced right' came home; this was about a real 10yr. wait but the butterknife handled 325 (no alpha code) is pretty clean and well cared for. Now to break out the old Lyman 310 tool and make some 'period' loads.

[Savage .250]

You`ll only find them ....used as they are not made anymore.  Some folks really love them.

[hunt-m-up]

Had a Savage 840 for awhile, one of the newer versions of the 340 made, it was drilled and tapped on the side of the reciever. Very accurate with the Hornady Leverevolution ammo. Bought it used and one of the first things I did was replace the ejector and band type extractor. Also polished chamber because it had some extraction issues. Also need to be careful with magazines as they have a couple springs that hook into the magazine when it is inserted and the springs can get out of whack. A lot of fun to shoot when they're working.
Look for a very lightly used one, they were a budget rifle and not made to take the number of rounds a Savage 110 will. The other option would be to find a Remington 788 in 30-30, probably pretty tough to find, but a very accurate rifle as well.

[hunt-m-up]

Had a Savage 840 for awhile, one of the newer versions of the 340 made, it was drilled and tapped on the side of the reciever. Very accurate with the Hornady Leverevolution ammo. Bought it used and one of the first things I did was replace the ejector and band type extractor. Also polished chamber because it had some extraction issues. Also need to be careful with magazines as they have a couple springs that hook into the magazine when it is inserted and the springs can get out of whack. A lot of fun to shoot when they're working.
Look for a very lightly used one, they were a budget rifle and not made to take the number of rounds a Savage 110 will. The other option would be to find a Remington 788 in 30-30, probably pretty tough to find, but a very accurate rifle as well.

[Deerhunter#1]

Here is my 340 i payed 100 for. 60 to have drilled and tapped 40for the mount and 75the for the laminate stock. I just finished baking on the high temp primer and paint today which set me back about 2o. 300 dollars i think has got me a great looking gun and she loves the 160 ftx hand loads of mine

[gcrank1]

Best looking 340 Ive ever seen