First Impressions: Savage MSR Recon

by
posted on January 2, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
first_impressions_recon_f.jpg

Savage enters the “black rifle” market with its MSR-15 and MSR-10. In all, the company is releasing four different rifle builds—two chambered in .223 Rem. and two chambered in .308 Win. or 6.5 Creedmoor. The MSR-15s include the Patrol and the the Recon. The MSR Hunter, the big game-capable rifle in the bunch, is chambered in .308 Win. and 6.5 Creedmoor. So is the MSR Long Range. All rifles are built with mil-spec uppers and lowers; some use mil-spec trigger groups. But the most interesting aspect of this new bunch of rifles is the fact that Savage has leaned on sister company Blackhawk to outfit the guns with proprietary furniture.

The MSR-15 Patrol, for instance, wears a Blackhawk telescoping buttstock, pistol grip and hand guards. The Recon, a rifle I used recently on a Texas whitetail hunt, wears a Blackhawk collapsible buttstock and pistol grip, and unique, aluminum hand guardsl. It’s a cool look—and it’s practical, too, as the aluminum provides a smooth, sure grip almost the entire length of the 16-inch barrel. The gun sports a kind of 3-gun look—and I like it.

Are they accurate? Oh yeah. In Texas, the Patrol and Recon we used shot half-minute groups with Federal ammo. I don’t think buyers will be disappointed with any of these rifles. 

Latest

W H2026 03 Eastturkey IMG 7028
W H2026 03 Eastturkey IMG 7028

Keys to the Eastern Turkey Hunt

A turkey is a turkey regardless of subspecies, sure, but best hunting tactics often vary depending on geographical location due to the birds’ varying behavior. Translated, killing turkeys back East is different than killing them out West. Check out some Eastern-specific tips below, and stay tuned for a follow-up targeted at our Western readers.

Montana and Utah Celebrating 125th Anniversaries

Two 125th Anniversaries are occurring this year, the first being for the entire Montana FWP, and the second being a key piece of property in the history of the Utah DWR.

First Look: Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Green Dot

Purpose-built for turkey hunting and wingshooting, the Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Red Dot line now adds a green reticle option for those who prefer it in certain lighting and shooting conditions.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Series

Blocker Outdoors' Finisher Series is a one stop shop for turkey hunters looking to streamline their clothing and gear in the field. Read on for some of the top pieces in this lineup, designed to keep hunters cool and comfortable, while maintaining easy access to essentials.

Know How: Shed Hunting Hellholes

Mark Kayser's fascination with shed antler hellholes kicked off and continues today in whitetail country. Not satisfied with the occasional shed antler found in stubble fields, hay grounds and open pastures, he turned his attention to the thickest, steepest and nastiest geography in the whitetail woods. Here’s why you should consider putting on your big boy pants for a deep dive into the extremes for shed antler rewards.

New for 2026: Federal X Henry Birthday Boy Collector's Edition Ammo

For 2026, Federal Ammunition has partnered with Henry Repeating Arms to produce a collector's series ammunition. This limited-edition load was developed for Henry's commemorative .45-70 Government Golden Boy lever-action rifle, touted as the Birthday Boy.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.