# Savage Revel Classic Review: A Worthy Bargain Blaster? The Savage Revel is a relative newcomer to the rimfire lever-action game, promising an affordable shooting experience with solid performance. So the question is: does it deliver? In a nutshell, the Savage Revel proved to be accurate, reliable, and easy to shoot during our testing. But with some stiff competition in the rimfire market, is it worth your money over something else? Read on to learn more about the rifle, how it performed, and how it felt during my hands-on testing over 500 rounds. -- ppt/shared-text-box-widget -- By the Numbers -------------- **Reliability: 10/10** I had absolutely zero issues over the course of 500 rounds. There might be the potential for user-induced short-stroking, as is true of any lever gun, but the ease of running the action on the Revel made things a breeze. **Accuracy: 8/10** While the Revel isn't a match gun and is a bit ammo-sensitive, it still produced two different sub-1-inch 5-shot groups at 50 yards with CCI Stinger and Remington Thunderbolt ammo. The light and crisp trigger definitely helped coax the most out of the mechanical accuracy. **Ergonomics: 7/10** As the name implies, the Revel Classic sports the old-school lines and feel of the lever-actions of old. It is lightweight, balanced, and I love the size of the loop. However, it lacks the tasteful checkering and nicer pistol-grip stock of the Revel DLX models. **Customization: 5/10** This is a fairly bare-bones classic-style rifle by design. You can easily add a scope base or scope rings directly, Skinner offers aftermarket iron sights, and MDT offers a replacement stock option, but there isn't much else beyond that. The biggest downside is that the lack of a threaded muzzle on the Classic model means no suppressors. **Value: 7/10** At around $400, the Savage Revel Classic is slightly more expensive than a standard Henry Classic Lever-Action or the Winchester Ranger, but cheaper than the Browning BL-22. The action isn't quite as smooth as the Henry, but a really good trigger and solid accuracy with common ammo make up for it. **Overall: 79.5** **Savage Revel Classic** **Pros** - Crisp, light trigger that is better than most lever guns - Solid accuracy with common ammo - Extremely easy take-down into two pieces - Smooth action **Cons** - Lacks a threaded muzzle for a suppressor - Lever throw is noticeably longer than the Henry Classic - Less capacity than the Henry or Winchester Canik Prime Radian Specs & Features --------------------------------------- #### Specs - **Caliber:** .22 LR - **Action:** Lever-action - **Capacity:** 12+1 - **Barrel Length:** 18” - **Overall Length:** 36.5” - **Weight:** 6.1 lbs - **Country of Origin:** USA #### Features - Open V-notch rear sight and post front sight - Turkish walnut stock and forend - Aluminum receiver - Drilled and tapped receiver - Two-pin quick takedown How I Tested the Canik Prime Radian ----------------------------------- Every rifle reviewed at Pew Pew Tactical has a minimum of 500 rounds of various types of ammunition put through it to evaluate accuracy, reliability, ergonomics, and overall features using our [**strict testing standards and protocols**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/how-we-rate-reviews/). ### Round Count & Reliability Testing For this review, I shot a grand total of 500 rounds through the Revel using the following target and hunting loads: - **CCI Mini-Mag 40gr RN** - **CCI Stinger 32gr HP** - **CCI Velocitor 40gr HP** - **Remington Thunderbolt 40gr LRN** - **Winchester Wildcat 40gr Dynapoint** - **Norma TAC-22 40gr LRN** If you want to learn more about these and many more, check out our guide to the **[Best .22 LR Rimfire Ammo](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/best-22-lr-rimfire-ammo/)**. Any malfunctions, issues, or oddities are logged during the 500-round testing process. ### Accuracy Testing Standard accuracy testing was conducted by shooting five-shot groups at 50 yards with the rifle in a Caldwell Lead Sled. A Vortex Diamondback 2-7x35mm Rimfire scope was mounted and used throughout the accuracy testing. Average muzzle velocity was measured using a 5-shot average gathered using a [**Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/garmin-xero-c1-pro-review/). Savage Revel Classic: Accuracy & Reliability ------------------------------------------------ Most inexpensive lever-action rifles aren't known for tack-driving accuracy, and neither are many inexpensive rimfire rifles, for that matter. I went in expecting mediocre accuracy, but the Savage Revel (Lever spelled backward) Classic delivered better-than-expected results when paired with the right ammo. Below are the 5-shot groupings at 50 yards and chronograph data from my accuracy testing:
**Bullet****Weight****Group Size****Average** **Muzzle Velocity****Standard** **Deviation****Extreme** **Spread**
[**CCI** **Mini-Mag**](https://admin.pewpewtactical.com/go/brownells/cci-mini-mag/)Round Nose40 gr0.85"1144 fps24.1 fps68.6 fps
**[CCI Stinger](https://admin.pewpewtactical.com/go/brownells/cci-stinger/)**Hollow Point32 gr1.74"1614 fps5.7 fps15.7 fps
**[CCI Velocitor](https://admin.pewpewtactical.com/go/kygunco/cci-22-lr-velocitor-40-gr-cphp/)**Hollow Point40 gr1.8"1378 fps19 fps57 fps
**[Remington Thunderbolt](https://admin.pewpewtactical.com/go/midwayusa/remington-thunderbolt-22-lr/)**Lead Round Nose40 gr0.84"1203 fps12.5 fps31.5 fps
**[Winchester Wildcat](https://admin.pewpewtactical.com/go/ammodepot/winchester-wildcat-22-lr-40gr/)**Dynapoint40 gr1.67"1270 fps35.2 fps85.8 fps
**[Norma TAC-22](https://admin.pewpewtactical.com/go/grabagun/norma-tac-22-3/)**Lead Round Nose40 gr1.34"1067 fps12.5 fps33.7 fps
While the overall accuracy across all groups wasn't particularly mind-blowing, the groupings with the CCI Mini-Mags and Remington Thunderbolts stood out to me. Both were easily under one inch at 50 yards, which translates to a 1.6 MOA group. What is even better is that Remington Thunderbolt is **some of the cheapest .22 LR ammo out there** and you can find it anywhere. Likewise, CCI Mini-Mags are super easy to find and are widely regarded as the "nicer" cheap rounds. Sure you can get more accuracy out of a [**dedicated .22 LR bolt gun**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/cz-457-review/), but sub-inch groups at 50 yards with a $400 rimfire lever-action plinker? I'll take that any day of the week. This translated into some great practical accuracy as well. I found my holdover at 100 yards and decided to try my hand at hitting a Coca-Cola can from the kneeling position. I went 3-for-3; I'd call that "squirrel close." Ergonomics: Fit & Feel -------------------------- The Savage Revel Classic has some standout features, but a few things remind you it isn't a premium rifle. ### Receiver & Overall Finish The Revel Classic features an aluminum alloy receiver that is drilled and tapped for optics. This is a nice upgrade over the Zamak zinc-alloy receivers that aren't optics-ready found on the base-model Henry rimfire lever guns. Savage opted for an odd powder-coat finish that gives it a slightly glossier look than the rest of the rifle, but it held up pretty well. One of the neatest features of this rifle is that it **breaks down easily into two pieces** via a pair of captive push-pins in the receiver. Most traditional take-down lever guns have the barrel and loading tube separate from the receiver and back half of the gun. The Revel does things a bit differently, separating into one piece with the stock and trigger group and a second piece with the receiver and barrel. While you can take the Revel down and reassemble it pretty fast, it isn't a true quick-detach system that is meant for rapid deployment; it is more of a neat storage solution. The upside to this method is that since the barrel stays attached to the receiver at all times, **accuracy and zero are never affected**, no matter how many times you take it apart. The barrel and other non-receiver surfaces are coated in a slightly grainy matte finish that looks a bit cheap and shows fingerprints and scratches pretty easily. It doesn't look as good as the smoother, glossier finish of the Henry rifles. I was pleasantly surprised by the figuring and overall quality of the Turkish walnut stock and forend. The wood's look will vary from rifle to rifle, but this one was nice. ### Stock & Grip Being a base model, the Savage Revel Classic features a standard straight buttstock and a thin-profile forend, neither of which are checkered. The stock is shaped nicely and feels comfortable enough, but I did find myself wishing the forend and the grip area near the lever were a bit wider to fill out my hands better. Checkering would have been nice too, but it is hard to expect that on a $400 gun. Savage addresses the issues with their DLX model, which features a curved pistol grip that is checkered, and a forend with a more ergonomic shape. The DLX version also comes standard with a threaded barrel. ### Trigger Perhaps the biggest surprise I had with this gun was just how good the trigger is. I wasn't aware that Savage advertised the pull weight at 2.5- 3.5 lbs, and man, they weren't lying. My trusty Wheeler digital trigger gauge revealed a **five-pull average of 2 lbs 11 ounces**. There is a tiny bit of trigger take-up to a wall, then it breaks extremely fast. While a wall is present, the pull is so light that it is really easy to pull all the way through without feeling it. Most lever guns have mediocre triggers, but the Revel's is **genuinely great**. There is no doubt that the trigger helped me squeeze out the groups I did. ### Controls I am happy to report that the action on this gun is pretty darn smooth. It isn't quite as good as my Henry .22, and definitely not as buttery as my Winchester 9422, but it is still excellent. There is only the slightest hitch when the bolt pushes the hammer down, but otherwise it glides seamlessly back and forth. It requires so little effort that **I can rack the gun using only my pinky**. I admit that I am a huge fan of medium to large loops, but I know many people aren't because they can lead to hand pain from repeated knuckle impacts. However, I don't feel that is much of an issue here because it's so easy to actuate. It is worth noting that the throw distance of the lever is noticeably longer than that of something like the [**Henry .22 LR**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/henry-golden-boy-22lr-review/?_gl=1*684nri*_ga*NzA4NjkzMzE2LjE2NTkwOTI0NzY.*_ga_DD42B8KTN6*czE3OTI0OTU3NDQkbzIxNTIkZzEkdDE3OTI0OTcwNTYkajIyJGwwJGgw). If you're looking for a lever gun with a shorter stroke you can run super fast, this isn't it. A simple crossbolt safety is located just above the trigger and slightly to the rear. It is easy enough to use, and I like that they recessed it to prevent any accidental pressing. The gun loads via a simple loading gate near the front of the magazine tube. This is the bog-standard loading method for most rimfire lever-actions; it works just fine. I do find it a bit odd that the Revel only holds 12 rounds in the tube compared to the 15 rounds of the Henry Classic and Winchester Ranger, despite being about the same size. It isn't a deal-breaker, but it is worth mentioning. The Henry also has another small leg up in that it can use .22 Short rounds in addition to .22 LR, whereas the Revel Classic and Ranger are designed specifically for .22 LR. ### Sights The rear sight is a standard V-notch style that is easily adjustable for elevation and drift-adjustable for windage, with the front sight being a simple single post. Both sights are completely blacked out, which can make them a bit tough to see against darker backgrounds. I threw on a Vortex Diamondback 2-7x35mm rimfire scope using a set of Talley direct-mount rings that are made specifically for the Revel. I opted for low rings since the objective lens was only 35mm and there is no cheek riser. My heart sank for a moment when the scope started bottoming out on the rear sight. Instead of punching out the rear sight to get more clearance, I simply removed the elevator that moves the sight up and down. This lowered the rear sight all the way, giving me just, *and I mean just*, enough clearance to safely mount the scope without touching the rear sight. If you plan to use direct-mount rings and a similarly sized scope, **I highly recommend getting medium rings at minimum**. The other option is to use low rings with a Picatinny scope base to add a bit of extra height. Savage Revel Classic Downsides ------------------------------ Considering this is an entry-level rifle, I don't feel the need to nitpick it to death, but there is always room for improvement. The two things that seem like the easiest to address would be to add a bit more capacity to put it in line with its peers, and to add a fiber-optic front sight post to make it easier to see against certain backdrops. It would also be nice to have a shorter lever throw, but I am not sure whether that would require an extensive redesign or not. While I did get good accuracy with the cheaper ammo, the Revel does seem a bit ammo-picky overall. I'd definitely advise people to try a few different types of ammo to find what works best for their rifle. Who Should Buy the Savage Revel Classic? ---------------------------------------- The Savage Revel Classic is an outstanding option for anyone looking for a true-blue plinker or a small-game getter. It is accurate with cheap ammo, and it has a great trigger — what's not to like? Its 14.5-inch length of pull doesn't make it particularly well suited for youth shooters, but it would be a great training tool for newer adult shooters or recoil-sensitive shooters because It's not only easy to operate, it's fun to shoot. Upgrades & Accessories for the Savage Revel Classic ------------------------------------------------------- **Vortex Diamondback 2-7x35mm Rimfire Riflescope** The Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm scope offers a simple V-Plex, a 50-yard fixed parallax perfect for rimfire rifles, and the best no-questions-asked forever warranty in the biz. It also offers a nice glass clarity upgrade over their cheaper Crossfire line of scopes. **Talley 1" Savage Revel Ring & Base Combo, Medium Height** Talley makes Savage Revel-specific scope rings that allow you to mount the rings directly to the receiver. This provides a cleaner, trimmer installation with fewer moving parts and fewer screws that could come loose over time. **ShellShock Premium Eyes & Ears Combo (Electronic)** Just because it is a rimfire rifle doesn't mean you should skimp on eye and ear protection. The **ShellShock Premium Eyes & Ears Combo** includes comfortable gel-cup earmuffs with active electronic noise attenuation and excellent shooting glasses that come standard with both clear and smoke lenses, so you are covered in any lighting conditions. -- ppt/faq-widget -- **Savage Revel Classic** Final Verdict ------------- I took this gun out on a nice day, mounted everything up, and got right to shooting with nary an issue. The gun wasn't finicky or temperamental. It was so effortless and comfortable to shoot that I didn't realize I blazed through nearly all my ammo in about half the time I expected. Then it hit me, "Wow, that was genuinely relaxing." That about sums up my experience with the Savage Revel Classic — **simple, laid-back, fun**. And since ammo ain't gettin' any cheaper, a good shootin', affordable .22 LR is lookin' tastier day by day. **What are your thoughts about the Savage Revel Classic? Let us know in the comments below. Considering other .22 LR options? We have you covered with our article on the [Best .22 LR Rifles](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/best-22-lr-rifles/)!** Meet the Experts ---------------- This review was authored by Pew Pew Tactical Editor and Senior Review Analyst, [**Wyatt Sloan**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/author/wyattsloan/). Wyatt is an NRA-certified and USCCA-certified instructor with previous experience as a competitive shooter and has 10 years of home-based FFL firearm sales. He also personally owns over 250 firearms, including various lever-action, bolt-action, and semi-auto rimfire rifles. Editor-in-Chief [**Jacki Billings**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/author/jackibillings/) runs our experienced team of reviewers and edited this review. She is an NRA-certified Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and [**editorial standards**](https://www.pewpewtactical.com/how-we-rate-reviews/) for Pew Pew Tactical.