2024 Editor’s Choice Award Winning Savage Arms Revel Classic

    Savage Arms Revel Classic

    A modern take on a timeless classic

    Lever-action rifles have always held a special place in the hearts of American gun owners. They evoke images of frontier life, cowboy culture, and a time when simplicity and reliability ruled the day. With the introduction of the 2024 On Target Editors’ Choice Award-winning Revel series, Savage Arms has brought this storied design into the modern age while maintaining the heritage that makes lever-actions so endearing. Available in .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR, the Revel lever-action rifle delivers on Savage’s reputation for accuracy and innovation, possibly setting a new standard in rimfire lever guns.

    Along with the enlarged loop lever and very smooth cycling action, the Revel can be broken down into two sections for packing or travel by pushing the two captive takedown pins at the bottom of the receiver and separating the front half from the rear. Sightron’s affordable S1 1.75-5×32 G2 riflescope proved the perfect match to the Revel.

    Heritage Meets Innovation

    Savage Arms is no stranger to precision and performance. The Revel series represents their latest effort to merge old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge features. At first glance, it’s clear Savage sought to respect the iconic silhouette of the lever-action rifle. From the highly-figured Turkish walnut stock to the tubular magazine, the Revel exudes tradition. Yet, beneath this classic exterior lies a rifle packed with thoughtful, modern touches.

    The Revel is offered in two variants: the Classic and the DLX. Both models feature an 18-inch medium-profile carbon steel barrel and a lightweight aluminum receiver, striking a balance between durability and portability. The Turkish walnut stock on the Classic features a straight grip that pays homage to traditional lever actions. The DLX model, however, steps up the refinement with a contoured pistol grip and stippled texturing for improved control and aesthetics.

    The Revel’s 18-inch carbon-steel barrel is fitted with a leaf-style adjustable rear sight and drift adjustable front post. An easy-to-load 12-round tubular magazine keeps the fun rolling.

    Practical Enhancements

    One of the standout features of the Revel is its push-pin takedown mechanism, which allows for quick disassembly without tools. This makes it an ideal choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need a rifle that’s easy to transport and maintain in the field. Lever-action rifles aren’t typically known for their modularity, but Savage has changed the game by adding this innovative feature.

    For shooters who plan to use the rifle in cold weather, the oversized lever loop is a welcome addition; it easily accommodates gloved hands, ensuring smooth operation. This practical touch demonstrates that Savage has designed the Revel with real-world users in mind.

    Safety is also a priority, and the Revel includes a crossbolt safety mechanism. While some purists might scoff at the inclusion of a modern safety on a lever-action, it’s a valuable feature for anyone new to the platform or for those who prioritize safety in the field or at the range.

    The satin-finished Turkish Walnut furniture on our test Revel showed a surprising amount of figure. A textured plastic buttplate means no snagging on thick winter garments.

    Accuracy and Versatility

    Rimfire rifles are often used for small-game hunting, target shooting, and general plinking, and the Revel series excels in all three categories. The rifle’s 18-inch carbon steel barrel offers exceptional accuracy, aided by adjustable iron sights, but for some reason, forgoes a threaded muzzle, negating the ability to screw on an effective rimfire suppressor.

    For those looking to push the rifle’s performance further, the receiver is drilled and tapped for optics. From the bench, the Revel turned in impressive near-half-inch groups at 50 yards with the help of Sightron’s affordable S1 1.75-5×32 G2 riflescope.

    Regarding capacity, the tubular magazine holds 12 rounds of .22 LR (tested) or 9 rounds of .22 WMR and .17 HMR. This generous capacity ensures you’ll spend more time shooting and less time reloading — a feature that’s especially appreciated during long days on the range or in the field.

    Like most every Savage rifle that On Target has tested over the past two decades, the Revel delivered in the Precision department. The rifle’s best 50-yard five-shot group was printed using CCI 40-grain and measured 0.59”. Similar performance was recorded using Federal and Remington loads.

    The Right Rifle for Every Shooter

    The Revel series is a versatile platform designed to appeal to a broad audience. New shooters will appreciate its manageable size, low recoil, and accessible price point. Hunters will value its accuracy, reliability, and practical features, while collectors and enthusiasts will be drawn to its combination of traditional styling and modern innovation. Priced at $439 for the Classic and $539 for the DLX, the Revel is an exceptional value.

    As we’ve expressed many times in these pages, there’s nothing like the visceral experience of cycling a well-tuned lever-action rifle. Running the lever on the Revel was smooth, quick, and positive, making for an exceedingly fun shooting experience.

    Final Thoughts

    Savage Arms has done something remarkable with the Revel series. By blending the timeless appeal of the lever-action rifle with modern enhancements, they’ve created a firearm that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a rimfire enthusiast, or someone looking to add a lever action to their collection, the Revel deserves serious consideration.

    With the Revel, Savage Arms has proven once again that they’re not afraid to innovate while staying true to their roots. This rifle isn’t just a nod to the past — it’s a celebration of what’s possible when tradition meets technology. See the Revel at your nearest dealer, or for more information, contact Savage Arms; Tel.: (800) 370-0708; Web: www.savagearms.comChris Mudgett


    Specifications:

    Type:                          Lever Action

    Caliber:                      .22LR (tested); 22WMR; .17 HMR

    Barrel:                        18 in., 1:16 in. RH twist

    Overall Length:          36.5 in.

    Weight:                      6.1 lbs.

    Furniture:                   Turkish Walnut

    Finish:                        Black

    Capacity:                   12+1

    Sights:                      Adjustable rear; fixed front

    MSRP:                       $439