The Marlin has a better chance of being a tack-driver than the Savage. This has been our findings with .17HMR's at least.

Years back, I had a magazine fed .22RF Magnum Marlin with light - barrel. It was a sub 1" MOA at 100 meters, with most groups running 3/4" or slightly less. Ammo of preference were the cheapest, the original WW 40gr. Hp.

Guys are saying their CZ's and Anchutz are shooting well with the 33gr. Remington - which run $26.99 a box of 50, here. The WW 40's are about $15.99. Unfortunately I do not think either maker has a stainless version.

Due to the short accuracy range of most .22 Mag. rifles, we prefer .17HMR's. The ammo is about the same price now but our Marlins have a 200yard accuracy range for field rats.

I did sight in a Stainless Savage HMR thumb hole laminate for the rancher and found it could not hold a candle to our blued steel heavy barrel Marlins. It shot 1" to 1 1/2" at 100 yards, yet our Marlins shoot 1/2" to 7/10's. My new one isn't as accurate as Len's rifle, although the new one is faster (125fps faster) and prefers the 20gr. HP's to 17gr. Vmax.