Savage Arms MINIMALIST: Compact .21 Sharp Bolt Action Rifle

There are rifles that are purely functional, and then there are rifles that blend compact carry, thoughtful ergonomics, and surprising ballistic performance. For shooters who want a lightweight rimfire that punches above the typical .22 LR without jumping all the way to .22 Magnum, this rifle bridges that gap with practical design choices and real-world utility.

SAVAGE ARMS MARK II MINIMALIST

Design and build: slim, strong, and mission-focused

From a tactical perspective, the SAVAGE ARMS MARK II MINIMALIST gets the fundamentals right. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks provided the laminate-design stock, and the Minimalist variant trims unnecessary bulk while preserving rigidity. The top-grade laminated hardwoods offer consistent stiffness and recoil management far superior to cheap synthetic slaps, making the rifle stable for follow-ups and sustained target work.

The green stock color scheme is understated and practical in the field, and Savage’s attention to balance means the rifle feels lighter than its capability suggests. An 18-inch threaded barrel keeps the overall package compact and allows for easy mounting of suppressors or muzzle devices that many users prefer for noise management on the range.

Threaded barrel and field versatility

The 18-inch threaded barrel gives you options. Whether you’re running a small suppressor for hearing protection or a muzzle brake for recoil tuning, the threading expands the rifle’s role: a backyard plinker, a small-game hunter, or a teaching rifle for new shooters learning marksmanship fundamentals.

Action and feeding: more shots, less fuss

Savage’s Mark II line features a magazine-fed action, and the MINIMALIST is no exception. That magazine-fed design removes the repetitive reload ritual of single-shot trainers and keeps you focused on shooting fundamentals: sight picture, trigger control, and follow-up accuracy. The included 10-round magazine is a practical balance between capacity and compactness, and it complements the rifle’s lightweight profile.

For anyone doing cadence drills, rimfire training, or practical accuracy testing, the ability to cycle a 10-round magazine makes range time more efficient and training sessions more productive.

Ballistics and caliber: the benefits of .21 Sharp

Cartridge choice shapes the rifle’s performance. Chambered in Winchester’s new .21 Sharp round, the MINIMALIST offers a noticeable step up from .22 LR in velocity, energy, and downrange performance, while remaining more affordable than .22 Magnum. Practically speaking, .21 Sharp provides flatter trajectories, improved terminal performance on small game, and more reliable performance in longer-range rimfire work.

For range practice that approximates centerfire holdovers or for varmint and small-game hunts where a little extra energy and retained velocity matter, .21 Sharp delivers a compromise that many shooters will appreciate.

Where .21 Sharp excels

– Training: Closer on-ballistics feel to lightweight centerfire options for trajectory practice.
– Small-game hunting: More effective downrange energy and penetration than standard .22 LR.
– Cost-conscious shooters: A balance between performance and ammunition cost compared to stepping up to .22 Magnum.

Features that matter in the field

Specific features from the product description are worth calling out: the Boyds laminate stock reduces bulk while maintaining structural integrity, the 18-inch threaded barrel adds modularity, and the single 10-round magazine included gets you on the line immediately. Savage Arms has a long history with rimfires, and the MARK II platform is a proven action for accuracy and longevity. At a price of $369.99, this model represents solid value for a purpose-built rimfire with upgraded materials.

Whether you’re transitioning a shooter from .22 LR to something with a touch more authority, or you want an inexpensive platform that offers better ballistic performance for hunting, this rifle covers those bases without the weight and complexity of larger calibers.

Shop this product and see the full specifications, or compare accessories that make the most of the threaded barrel and laminate stock.

Optics, accessories, and setup recommendations

For a compact bolt-action rimfire like the MARK II MINIMALIST, a low-power variable optic or a quality fixed 3–9x scope with a clear reticle covers most tasks. Choose mounts rated for rimfire recoil and consider a lightweight bipod or a compact shooting bag for improved bench stability. If you intend to run a suppressor, verify local laws and pick a can rated for rimfire use to avoid baffle strikes.

Trigger tuning on Savage’s Mark II platform is user-friendly, and many shooters appreciate the crisp, predictable break out of the box. If you’re a shooter who values a tailored fit, the Boyds laminate stock accepts minor bedding and pillar options without major structural modifications.

Training and practical use

As two people who have spent plenty of time behind rifles, we value tools that reward practice. The MARK II MINIMALIST’s magazine-fed action and .21 Sharp chambering make it a capable trainer for sighting fundamentals while offering a realistic step toward centerfire trajectory work. It’s approachable for new shooters and useful for experienced shooters who want a lightweight, accurate rimfire for specific tasks.

View product details and pricing

In the end, if your objective is a compact, capable rimfire that bridges the gap between .22 LR and .22 Magnum in a platform that’s light, accurate, and thoughtfully built, the SAVAGE ARMS MARK II MINIMALIST is worth a hard look. At $369.99, it’s priced to be an accessible performance upgrade for training, hunting, and precision rimfire work.

Check current availability and purchase directly from our shop page to complete your setup.

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.