Developing the Savage 110 PPR with Mike Robinson

October 8th, 2024
featured image for blog

We're thrilled to announce the launch of the new Savage 110 PPR rifle, a groundbreaking addition to our lineup, designed with the expertise and passion of Chef Mike Robinson. Known for his culinary mastery, dedication to sustainable hunting, and innovative land management, Mike brings a unique perspective to the design of this exceptional firearm. Join us as we explore the features and benefits of the 110 PPR through a detailed Q&A with Mike himself, highlighting how this rifle is set to revolutionize the hunting experience.

Q&A with Chef Mike Robinson

Q: Tell us about your background as a hunter, chef, and land manager.

A: I started as a chef and restaurateur with a keen interest in using wild food. Thanks to UK law, we can use wild game commercially, so I was determined to learn to stalk deer and hunt to supply the ingredients for my restaurants. This led to managing land for deer and ultimately to Deer Box, my venison management and processing company. My passion for hunting for food only grows every year! Last year, I went on about 120 hunts and harvested about 220 deer.

Q: What inspired the design of the Savage 110 PPR?

A: The design of the PPR came from my use of multiple different Savage rifles. What I and my team of deer managers needed was a rifle that was perfectly balanced, light enough to carry all day, highly accurate, and robust enough to stand up to hard abuse.

Q: What is the purpose of the 110 PPR? 

A: The 110 PPR is a rifle designed for the active hunter, someone who walks, stalks, and wants a workhorse. I use it day-to-day for harvesting elusive Fallow, Roe, and Muntjac deer. It is easy to use, has no nasty habits, and has great balance and accuracy. Whether you are up a mountain hunting Elk or in a tree stand after Whitetails, this rifle is perfect.

developing-the-savage-110-ppr-mike-walking-in-a-creek

Q: What are the most important features hunters will find in the 110 PPR?

A: The 110 PPR is perfectly balanced, light but not so light it feels unsteady, has a Proof Research 20” Carbon barrel, is fully coated against bad weather, and has the updated Savage 110 bolt action for smoothness of action. The rifle has side attachment points for the sling, meaning it sits flat on the back when walking or crawling, and is threaded for a suppressor or muzzle break. A 20 MOA Picatinny rail and the integral M-Lok system provide full flexibility for accessories.

Q: What is your favorite feature of the Savage 110 PPR?

A: My favorite feature of the 110 PPR? Honestly, the rifle is the sum of its parts. All the elements of this rifle add up to make a perfect hunting tool.

110 PPR rifle close up

Q: Why is the 110 PPR perfect for hunting big game?

A: The shortish barrel, extremely compact, adjustable stock, and excellent balance make this the perfect big game rifle. The balance is exactly right, so acquiring the target in the scope is very quick and easy.

Q: How does the 110 PPR help manage shooting recoil with the stock?

A: The profile of the PPR stock means that recoil is managed extremely well, reducing muzzle flip. This helps with target acquisition after the first shot. Recoil is transmitted straight back without lifting.

110 PPR stock close up

Q: What are the accessories you use with the Savage 110 PPR?

A: I combine my PPR with a Hausken Mega suppressor, a Vortex 4.5-22 Razor scope, and I always use the amazing 120 gr CX Outfitter rounds in 6.5 Creedmoor. When hunting, I like to use the Viperflex 5 leg sticks for ultimate stability.

Q: What are some key features of the 110 PPR stock? 

A: The stock on the PPR is perfectly fitted to the human shape. The hand grips the stock comfortably, the thumb ready for the safety. The adjustable comb means it can be quickly fitted to any shooter, and the flat profile of the underside of the stock sits perfectly on shooting rests.

Q: How would you describe the accuracy, and overall performance, of the 110 PPR?

A: Savage rifles are always incredibly accurate, but the 110 PPR is next level. My prototype has fired over 2000 rounds and is still putting rounds into a fingernail at 200 yards. The AccuTrigger is one of the reasons—it’s the best trigger there is, allowing the subconscious to know exactly when it will break, which helps massively with first-round perfect shot placement. The ergonomic stock fits the rifle snugly to the body. The carbon/stainless Proof Research barrel is incredibly accurate, with a long barrel life combined with lightness. Finally, the upgraded 110 bolt is smooth, precise, and has excellent loading and extraction abilities.

Mike shooting against fallen tree

Q: How does it perform in real hunting scenarios?

A: I have hunted over 200 days with the 110 PPR and have been incredibly impressed. The rifle performs in any weather, and I’ve used it in high mountain environments, forests, and on open flat fields. One thing I have noticed is how well it copes with mud and dirt. In England, it is always wet and cold, and very often we are crawling after deer. This means mud and dirt in the action—not a problem for the PPR. I’ve never had a problem. I have harvested over 200 deer of all species, about 70% shot in the head and neck, and 30% body shots. I have missed a couple from human error, but I have never had a rifle malfunction in all that time. My head deer manager, Warren, with his PPR, has harvested over 400 deer in the same time, and has a similar story.

Q: What would you say are the best hunting applications for the Savage 110 PPR?

A: The 110 PPR is the perfect compromise—it really is a rifle for everyone who hunts. It’s sensibly priced, accurate, well-balanced, never lets you down, and will perform every time in every environment. It’s the Labrador of the rifle world!

Mike shooting in the woods

The 110 PPR rifle is a testament to the fusion of cutting-edge technology and practical field experience, with Chef Mike Robinson's invaluable input shaping its design. This rifle is built to meet the needs of hunters everywhere, offering unparalleled balance, accuracy, and durability. Whether you're scaling mountains or stalking through forests, the 110 PPR is your reliable companion for every adventure. Experience the difference for yourself and elevate your hunting game with the new Savage 110 PPR.