If you’ve ever wished for the speed of a pump-action combined with the accuracy of a bolt gun, the Savage Impulse Driven Hunter 6.5mm Creedmoor 20″ 4+1 is your answer. This straight-pull bolt-action rifle lets you cycle rounds as fast as you can work the handle — no lifting, just pull straight back and push forward. It’s built for driven hunts where that second shot matters, and it’s got the precision to ring steel at distance too.
| Manufacturer | Savage Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | IMPULSE Driven Hunter |
| Caliber | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches (threaded 1/2-28) |
| Capacity | 4+1 (detachable box magazine) |
| Stock | AccuStock with AccuFit system |
| Trigger | AccuTrigger (adjustable, 2.5–6 lbs per factory specs) |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs (approx., per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Straight-Pull Bolt Action — No more lifting the handle on every cycle. The Impulse system lets you run the bolt like a pump shotgun, shaving time off follow-up shots. Why it matters: In a driven hunt or a stage at a PRS match, that split-second can be the difference between tagging a buck or watching it disappear.
- 20″ Threaded Barrel — Short enough to swing through brush, long enough to push 6.5 Creedmoor out to 800 yards. The 1/2-28 threads accept standard muzzle brakes or suppressors. Why it matters: You get a compact rifle that still delivers full velocity, and you can run it suppressed without needing a gunsmith.
- AccuStock & AccuFit System — The stock is rigid from action to forend, and the comb height and length of pull adjust without tools. Why it matters: A proper fit means consistent cheek weld and better accuracy, especially when you’re shooting in cold weather with heavy gear.
- Ambidextrous Bolt Handle — Removable and reversible, so lefties can run it without buying a different gun. Why it matters: You can share this rifle with a left-handed buddy at the range or swap the handle to match your strong side.
- 20 MOA Picatinny Rail — Integral to the receiver, pre-angled to give you extra elevation for long-range optics. Why it matters: You won’t run out of adjustment dialing out to 1,000 yards — just mount your scope and zero.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter who needs fast follow-ups on driven game, the recreational shooter who wants a flat-shooting 6.5 Creedmoor without the weight of a traditional bolt gun, and the first-time buyer who wants a modern action that’s easy to learn. If you like the idea of a straight-pull but don’t want to pay Blaser money, the Impulse is your ticket.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Lightning-fast cycling — you can fire three aimed shots in under two seconds with practice.
- Pro: True bolt-action accuracy; the barrel is free-floated and the action locks up tight.
- Pro: Threaded barrel out of the box — no extra cost for a suppressor host.
- Con: The straight-pull action has a slightly heavier bolt lift than a traditional turn-bolt if you’re used to the latter. It takes a few range trips to feel natural.
Comparison: Savage Impulse vs. Competitors
| Feature | Savage Impulse Driven Hunter | Blaser R8 Professional | Tikka T3x CTR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Straight-pull | Straight-pull | Traditional turn-bolt |
| Barrel Length | 20″ threaded | 22″ threaded | 20″ threaded |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs | 6.6 lbs | 7.3 lbs |
| Price | $1,200.97 | ~$3,500 | ~$1,100 |
| Adjustable Stock | Yes (AccuFit) | Yes (modular) | No |
| Ambidextrous | Yes (bolt handle) | Yes (barrel system) | No (right-hand only) |
The Blaser is lighter and more modular, but it costs three times as much. The Tikka is a fantastic turn-bolt but lacks the straight-pull speed and ambi features of the Savage. For the money, the Impulse gives you the best balance of speed, accuracy, and adjustability.
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on the Savage Impulse Driven Hunter 6.5mm Creedmoor?
Per Savage specs, the 20-inch barrel has a 1:8 twist rate, optimized for heavy-for-caliber bullets like the 140gr and 147gr ELD-Match loads.
Can I use this rifle for left-handed shooting without modifications?
Yes. The bolt handle is removable and can be installed on either side of the bolt, making it truly ambidextrous. The magazine release is also reversible.
Does the AccuTrigger require a gunsmith to adjust?
No. The AccuTrigger is user-adjustable using the included tool. You can set pull weight from 2.5 to 6 pounds without removing the trigger from the action.
What type of scope mount do I need for the 20 MOA rail?
Any standard Picatinny-compatible rings or one-piece mount will work. The 20 MOA base is already built into the receiver, so you don’t need a canted mount.
Is this rifle legal to hunt with in all 50 states?
Yes, it’s a bolt-action centerfire rifle with a detachable magazine, compliant with all state hunting regulations. It’s also suppressor-ready in states that allow them.
Trust & Delivery
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
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Last updated: April 2026
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