Test: Sabatti Rover G2 Hunter bolt-action rifle – the entry-level hunting model with a Noblex scope

Another "good and cheap" gun? What does it offer? Those were the first thoughts when unpacking the Sabatti Rover Hunter G2. The rifle is indeed really simple and straightforward.  No one needs to explain anything to the developers of Sabatti about the construction of firearms and barrels, they already know how to do that – not only in the classic version, no, also in modern ones.  We have tested the entry level model, but don't forget that Rover is the name for a full line of hunting and sport rifles from Sabatti.

But back to the main protagonist, the Sabatti Rover Hunter G2. What can you expect from a gun for 799.00 euros? The 30-06 test gun weighs 3,100 grams alone and 3,960 grams including scope and mounts (Noblex NZ6 inception 3-18 x 56, Leupold rings). It has an overall length of 106 centimeters and a black blued 56-centimeter barrel. There are two other calibers to choose from: 8x57 IS and .308 Winchester. The polymer detachable magazine holds 3 cartridges, and another cartridge finds its place in the barrel. The stock, with its 3-centimeter rubber recoil pad, is touted as a rugged polymer element. A QD swivel stud is located in the rear lower third of the buttstock. The cheek rest stands out in color from the rest of the stock. It looks like something adjustable in height, but you look in vain for the necessary device to release and slide it. Instead, there are 2 other variations for the cheek rest to customize the gun. That's fine for the price.

The rubber recoil pad can also be replaced. The pistol grip is quite straight and looks a bit tiny. While the grip is a bit short and at first looks like you can't purchase it safely, the ergonomic recess in the buttstock provides extra grip. On the right side next to the bolt sits the two-position safety. It acts on the firing pin. If you push the lever backwards, a white dot appears and the bolt and trigger can no longer be opened or released. If you push the lever forward, a red dot appears: the gun is ready to fire. When the gun is cocked, a part of the breechblock protrudes. This cocking indicator closes flush again after firing. The bolt handle with its 60-degree throw is pleasant to operate. The ball or better the teardrop-shaped knob of the bolt handle seems quite delicate, but can be changed using a TX40 Torx screwdriver. The bolt has 3 locking lugs, is not polished, is a bit gritty and made slight scratching noises when cycling at the beginning.

This is probably due to the fact that the last finishing was omitted in manufacturing to be able to serve the price category. However, the bolt sits snugly and closes cleanly, which is the more important quality feature. And the scratching also grinds in over time. You can repolish it, of course. Or you can simply use some Fluna-Tec – a high-tech guncoating that makes the action easier to cycle.

The fine trigger releases cleanly and without creep at 1,200 grams and is adjustable from 1,000 to 2,000 grams. You have to position the detachable magazine very precisely to insert it into the opening under the action. Once the magazine – which appears to be of high quality despite its plastic material – is seated, there are no malfunctions. The indicated recess in the stock on the side above the magazine well is very nice and modern. The magazine release is in the trigger guard at the front bottom. The small button is effortless to operate and works flawlessly. A split Picatinny rail sits above the action. A trapezoidal-looking checkering is also incorporated into the forend and the pistol grip as well. Also very handy is the M-LOK rail at the bottom of the forend. The QD sling swivel is already incorporated here. The rail still offers room for other small attachments. The barrel remains: it has an M15x1 muzzle thread under the precisely fitting decorative cover. The barrel has a diameter of 18 millimeters and a 12-inch twist.

Our field test: Sabatti Rover G2 Hunter bolt action rifle

So far, so good. How the rifle performs was to be shown with five cartridge types on the 100-meter shooting range. We started with the dual-core bullet from RWS. It impressed right away with a 0.66”/17-mm groupimg. Hornady SST (0.82”/21 mm) and Norma Bondstrike (0.90”/23 mm) were also top performers. There were no really bad results or flyers. The tester also always wants to use the guns for hunting. A bit more difficult in this case, as one storm after another whistled over the hills of the hunting ground. 

So we passed all opportunities and tried our luck on fox. As ammunition, the classic RWS dual-core (DK) came along again, and in addition the rifle was fitted with the Hausken JD224 silencer. There were test shots with the modified set before use, of course. The promising spots were quickly canvassed, but without success. Then an invitation, again on fox. I was very happy to do so, as there was only a gentle breeze that evening instead of the announced gusts. The place did not seem promising, but the hunter would not have placed me there for no reason. So I had to hold out and study the surroundings. With a spectacular evening glow and a flood of sunset pictures on my cell phone, a sizable male emerged from the edge of the woods looking secure. The wind was chilling, but you can't always hunt with perfect conditions. It had to be quick, the male picked up speed to get to the other end of the meadow. A shrill call made him pause and a subsequent shot from the Sabatti killed him on the spot. Happy hunting and thank you. 

Sabatti Rover G2 Hunter technical specs and price

Conclusion: our impression of the Sabatti Rover G2 Hunter Classic

The Sabatti Rover Hunter G2 is "good and affordable". Modernity and functionality characterize the overall look. What needs to be on it is there, works well, and there are even extras. The buttstock looks valuable and dashing with the slightly extravagant, seemingly attached cheek rest, supported by the fact that the buttstock tapers towards the bottom. Both the cheek rest and the recoil pad can be replaced. The necessary parts are available as a buttstock kit for just under 50.00 euros. The replacement can be done at home. The pistol grip is relatively short and also stands quite straight. No disadvantage thanks to the shaped ergonomic section for the palm. The adjustable trigger works flawlessly, just as the two-position safety. It might be a bit loud at first, but once you've come to terms with it, it slips nicely without any noise. Another plus point: the firing pin safety. The bolt handle seems somehow short, certainly also because of the 60-degree throw. The teardrop-shaped knob on the handle blends in with the unobtrusive look, but is too small for all testers. If you want, you can replace it with something more suitable with little effort. 

Two Picatinny rails, for additional stability, are integral with the action. The Leupold rings have corresponded very well with them. Thus to the Noblex NZ6 inception 3 - 18 x 56 scope. For 945 euro it offers a lot. The practical position sensor switches off the illuminated dot after 3 hours. The dot is bright, quite fine and does not shine. The adjustment is stepless and runs very pleasantly. The field of view is large and super clear. You get a great (beginner) rifle that, contrary to all skepticism, is very well made and very good to handle. Even with the silencer screwed on for hunting use, the Sabatti is well balanced. It has a rich feel, swings well, and the groupings are presentable. With the available all-round calibers, there is certainly hardly anything left to be desired.

Finally, it is important to know that the Sabatti models bearing the Rover name are a whole series of modern and affordable bolt-action rifles. The model tested here is the most affordable entry-level version. Here you can find all the models of the brand new Sabatti Rover series.

For more information please visit the Sabatti website.