I have a few of these actions and skinny barrels. Ther are lighter than the typical savage sporter. So you have to take your time at the range as they heat up fast. They all have shot pretty good for me. Including a 270 that is a tack driver with the short light 20" barrel. What rings and bases are on it? I ask because on a savage the front action screw is not very deep because of the barrel tenon. When you thread it in it feels tight, but its bottoming out on the tenon. I would check that first. one screw doesnt seem like much, but it really jacked with one of my rifles.
Other thoughts. Probably not the stock. The savage wood stocks are pretty solid and have pillars. check action screws to make sure they are snug.
Other thoughts. Probably not the stock. The savage wood stocks are pretty solid and have pillars. check action screws to make sure they are snug.