Savage or Kimber?

[Sim G]

Well, I think I might just be the bloke to answer your question...

Firstly, I love the .223 cartridge. I've had many rifles in this chambering, so no arguments from me there.

I had a Savage 12 BVSS. I stupidly sold it. One of my current .223s is a Kimber SVT. The Kimber is not twice the rifle.

I would put a Savage back in my cabinet tomorrow. I'm not likely to keep the Kimber...

[Tomochan]

I've owned a number of Savages but only one Kimber - the Kimber Tactical - so my data set is limited. Having said that, I'd generally take a Kimber over a Savage.

[the running man]

The quality of kimber pistols is second to non but possibly Wilson combat,but I'm told that superior quality does not extend to their rifles...

[Scotsgun]

I've owned quite a few savages including a model 10, 12 & a bvss. I've also owned a kimber tactical and an 84. Kimbers are completely different rifles which require a different approach to get the most from them. Predominantly light in weight and more of a stripped down affair. I got the kimber bug when seeking a light rifle for roe deer stalking.
I bought mine from a guy dealing as Fox Firearms. Really nice bloke and very knowledgeable but I've since learned he's no longer the importer. However he will likely point you in the right direction.
There isn't the aftermarket support for kimbers whereas u can easily source stock, triggers -Practically anything u wish for savages.
The kimbers are definitely lookers and are ideally suited as light, fast aiming guns. No one is likely to call a savage a looker, especially the action. However they do tend to be accurate and will get the job done without fuss. Think trades-man's guns.
Lastly, kimbers aren't popular nor common so they depreciate badly.
I'd buy the savage and invest the money saved in a good optic.