I did not think 1:10 vs. 1:11, which perhaps is the most common twist in .308 Winchester, would had made the difference, both rifles have conventional Enfield rifling so that's out... I read a lot where the TYPE of rifling, such as polygonal, results in less pressure allowing for hotter loads and more velocity... common in the 6.5G vs. 6.5SPC battle.no one asked, but I was curious so I looked it up.
Twist rate vs velocity
http://bulletin.accurateshooter.com/...ity-litz-test/
The only thing I can think of is my Savage barrel must be well honed and seasoned... for a sub $400 rifle, I wish I had bought 5 of them.