The Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder is a bolt action rifle aimed specifically at novice hunters and offered at a very attractive price of under 1,000 euros. The rifle was introduced by Sabatti last year and is part of the second generation Rover G2 series. This report covers an intensive field test that sheds light on the gun's performance and features.
The Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder is characterized by a light weight, which is due to the use of an aluminum alloy in the system case and mounting rails. The barrel is cold hammered and features four longitudinal grooves to save weight and improve heat dissipation. The barrel also features a protective hard-anodized finish. The three-warp bolt has a 60° opening angle and houses a solid extractor claw and spring-loaded ejector bolt in the recessed butt plate. The bolt cylinder has a high-polish hard chrome finish, while the lock and chamber handle have a matte black finish. The barrel features a muzzle thread and barrel extension that allows for quick barrel changes.
The Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder is currently offered in .308 Winchester, 30-06 Springfield and 8x57 IS calibers. The price does not vary between the different calibers. The magazine holds three cartridges, but can be replaced with a similar replacement magazine with a capacity of five or seven cartridges for an additional cost of 59 euros. The stock of the Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder is made of brown polymer and features a fish-skin-like texture on the contact surfaces of the pistol grip and fore-end. Stock length can be varied via optional stock spacers. The two-position safety acts on the trigger and chamber, but it still emitted a perceptible click when activated. The trigger is dry and can be regulated downward to about 1,200 g.
The rifle is equipped with a multi-purpose M-Lok style rail located underneath the forend. In a precision test on a 100-meter course, the Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder was convincing. The best 5-shot group had a diameter of 29 mm and was achieved with the inexpensive GECO Express hunting cartridge. The average spread circle of all five cartridge types shot in the test was 33.8 mm, which is absolutely usable for hunting. Overall, the Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder is a robust and reliable rifle at a very fair price. Particularly noteworthy are the excellent trigger characteristics and precision, which was convincing in our tests. The equipment with a muzzle thread and a barrel extension is also a plus point, as this allows for a quick barrel change. The stock is solid and well-made, though it might be a bit too light for some shooters. The click noise of the safety could also be annoying for some. Overall, the Sabatti Rover G2 Pathfinder is a recommendable choice for novice hunters looking for a reliable gun at an attractive price.