I've read a lot of commentary about changing the pilot jet. Some have claimed changing to the #55 jet eliminates backfireing.
Some say backfireing might be an exhaust leak at the header. I have no evidence of leakage at the header on my 2002.
I did have to break the header connection when I installed the SuperTrapp some 4500 miles ago in May 2003, so it could be suspect, but there is no soot around there.

What performance improvement can I realize by changing the pilot jet on my 2002 Savage now? ???

Earlier Savages apparently had the bigger #55 jet, and from the threads, I think the 2002 might have the #52.5 jet. Is this worth another tear down? ??? Maybe I can put this off until I have to take the tank off again.

I do get a "KaPoP" after shifts in lower gears, but not every time. It's not really objectionable.

I run the mixture screw at 1.5 turns.

Dangerous as in the lean condition is doing damage or dangerous in that the backfire is doing damage?