Savage bolt guns

[Slater]

Been looking at buying a budget/entry-level hunting rifle that I won't have to worry about dropping or dinging up in the woods. A friend recommended that I take a look at the Savage Axis II in .308 chambering. Seems to come with an el cheapo Weaver scope and an even el-cheaper-o plastic stock, but most of the reviews I've seen have been positive, with many shooters being enthustiastic about it's accuracy.

Never owned a Savage before, but this seems worth a look for my purposes. Any positive /negative experiences with Savage's entry-level rifles?

[cdclpc]

*first post ever*.

I love my savage bolt guns. I've never owned an axis, but they review very well, especially for the money. I've had 3 12fv's in 22-250 over the years and a Stevens 200 in .300 win mag. Great shooters. All the 22-250's were less than half MOA guns at 100 yard with Hornady ammo. I would routinely shoot oil filters off the bipod at 380 yard. The reviews on the Axis are also showing great results and there is beginning to be some aftermarket support for them as well. Boyd's is making stocks, I believe Rifle Basics is making triggers, and barrel changes are just as simple as other savage rifles. I don't think you'll be disappointed


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[SniperOverwatch]

Savage are some of the best value in bolt rifles. I was in the same position as you last month and eventually decide to jump from the Axis in .308 to the Trophy Hunter XP in .308 since it came with a stock I liked better and was a nicer Nikon scope. I'd recommend the same.

Savage rifles are generally very good for the money and one of the best parts is that you can do your own work because of the barrel nut. Kinda like ARs.

[Kyohte]

From my observation, the axis is not as much "bang for the buck" as a model 1X. I suggest springing a little more for main line of rifles, running about $575 with cheap scope. Then you have a good action that can be upgraded if you want a good precision rifle later. The axis action is not the same from what I have read, and it is not easily upgraded.

[Slater]

Did a quick comparison at Bud's (online) and the Model 11 Trophy Hunter is just over $100 more expensive than the Axis II, both being .308. The Trophy Hunter comes with a Nikon scope vs the Weaver on the Axis II. Just going on the pictures, both look to use a similar stock, but I take it that they're actually different?

Not being familiar with the actions, what makes the Model 11 superior to the Axis II?

[cdclpc]

While the difference in the actions and benefits of one over another are hard for me to explain, or I don't know the specifics,I tend to agree with a main line rifle being a better value. The cost really isn't much more for a 10 of 11 and it's a time proven rifle. I guess that's probably one of the reasons I haven't bought an Axis.


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[Lefty223]

E
... what makes the Model 11 superior to the Axis II?
Both have their Accu-Trigger - which is AWESOME for a factory trigger.

Both do NOT have their Accu-Stock, which is their 1-piece aluminum bedded system. And the 2 stocks are not identical.

The model 11 is 3/4-pound heavier, some weight due to the sotck, whereas the rest must be attributable to the barrel profile.

FWIW as a lefty, I've had many a Savage arm and I wrote (as Lefty223) what was one of the 1st DIY tutorial articles posted on-line on how to glass & pillar bed Savage actions. Point is, I've never had one NOT shoot sub-MOA in any configuration.

FYI, I also do the "break-in barrel" routine of shoot 1 then clean, for the 1st 10, then shoot 2 & same for next 20-rounds. Doesn't necesarily increase any inherent accuracy, but they foul less, clean up easier and maintain the accuracy "between cleanings" better.

As a budget arm they excel and the only worthy competition to me is the Ruger American, which has the integrsl aluminum bedding block. But for those who wants some degree of customization available, the Savage is the way to go! Replacements stocks in all styles, bedding and configurations, e.g., Palma or tactical, are available, plus replacement triggers (Sharp Shooter Supply to 4-ounces or Rifle Basix), larger or tactical bolt knobs, and many other ootions including 10-round detachable mags.

[cdclpc]

I think they still offer some main line rifles without accu trigger. I'm actually fairly certain of it. I know my newest 12fv doesn't have accu stock. Just FYI. I know I saw some package gun (with some scope) on impact guns within the last year without it. I wasn't aware the Axis II did, but that's awesome.

[Slater]

Certain models/configurations come with a heavy barrel. Is that any significant improvement over the standard barrel?

[cdclpc]

My experience is no. I own one of each currently and while I love my heavy barrel rifle it is just that, heavy. My AR now pulls a lot of duty that rifle used to, because of weight My AR just isn't as accurate. My Magnum contour barrel shoots just as well. That being said, I never shoot them enough to get them very warm.


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[Kyohte]

Heavy barrel is application dependent. If it is for hunting, I presume, lugging a target barrel around all day sucks.

[SniperOverwatch]

If you're carrying your gun more than you're shooting it, stay with the sporter profile.

If you're shooting more than you're carrying, get a heavy barrel.

When hunting you're lugging the thing around and then taking one or two shots, if any. But if you want to "target shoot" that thin barrel will get very frustrating very fast. And the heavy barreled range rifle sits on the bench or mat anyway. Thin barrels are designed to make 2-3 quick, accurate, CCB shots, that's all.

Just my two cents...


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[nick1169]

I own the camo version axis in .308. Mine came with a cheap bushel 3x9 scope. I swapped that out for a Burris Fullfield E1 6.5-20x50mm. The stock does seem cheap, but I personally haven't had any issue with it. The trigger is non adjustable but not horrible. The only complaint I have with it is the bolt handle is a little short IMHO. I'm a big guy and have big hands, add that with a pair of gloves and it adds to it. There are some aftermarket bolt handles available out there though.


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[Uprange41]

My Savages have always been good shooters. I'd recommend against the Axis simply for the aftermarket choices on the standard models. I have two, and they're okay, but I don't see a compelling reason not to get at least a Trophy Hunter. Even if you flip the scope for $50, the aftermarket options make it worth the small price difference. That said, my Nikon from one of the Trophy Hunters has been reliable for the last three years or so. Factory bases are junk, though, so if nothing else, no matter what gun you choose, upgrade. Talley, Leupold, a quality rail, anything better.

But my Axis rifles and 111's have all been reliable, accurate shooters. What you want to do with the gun would really determine which one you should get.

[Primus Pilum]

Accuracy is never the issue with Savage. Reliability and Durability is the issue.

For a hunting gun or something to sling rounds at the range. They are a cheap, accurate option with a user replaceable barrel.

For someone who will shoot a decent amount, compete, ect, then they are poor choice based on design deficiencies and poor durability (especially when hard and fast in a PRS or tactical match type situation).

For the same amount or a little more, you can get into a Tikka or Howa which are orders of magnitude better designs and manufactured. If on a budget, they are where I would be looking.

[Tikkatac]

On a hunting rig I see no point in a heavy barrel unless I'm trying to lose weight.

[clschicago]

Accuracy is never the issue with Savage. Reliability and Durability is the issue.

For a hunting gun or something to sling rounds at the range. They are a cheap, accurate option with a user replaceable barrel.

For someone who will shoot a decent amount, compete, ect, then they are poor choice based on design deficiencies and poor durability (especially when hard and fast in a PRS or tactical match type situation).

For the same amount or a little more, you can get into a Tikka or Howa which are orders of magnitude better designs and manufactured. If on a budget, they are where I would be looking.



id be interested in knowing about these design deficiencies in a prs match.

my savage 10pc 5r has a LOT of range time and havent had any issues with it.

[Primus Pilum]

id be interested in knowing about these design deficiencies in a prs match.

my savage 10pc 5r has a LOT of range time and havent had any issues with it.

Poor Ejection
Poor Feeding
Notorious for small parts failure
Bolt sticks and is difficult to lift
Unrefined and rough to operate bolt
Trigger is garbage
Stock is garbage
No matter how much money you throw into it, you cant fix its reliability problems. Anyone who has shot/taught a high vollume course of fire or class with a savage rifle knows what I am talking about.

After ATK bought them, they have only gotten worse. Much like Freedom group with remington.

There are too many good, quality built designs to base your system off now to throw money away on a savage. Same can be said for Remington, but they can at least be fixed to a serviceable level with enough money dumped into them.

Just because you haven't seen an issue, really doesn't mean much either way. Hundreds of thousands of guns out there and more than a few people have tried to run PRS or tactical matches with them only to come away disappointed.
Shooting rounds on a square range with good conditions and slow fire is not the same ballgame. Too many superior choices for similar money to every consider a savage. Its not even debatable.

[Slater]

The Accutrigger seems to have a lot of favorable reviews.

[Primus Pilum]

By fudds who have never shot a real trigger. Legacy M70 trigger with a tune job blows them out of the water, not to mention factory tikka and howas. Then you can get into the timney, jewels, hubers,ect which are on a different level.

Accutrigger is failure prone, which is par for the course in savage rifles.

[PrivateCitizen]

nevermind …

[TUNNEL RAT 33]

hey everyone , I have a 10 fp and am looking to replace the accutrigger with a timoney. ive done the search and cant find any real feedback from anyone who has done the switch. that glock like safety in the middle of the trigger bothers me , and my finger placement never seems to consistent .

[daniel87]

hey everyone , I have a 10 fp and am looking to replace the accutrigger with a timoney. ive done the search and cant find any real feedback from anyone who has done the switch. that glock like safety in the middle of the trigger bothers me , and my finger placement never seems to consistent .
Sorry to hear i have never had a problem.
I keep my finger near the bottom of the bow.

Good luck though

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[Auto-X Fil]

Poor Ejection
Poor Feeding
Notorious for small parts failure
Bolt sticks and is difficult to lift
Unrefined and rough to operate bolt
Trigger is garbage
Stock is garbage
No matter how much money you throw into it, you cant fix its reliability problems. Anyone who has shot/taught a high vollume course of fire or class with a savage rifle knows what I am talking about.

After ATK bought them, they have only gotten worse. Much like Freedom group with remington.

There are too many good, quality built designs to base your system off now to throw money away on a savage. Same can be said for Remington, but they can at least be fixed to a serviceable level with enough money dumped into them.

Just because you haven't seen an issue, really doesn't mean much either way. Hundreds of thousands of guns out there and more than a few people have tried to run PRS or tactical matches with them only to come away disappointed.
Shooting rounds on a square range with good conditions and slow fire is not the same ballgame. Too many superior choices for similar money to every consider a savage. Its not even debatable.

I agree that I would take a Tikka for that sort of use. For casual range use, F-class style comps, or hunting, Savage still offers a lot of rifle for the money. It's nothing like 10-20 years ago, when there weren't nearly as many options on the market, though.

Specific reliablility issues I've seen on my guns are mostly related to hot loads. The floating bolt design doesn't like getting battered. I normally like loading moderate pressures and getting great brass life, in which case the savages are reliable.

In terms of "nice to use", the bolt is always a little sticky, and the magazines are not the best. A .223 non-acoustock I just helped someone sight in has a major magazine flaw that actually makes it nearly impossible to feed ammo consistently out of the box. That's the most major Savage issue I've seen.

I still fall back on Savage for anyone on a budget who is going to shoot the factory barrel and not wear it out. A T3 is a great alternative, however.

[jbjh]

hey everyone , I have a 10 fp and am looking to replace the accutrigger with a timoney. ive done the search and cant find any real feedback from anyone who has done the switch. that glock like safety in the middle of the trigger bothers me , and my finger placement never seems to consistent .

Take a stroll over to the Savageshooters forum, and I'm sure there's more than a few opinions on the Timney. You can also look at SSS or Rifle Basix (which I have and love). You can even drop the older Savage three screw triggers in. Lots of options.

[rcoodyar15]

I kind of like my savages. A lot like AR's. They are fun to build. Even easier than an ar. They are inexpensive too! You can easily switch out barrels and basically have a completely new gun. Many more effective calibers than an AR.

Sure they have their issues but if they bother you and you are willing to spend the money Fred can fix it. Minor irritations to me.

and that bolt action savage will consistently outshoot the AR's.

Each has its place. I really like my AR's too!

[TUNNEL RAT 33]

thanks for the info !

[Primus Pilum]

I kind of like my savages. A lot like AR's. They are fun to build. Even easier than an ar. They are inexpensive too! You can easily switch out barrels and basically have a completely new gun. Many more effective calibers than an AR.

Sure they have their issues but if they bother you and you are willing to spend the money Fred can fix it. Minor irritations to me.

and that bolt action savage will consistently outshoot the AR's.

Each has its place. I really like my AR's too!

http://www.americanrifle.com/Mausingfield-Bolt-Action.html

[rcoodyar15]

http://www.americanrifle.com/Mausingfield-Bolt-Action.html

no doubt that corrects all the deficiencies and keeps the unique features that make a savage a savage.

like I said. I will put up with the minor irritations.

very nice though. Never heard of it before.

[Bimmer]

Been looking at buying a budget/entry-level hunting rifle that I won't have to worry about dropping or dinging up in the woods...

Like some others mentioned, at a low price point (under $750?) you definitely get what you pay for, and IMHO it's well worth it to spend a little bit more and buy a better Savage.

I bought a Savage 10 FCP-SR about a year ago, and it's been great — no failures, very accurate. The magazines are fiddly, the bolt is a little stiff, and the Accu-Stock is plasticky, but the gun cost $510 shipped and easily consistently shoots sub-MOA with FGMM.

I'm a very satisfied customer.



Accuracy is never the issue with Savage... They are a cheap, accurate option with a user replaceable barrel...

For the same amount or a little more, you can get into a Tikka or Howa which are orders of magnitude better designs and manufactured. If on a budget, they are where I would be looking.

Sure, and there are lots of Tikka and Howa fans over on Sniper's Hide, but there are also a lot of guys over there bitching about problems with them. At this price point, none of the options are flawless.