The Savage Axis 270 Rifle: A Closer Look
The crisp morning air hangs heavy with the scent of pine. Sunlight filters through the trees, dappling the forest floor. You raise your rifle, settle into a comfortable position, and take a deep breath. The moment of truth approaches. In the world of hunting, a reliable rifle is more than just a tool; it’s an extension of yourself, a partner in pursuing the age-old tradition of providing for yourself and connecting with the wild. Finding a rifle that delivers on performance without breaking the bank can be a challenge, but it’s one well worth taking. The Savage Axis 270, paired with a Bushnell scope, offers an exceptional entry point into the world of hunting, providing a combination of affordability, accuracy, and ease of use that will appeal to both novice and seasoned hunters alike. This article explores the Savage Axis 270, its key features, the Bushnell scopes that complement its capabilities, and how this setup allows you to confidently pursue your hunting aspirations without emptying your wallet.
The Savage Axis rifle platform has become a go-to for hunters seeking affordability and reliability. Its design prioritizes functionality, offering a solid foundation for accurate shooting while keeping manufacturing costs down. Born out of a desire to offer a high-quality, accurate rifle at a more approachable price point, the Axis series has consistently delivered on its promise. The platform’s popularity stems from its simplicity, ease of use, and the diverse range of calibers offered. This accessibility makes it an attractive option for those new to hunting, as well as experienced hunters looking for a dependable, budget-conscious option.
The Savage Axis 270 chambered in the .270 Winchester caliber, a classic hunting cartridge, offers a well-balanced package. The .270 Winchester is highly regarded for its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of game animals.
The bolt-action mechanism is the heart of the Axis 270. This time-tested design offers exceptional reliability and accuracy. Bolt-action rifles are known for their ruggedness and simplicity, making them ideal for hunting conditions where reliability is paramount. The bolt action allows for a smooth and efficient reloading process, letting you quickly chamber the next round.
The barrel, often made of carbon steel, is a critical component in accuracy. The barrel length of the Axis 270 typically falls within a range that balances maneuverability with ballistic performance, helping to achieve the proper velocity for the .270 round. Rifling within the barrel imparts spin on the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and contributing to accuracy. The Axis 270, when paired with quality ammunition, is known to produce tight groupings at reasonable hunting distances.
The stock of the Axis 270 is most commonly made of synthetic material. These stocks are known for their durability, resistance to weather, and low maintenance requirements. The ergonomics of the stock are generally designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip, making it easier to handle the rifle and maintain accuracy. The stock’s design supports comfortable and natural shouldering, allowing for a quick and precise shot.
The AccuTrigger system, a signature feature of many Savage rifles, is included with the Axis. This trigger system offers a crisp, clean break, enhancing the overall shooting experience. The AccuTrigger is designed to be adjustable, enabling you to fine-tune the trigger pull weight to your preference. This adjustability is especially important for maximizing accuracy. A well-tuned trigger can improve shot placement, increasing your success rate.
The magazine capacity of the Axis 270 is generally designed for hunting scenarios. The magazine allows for quick and easy reloading, with a capacity that’s sufficient for the majority of hunting situations.
The Savage Axis 270 has several advantages. The first and most obvious is its affordability, making it accessible to a wider range of hunters. The accuracy, particularly when paired with quality ammunition and a good scope, allows for effective shot placement at typical hunting ranges. The simplicity of the design and ease of use makes it friendly to both newcomers and experienced shooters. The minimal recoil of the .270 also contributes to the ease of use.
However, there are also a few drawbacks. The materials used in the Axis 270 are chosen with cost in mind, so while they are durable, they may not have the same level of refinement as more expensive rifles. The trigger, while adjustable, may not have the precise feel of some aftermarket trigger upgrades. Despite this, for its price point, the Savage Axis 270 offers exceptional value.
Matching the Axis 270 with a Bushnell Scope
Bushnell is a well-respected name in the optics world. Their scopes are known for their reliability and optical quality, at price points accessible to many hunters. For decades, Bushnell has produced scopes that have become synonymous with value and performance, and are known for their durability, affordability and ability to perform well in a variety of conditions.
Choosing the right Bushnell scope for your Savage Axis 270 is a critical step in maximizing your rifle’s potential. The ideal magnification range depends on the terrain and the type of hunting you’ll be doing. For many hunting scenarios, a scope in the 3-9×40 or 4-12×40 range is perfect. This range offers enough magnification for both close-range shots and longer-distance opportunities. You’ll need to consider the ranges you plan to hunt to make the right decision.
The objective lens size also plays a crucial role. The objective lens is the front lens of the scope, and it gathers light. A larger objective lens (such as a 40mm or 50mm) will gather more light, which is particularly beneficial in low-light conditions, such as early mornings and late evenings. It is important to remember that a larger objective lens usually means a heavier and larger scope.
Reticles, or the crosshairs you see when looking through the scope, come in a variety of designs. The Duplex reticle is a popular choice, featuring thick outer posts that taper to fine crosshairs in the center. This design is excellent for quick target acquisition in various lighting conditions. Another option is a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle, which incorporates holdover points to compensate for bullet drop at longer ranges. BDC reticles require you to know the bullet’s ballistic characteristics and the distance to your target for accurate application.
Other features to keep in mind include an adjustable objective (AO) or side parallax adjustment. These allow you to eliminate parallax error, which can affect accuracy at different distances. Waterproofing and fog-proofing are also important features, as they ensure the scope performs reliably in a variety of weather conditions.
Several Bushnell scope models are well-suited for the Axis 270. Consider the Bushnell Banner series for an affordable and reliable option. The Bushnell Trophy series offers enhanced features and is a good upgrade. The Bushnell Engage series steps up in quality, and is an excellent choice for performance and value. Make sure that the mounting ring size matches the objective lens size and that you are purchasing the proper scope rings for a Picatinny or Weaver rail.
Getting Set Up: Mounting and Zeroing Your Scope
Properly mounting and zeroing your scope is fundamental to accurate shooting. Choosing the right scope mounts and rings is crucial. Different mounting systems exist, with the most common options being those for Picatinny or Weaver rails. These rails provide a secure and stable platform for attaching scope rings. Select rings of appropriate height to give you adequate clearance between the scope’s objective lens and the rifle’s barrel.
The process of mounting the scope involves properly attaching the rings to the rail and the scope to the rings. The screws must be tightened securely, while also ensuring the scope is aligned correctly with the rifle’s bore.
Zeroing your rifle is the process of adjusting the scope’s crosshairs so they align with the point of impact of your bullets at a specific distance. This is a critical step because it ensures that your shots consistently hit where you aim. Before zeroing, always ensure the rifle is unloaded.
The zeroing procedure typically starts with bore sighting, which involves aligning the rifle’s bore with a target. Then, from a stable shooting position, fire a three-shot group at the target. Observe where the bullets impact, relative to your point of aim.
Using the scope’s windage and elevation adjustments, you’ll make small adjustments to move the crosshairs to the point of impact. Adjusting the elevation moves the point of impact up or down, while adjusting windage moves it left or right. After each adjustment, fire another group of shots to check your progress. Continue this process until your shots consistently hit where you aim.
Performance and Hunting: Putting It All Together
The Savage Axis 270 with a well-selected Bushnell scope is capable of excellent accuracy. The combination can consistently produce groups that are more than adequate for hunting situations. The level of accuracy allows for ethical shots on game animals at the typical ranges encountered by most hunters.
The .270 Winchester cartridge offers a flat trajectory, meaning the bullet drops less over distance compared to slower cartridges. This is very helpful in determining how to aim at various distances.
This rifle and scope combination excels in several hunting applications. It’s well-suited for deer, pronghorn, and other medium-sized game. The .270’s relatively flat trajectory and effective terminal ballistics provide adequate power for a clean and ethical harvest.
Picture yourself stalking through a wide-open meadow in pursuit of a whitetail buck. As the sun begins its descent, casting long shadows across the landscape, the buck emerges from the cover of trees. You raise your Savage Axis 270, acquire the target through your Bushnell scope, and squeeze the trigger. A well-placed shot results in a successful hunt.
Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Gear Ready
Regular maintenance is vital for ensuring your Savage Axis 270 and Bushnell scope remain in top condition and continue to perform effectively. Cleaning the rifle after each shooting session is essential. Begin by disassembling the rifle and removing the bolt. Use a cleaning rod, brush, and solvent to remove powder residue and fouling from the barrel. Then, wipe down all metal surfaces with a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
The Bushnell scope needs regular cleaning as well. Use a soft lens cloth to gently wipe away any dirt, dust, or fingerprints from the lenses. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. The lens coating could become damaged.
Gun safety is paramount. Always treat every firearm as if it’s loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Never point a firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Know your target and what’s beyond it. Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Store your rifle and scope in a secure location.
The Bottom Line
The Savage Axis 270 with a Bushnell scope represents a fantastic combination for the budget-conscious hunter. It provides the accuracy, reliability, and features needed for success, while remaining affordable. This combination is a great option for someone just starting out, or the seasoned hunter wanting an affordable second rifle. This setup makes hunting accessible and enjoyable, allowing you to pursue your passion in the field.
Remember, responsible hunting is about more than just harvesting game. It’s about respecting the animals, the environment, and the traditions of the hunt. Enjoy the experience!
