Why Replace Your Savage Axis Stock?
Potential Drawbacks of the Standard Stock
The foundation of any rifle’s performance rests with its stock. It provides the points of contact with the shooter, influencing how the rifle feels, handles, and, crucially, how accurately it can be aimed and fired. The original stock often made from polymer, is a cost-effective choice for manufacturers. However, this approach presents some potential drawbacks.
The materials the stock is made of can significantly impact its overall performance. While modern polymer stocks are generally durable, they can sometimes lack the rigidity of other materials. The original stock might flex under recoil, transferring vibrations that, at worst, can impact shot accuracy. This flex can also make consistent bedding more difficult, potentially affecting the long-term performance of the rifle.
Beyond materials, ergonomics play a critical role. The “feel” of the stock impacts how naturally you can bring the rifle to your shoulder, align your eye with the sights, and maintain a comfortable shooting position. The factory stock, while suitable for a range of users, might not be ideally suited for everyone. Those who are smaller or taller may find the stock’s dimensions, such as the length of pull (LOP), to be less than ideal, which can negatively influence your shooting experience. It’s important that the stock fits you. A poor fit can result in discomfort, fatigue, and inconsistencies in your shot placement.
The factory stock typically offers limited adjustability. Customizing a rifle to your specific needs is a major draw for many shooters. A lack of adjustment options, such as comb height and LOP, can restrict your ability to tailor the rifle to your body and shooting style. This can be a real problem if you want to use different scopes or optics.
And finally, the aesthetics of the stock matter to many shooters. The factory stock may feel utilitarian. A replacement stock provides an opportunity to express your individual style and personalize your rifle. From vibrant colors to striking designs, the options are virtually limitless.
Elevating Your Shooting Experience: The Perks of Upgrading
Replacing the stock on your Savage Axis isn’t just about appearance; it’s an investment in enhanced performance. The benefits of upgrading your stock can be substantial and directly translate to improvements in your shooting experience.
Accuracy is the ultimate goal for many shooters. A well-designed replacement stock can provide a marked improvement in your rifle’s precision. Stiffer materials reduce flex, and solid bedding (the interface between the action and the stock) minimizes vibration, resulting in more consistent shot placement. A good stock allows the barrel to be properly supported and free-floated, eliminating contact that can impact accuracy. This can lead to tighter groupings at the range and increased confidence in the field.
Beyond accuracy, a replacement stock offers the opportunity to optimize ergonomics. A stock designed for your size and shooting style will feel more comfortable, which helps in the long run. Adjustability features, like adjustable length of pull or comb height, allow you to fine-tune the fit of your rifle, ensuring a proper sight picture and a natural shooting stance. Comfortable shooting leads to better focus and improved shot consistency.
Durability is a key consideration. The materials used in replacement stocks are often more robust than those found on factory rifles. This enhanced durability can withstand the rigors of frequent use and harsh environments, especially crucial for hunters who spend long days in the field or shooters who put their rifle through rigorous use.
Perhaps most importantly, replacement stocks allow for extensive customization. You can select a stock in your preferred material, color, and design. You can choose features like adjustable cheek pieces, sling swivel studs, or integral picatinny rails for mounting accessories. This level of customization transforms your Savage Axis from a functional tool into a personalized instrument, a source of pride and enjoyment.
Exploring the Options: Different Stock Types
Synthetic Stocks
Synthetic stocks are a popular choice for their durability, weather resistance, and affordability. They’re generally made from polymer compounds, sometimes reinforced with fiberglass or carbon fiber. They can withstand harsh conditions and require minimal maintenance. Synthetic stocks often offer a good balance of performance and cost. They are a good all-around choice.
Wood Stocks
Wood stocks provide a classic aesthetic that appeals to many shooters. Walnut is a popular choice for its beauty and grain. Wood stocks often offer good vibration dampening characteristics, potentially contributing to accuracy. The downside is that they’re more susceptible to the elements. They require more maintenance, and they can warp or swell due to moisture changes.
Chassis Stocks
Chassis stocks represent a significant step up in performance. Constructed primarily from aluminum, these stocks offer exceptional rigidity and modularity. They typically feature an adjustable cheek piece, length of pull, and often incorporate Picatinny rails for mounting accessories. Chassis stocks excel in target shooting and precision applications. They’re often the most expensive type.
Features to Consider
Beyond the fundamental stock types, consider the other key features which are:
Adjustable length of pull (LOP): This feature allows you to adjust the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock, critical for a comfortable and consistent shooting position.
Adjustable comb height: Adjusting the comb (the top portion of the stock where your cheek rests) ensures proper eye alignment with your scope or sights.
Bedding requirements: Some stocks require bedding (the process of creating a precise interface between the action and the stock).
Inletting: Make sure the inletting on the stock is designed for the specific Savage Axis model you own.
Sling swivel studs or QD mounts: These allow you to attach a sling for carrying the rifle.
Recoil pad options: A good recoil pad can significantly reduce felt recoil and improve comfort, especially when shooting larger calibers.
Making the Right Selection: Choosing the Perfect Stock
Defining Your Needs
Selecting the right replacement stock is a process of balancing your needs, your budget, and the features that matter most to you. Careful consideration will ensure you invest in a stock that maximizes your enjoyment and performance.
Begin by clearly defining your shooting needs. Are you a hunter, a target shooter, or a general recreational shooter? What is the intended use of the rifle? The answers to these questions will help you narrow down your options.
Considering Your Budget
Next, consider your budget. Replacement stocks range significantly in price, from relatively affordable synthetic models to high-end chassis systems. Set a realistic budget before you begin your search to avoid overspending.
Prioritizing Desired Features
Think about your desired features. Are you looking for adjustability, enhanced aesthetics, or a particular shooting style? Prioritize the features that are most important to you. This helps you narrow down your options.
Researching Brands and Models
Researching the options is key. Look for popular brands and models known for quality and performance. Read customer reviews and ratings to gauge the experiences of other users.
Ensuring Compatibility
Carefully verify that the stock is compatible with your specific Savage Axis model. The Savage Axis has gone through some iterations. Ensure the stock is specifically designed for the action of your rifle.
Understanding Inletting and Barrel Channel
If the stock has an inlet, you must check the fit to the barrel channel. Many stocks are designed for free-floating barrels. Free-floating ensures that the barrel doesn’t make any contact with the stock.
Careful planning and research now will save you time and money later.
Installation: A General Overview
Safety First
While specific installation instructions will vary depending on the stock, the process typically involves the following steps.
Safety is always the first and most important step. Before any work, ensure your rifle is unloaded and that the chamber is clear. Double-check to be absolutely sure.
Gathering the Necessary Tools
Gather the necessary tools. You’ll typically need screwdrivers (likely a set of Torx or Allen wrenches, depending on the fasteners), a torque wrench, and possibly a vise or padded bench.
Disassembling the Original Stock
Carefully disassemble the original stock. Remove the action from the factory stock. Pay close attention to the order of the parts and how they fit together. Take photos or videos of the original configuration to help you during reassembly.
Preparing the Rifle
Prepare the rifle for the new stock. You may need to remove any bedding material from the old stock or do some minor adjustments to the new stock to accommodate the action.
Installing the New Stock
Install the new stock. Carefully place the action into the new stock, ensuring proper alignment.
Tightening the Screws
Tighten the screws, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for torque. Don’t overtighten the screws, as this could damage the stock or the action.
Checking for Proper Fit
Finally, check for proper fit and function. Cycle the bolt, verify that the trigger functions correctly, and ensure there are no obstructions.
Considering the Possibilities: Bedding
What is Bedding?
Bedding is the process of creating a precise interface between the rifle’s action and the stock. The goal is to ensure that the action is properly supported and that vibrations are minimized.
Types of Bedding
There are two main types of bedding: pillar bedding and glass bedding. Pillar bedding involves installing aluminum pillars in the stock, which provide a solid foundation for the action screws. Glass bedding involves applying a bedding compound to the stock, creating a custom fit for the action.
Benefits of Bedding
Bedding can significantly improve accuracy by ensuring consistent contact between the action and the stock. If accuracy is paramount, consider bedding your new stock. It’s a relatively simple process that can yield significant results.
Fine Tuning and Maintenance: After Installation
Testing Your Rifle
Once the new stock is installed, take your rifle to the range and test fire it. This will allow you to confirm accuracy and check for any issues. Make sure the rifle is performing to its potential.
Adjusting the Stock
If the stock is adjustable, take time to fine-tune the settings. This will ensure the stock fits comfortably and that your eye aligns properly with the scope or sights.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean and maintain your new stock according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Different materials have different cleaning requirements. A well-maintained stock will last for many years.
Addressing Potential Issues
If you encounter any issues, consult the manufacturer’s documentation or seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Don’t hesitate to seek expert advice.
Bringing It All Together: The Benefits of Upgrading
Upgrading the stock on your Savage Axis is a rewarding endeavor. You’ll not only improve your rifle’s accuracy and ergonomics, but you’ll also enhance its overall appearance and your enjoyment of the sport.
Choosing the right replacement stock is crucial to achieving the desired results. Take the time to research the options, consider your needs, and select a stock that aligns with your shooting goals.
Embrace the journey of personalization. Upgrading your rifle is about more than just performance; it’s about creating a tool that reflects your individual style and enhances your shooting experience.
Consider this your starting point. There’s a wealth of information available, and you should take advantage of it.
Remember: always prioritize safety.
The options are vast.
