The Savage Axis II is a popular choice for budget-minded hunters and shooters, offering impressive accuracy for its price point. However, one area where some owners seek improvement is the barrel. Upgrading the barrel on your Savage Axis II can significantly enhance its performance, boosting accuracy, improving consistency, and potentially increasing its lifespan. This guide delves into everything you need to know about upgrading your Savage Axis II barrel.
Why Upgrade Your Savage Axis II Barrel?
The factory barrel on the Savage Axis II, while adequate, may not meet the needs of every shooter. Several factors can motivate a barrel upgrade:
- Increased Accuracy: A higher-quality aftermarket barrel, often crafted from superior materials and with tighter tolerances, can dramatically improve shot grouping. This is especially noticeable at longer ranges.
- Improved Consistency: Factory barrels can exhibit variations in accuracy over time due to wear and tear. An upgrade provides more consistent performance shot after shot.
- Enhanced Longevity: A high-quality barrel, properly cared for, can last significantly longer than a factory barrel, saving you money in the long run.
- Customization: Upgrading your barrel allows you to tailor your rifle to your specific needs and preferences. You can choose a barrel length, contour, and material to optimize for your chosen cartridge and shooting style. For example, a shorter, lighter barrel might be ideal for hunting in dense woods, while a longer, heavier barrel might be preferred for long-range target shooting.
Choosing the Right Savage Axis II Barrel Upgrade
Selecting the right replacement barrel involves careful consideration of several factors:
- Caliber: Ensure the new barrel matches the caliber of your existing action. Trying to force a mismatch will damage your rifle.
- Barrel Length: Barrel length significantly impacts velocity and accuracy. Shorter barrels are lighter and more maneuverable, while longer barrels generally provide higher velocity and better accuracy. Consider your intended use—hunting or target shooting—when making this decision.
- Barrel Contour: Barrel contour refers to the shape of the barrel's profile. Different contours offer different benefits. Heavy contours are more rigid, reducing vibrations and enhancing accuracy, but they are heavier. Light contours are lighter and easier to handle but might be more prone to vibrations. Medium contours offer a balance between weight and rigidity.
- Barrel Material: Most aftermarket barrels are made from stainless steel or carbon fiber. Stainless steel is durable and relatively inexpensive, while carbon fiber is lighter but more expensive.
- Manufacturer: Several reputable manufacturers produce high-quality aftermarket barrels for the Savage Axis II. Research different brands and read reviews before making a purchase.
Popular Barrel Manufacturers for Savage Axis II:
| Manufacturer | Known for |
|---|---|
| Shilen | High precision, accuracy |
| Krieger | Premium quality, custom barrel options |
| Bartlein | Top-tier accuracy, highly sought after |
| Brux | Excellent accuracy, innovative designs |
| Lilja | Long history of producing quality barrels |
The Barrel Upgrade Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Upgrading your Savage Axis II barrel is a significant undertaking and requires specialized tools and expertise. It's highly recommended that you seek the services of a qualified gunsmith, especially if you lack experience with firearms maintenance. Attempting this process without proper knowledge can damage your rifle.
However, here's a general overview of the steps involved:
- Acquire the Necessary Tools and Equipment: This will include a barrel vise, action wrench, headspace gauges, and various other specialized tools.
- Remove the Old Barrel: This involves carefully removing the existing barrel from the action using the appropriate tools.
- Prepare the Action: Clean the action thoroughly to ensure proper alignment and seating of the new barrel.
- Install the New Barrel: The new barrel is carefully installed and aligned with the action. This process requires precision to ensure proper headspace.
- Headspace Check: The headspace is critically checked using headspace gauges to ensure safe operation. Incorrect headspace can lead to catastrophic failure.
- Final Adjustments and Cleaning: Any final adjustments are made, and the rifle is thoroughly cleaned.
Disclaimer: This is a simplified overview. Improper barrel installation can lead to serious injury or death. Always consult a qualified gunsmith for any barrel installation or repair.
Case Study: Accuracy Improvement After Barrel Upgrade
One experienced shooter, John Doe, upgraded his Savage Axis II .308 Winchester with a Krieger barrel. His factory barrel consistently produced 3-inch groups at 100 yards. After the upgrade, he achieved sub-1 MOA accuracy (under 1 inch at 100 yards), a significant improvement that validated the investment.
Conclusion: Is a Savage Axis II Barrel Upgrade Worth It?
Upgrading your Savage Axis II barrel can dramatically improve its performance, but it's crucial to weigh the costs and benefits carefully. The investment will be significant, both financially and in terms of time if you choose to handle the upgrade yourself (which is not advised for beginners). However, for shooters seeking improved accuracy and longevity, a barrel upgrade can be a worthwhile investment, transforming a good rifle into a truly exceptional one. Remember always to prioritize safety and seek professional assistance when necessary.