Savage Axis .308 Barrel Compatibility: A Comprehensive Guide
Upgrading the barrel on your Savage Axis .308 can significantly enhance its accuracy, performance, and overall shooting experience. However, navigating the world of aftermarket barrels and ensuring compatibility can be a daunting task. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about what barrels work with Savage Axis .308 rifles, covering crucial aspects like thread pitch, barrel nut systems, aftermarket options, installation considerations, and expert recommendations. Whether you’re aiming for tighter groupings at the range or improved performance in the field, understanding barrel compatibility is the first step toward achieving your shooting goals.
Understanding Savage Axis .308 Barrel Systems
The Savage Axis .308, known for its affordability and reliability, utilizes a unique barrel system that differs from some other popular rifle platforms. Central to this system is the barrel nut, which secures the barrel to the receiver and allows for precise headspace adjustment. Understanding the nuances of this system is paramount when considering a barrel swap.
The Role of the Barrel Nut
The barrel nut on a Savage Axis .308 serves two primary functions: securing the barrel to the receiver and enabling precise headspace adjustment. Headspace refers to the distance between the bolt face and the cartridge case head when the action is closed. Correct headspace is crucial for safe and accurate shooting. The barrel nut allows gunsmiths and experienced shooters to fine-tune this measurement, ensuring optimal performance.
Thread Pitch and Compatibility
The thread pitch of the barrel tenon (the threaded portion of the barrel that screws into the receiver) is a critical factor in determining barrel compatibility. The Savage Axis .308 typically uses a 1-1/16″ x 20 TPI (Threads Per Inch) thread pitch. Any aftermarket barrel intended for use with a Savage Axis .308 must have this same thread pitch to ensure proper fitment. Deviations from this standard will prevent the barrel from being correctly installed and could potentially damage the receiver or barrel.
Factory Barrel Characteristics
Factory Savage Axis .308 barrels are generally known for their acceptable accuracy, but many shooters seek to upgrade for improved performance. These barrels typically feature a button-rifled construction and a standard contour. While perfectly functional, they often lack the precision and consistency of higher-end aftermarket barrels. A common upgrade is to a heavier barrel profile to reduce barrel whip and improve heat dissipation, leading to more consistent shot strings. Also, factory barrels may not be stress relieved, which can lead to changes in point of impact as the barrel heats up.
Exploring Aftermarket Barrel Options for Savage Axis .308
The aftermarket for Savage Axis .308 barrels is robust, offering a wide array of options to suit various shooting disciplines and budgets. From precision-engineered stainless-steel barrels to lightweight carbon-fiber wrapped barrels, the possibilities are extensive. It’s important to consider factors like barrel material, rifling method, contour, and length when selecting an aftermarket barrel.
Stainless Steel Barrels: Precision and Durability
Stainless steel barrels are a popular choice for Savage Axis .308 upgrades due to their inherent accuracy, corrosion resistance, and durability. These barrels are typically manufactured from high-quality stainless-steel alloys like 416R, which is known for its machinability and ability to hold tight tolerances. Stainless steel barrels often feature cut or button rifling, both of which can produce excellent accuracy. They are a great choice for target shooting, hunting, and general-purpose use.
Chrome Moly Barrels: A Cost-Effective Alternative
Chrome moly barrels offer a more affordable alternative to stainless steel. While they may not be as corrosion resistant, they can still deliver excellent accuracy and performance if properly cared for. Chrome moly barrels are typically made from 4140 or 4150 steel and are often hammer-forged or button-rifled. They require regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust, but they can be a great option for budget-conscious shooters.
Carbon Fiber Wrapped Barrels: Lightweight Performance
Carbon fiber wrapped barrels are gaining popularity for their lightweight and stiffness. These barrels consist of a thin steel liner wrapped in multiple layers of carbon fiber. The carbon fiber adds rigidity, which helps to reduce barrel whip and improve accuracy, while also significantly reducing weight. This makes them ideal for hunting rifles where weight is a concern. However, carbon fiber barrels are generally more expensive than stainless steel or chrome moly barrels.
Barrel Length Considerations
Barrel length plays a significant role in the ballistic performance of the .308 Winchester cartridge. Longer barrels generally produce higher velocities, while shorter barrels are more maneuverable. A 20-24 inch barrel is a popular choice for .308 rifles, as it provides a good balance of velocity and handling. Shorter barrels (16-18 inches) are often used on tactical rifles or hunting rifles where compactness is desired. The optimal barrel length will depend on your specific shooting needs and preferences.
Installation and Headspace Adjustment
Installing an aftermarket barrel on a Savage Axis .308 requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of headspace adjustment. While some experienced shooters may be comfortable performing this task themselves, it is generally recommended to have a qualified gunsmith perform the installation to ensure safety and accuracy.
Tools Required for Barrel Installation
The following tools are typically required for installing a Savage Axis .308 barrel:
- Action wrench: To secure the receiver while removing or installing the barrel.
- Barrel nut wrench: Specifically designed to fit the Savage barrel nut.
- Headspace gauges: To accurately measure headspace.
- Torque wrench: To ensure proper torque on the barrel nut.
- Vise: To hold the action wrench securely.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
The general steps for installing a Savage Axis .308 barrel are as follows:
- Disassemble the rifle: Remove the stock, bolt, and any other components that may interfere with the barrel removal.
- Secure the receiver: Place the action wrench on the receiver and secure it in a vise.
- Remove the old barrel: Use the barrel nut wrench to loosen and remove the barrel nut. Then, unscrew the old barrel from the receiver.
- Install the new barrel: Apply a thin coat of grease to the barrel tenon threads. Screw the new barrel into the receiver until it is snug.
- Install the barrel nut: Slide the barrel nut onto the barrel and thread it onto the receiver.
- Adjust headspace: Use headspace gauges to check the headspace. Tighten or loosen the barrel nut as needed to achieve the correct headspace. This is a critical step and requires precision.
- Torque the barrel nut: Once the headspace is correct, torque the barrel nut to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification (typically around 40-50 ft-lbs).
- Reassemble the rifle: Reinstall the bolt, stock, and any other components that were removed.
The Importance of Proper Headspace
Improper headspace can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Misfires: If the headspace is too excessive, the firing pin may not be able to reliably ignite the primer.
- Case head separations: If the headspace is too tight, it can cause excessive pressure on the cartridge case, leading to case head separations. This is a dangerous condition that can damage the rifle and injure the shooter.
- Inaccurate shooting: Even if the headspace is only slightly off, it can negatively impact accuracy.
Due to these safety concerns, it is highly recommended to consult a qualified gunsmith for barrel installation and headspace adjustment. Their expertise ensures the rifle operates safely and accurately.
Top Barrel Manufacturers for Savage Axis .308
Several reputable manufacturers produce high-quality aftermarket barrels for the Savage Axis .308. Here are a few of the most popular and well-regarded options:
Criterion Barrels, Inc.
Criterion Barrels is known for producing highly accurate and consistent barrels. They offer a variety of barrel contours and lengths for the Savage Axis .308, all made from high-quality materials and precision-machined. Their barrels are a popular choice among competitive shooters and hunters alike.
McGowan Precision Barrels
McGowan Precision Barrels offers a wide range of custom barrel options for the Savage Axis .308. You can choose from various barrel lengths, contours, twist rates, and finishes to create a barrel that perfectly suits your needs. They are known for their excellent customer service and attention to detail.
Shilen Rifles, Inc.
Shilen Rifles has a long-standing reputation for producing some of the most accurate barrels in the industry. Their Savage Axis .308 barrels are available in a variety of configurations, including stainless steel and chrome moly options. They are a top choice among precision shooters.
X-Caliber Barrels
X-Caliber Barrels provides custom-made barrels tailored to your specific requirements. They offer a wide selection of calibers, lengths, twists, fluting, and threading options, allowing for a truly personalized barrel build for your Savage Axis .308.
Enhancing Accuracy: Beyond the Barrel
While upgrading the barrel is a significant step toward improving accuracy, several other factors can also play a role. These include:
- Trigger Upgrade: A crisp, consistent trigger can significantly improve your ability to shoot accurately.
- Stock Upgrade: A more rigid and ergonomic stock can provide a more stable shooting platform.
- Bedding: Bedding the action to the stock can improve consistency and accuracy.
- Optics: High-quality optics are essential for precise aiming.
- Ammunition: Using consistent, high-quality ammunition is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy.
Choosing the Right Barrel for Your Needs
Selecting the right barrel for your Savage Axis .308 depends heavily on your intended use and budget. Consider the following factors:
- Intended Use: Are you primarily target shooting, hunting, or engaging in tactical applications?
- Budget: Aftermarket barrels range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand.
- Desired Accuracy: How much improvement are you seeking over the factory barrel?
- Weight Considerations: Is weight a major concern, or are you willing to sacrifice weight for improved accuracy and stability?
Maximizing Your Savage Axis .308 Performance
Upgrading your Savage Axis .308 barrel is a significant investment that can yield substantial improvements in accuracy and overall performance. By carefully considering your needs, researching available options, and seeking professional installation and headspace adjustment, you can transform your rifle into a precision shooting platform. Remember to also consider complementary upgrades such as triggers, stocks, and optics to further enhance your shooting experience. The Savage Axis .308 platform has a lot of potential that can be unlocked with the right upgrades.
