Introduction
The world of shooting and hunting often feels complex, filled with high-end equipment and intimidating price tags. However, the reality is that you don’t always need to break the bank to achieve impressive performance. One such combination, built for both accuracy and affordability, is the Savage Axis rifle chambered in the versatile 22-250 caliber, topped with a reliable Bushnell scope. This setup provides an excellent entry point for those new to the sport, as well as a practical, cost-effective solution for experienced shooters and hunters seeking a capable long-range platform. This article dives deep into the specifics of this pairing, offering a detailed look at the rifle, the cartridge, scope selection, performance, and more, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone considering this setup.
The Savage Axis Rifle: Unveiling its Strengths
For those seeking an accessible rifle, the Savage Axis has carved a niche for itself in the firearms market. It’s a name synonymous with value, and understanding the core features of this bolt-action rifle is crucial for evaluating its performance when paired with a quality scope.
Understanding the Foundations
The Savage Axis was conceived with the goal of delivering accurate shooting at a lower price point than more premium rifles. This involves smart material choices, streamlined manufacturing, and an unwavering focus on performance. The rifle’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, foregoing unnecessary frills to keep the cost down. This makes it an ideal starting point for anyone interested in hunting or target shooting without making a huge investment.
Key Characteristics and Specs
The Savage Axis relies on a robust bolt-action, renowned for its reliability. The bolt, an essential component, locks directly into the receiver, providing solid lockup and consistent performance shot after shot. The stock is typically crafted from a durable synthetic material, providing a rugged platform that can withstand the elements. While the exact materials and finishes can vary between different Axis models, the core design principles of durability and practical utility always prevail.
The trigger system, often a key component in a rifle’s accuracy, is a highlight of the Axis. Many models come equipped with Savage’s AccuTrigger, an adjustable trigger system designed to provide a crisp, clean break and minimal creep. The barrel length and twist rate are carefully selected to optimize the ballistic performance of the 22-250 cartridge. The magazine capacity offers ample rounds for hunting or target practice. The weight is managed well, allowing for comfortable handling and carrying in the field.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Savage Axis presents a compelling package, but like any firearm, it has both strengths and weaknesses. The affordability is undeniably a major draw, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters. The accuracy potential, thanks in part to the AccuTrigger and well-designed barrel, is impressive for a rifle in its price range. The Axis offers a good combination of reliability and ease of use, making it great for beginners and experienced shooters alike.
However, some considerations are present. While the synthetic stock is durable, the finish and design can sometimes be seen as basic compared to the higher-end rifles. The trigger, although adjustable, may still require some fine-tuning to achieve optimal performance. Additionally, the budget-friendly design could impact resale value.
The 22-250 Cartridge: The Heart of the Matter
Pairing the Savage Axis with the 22-250 cartridge is a deliberate choice, and a careful understanding of the 22-250’s capabilities is key to appreciating the overall system.
Tracing the Cartridge’s History
The 22-250 Remington, often simply referred to as the 22-250, has a rich history rooted in the competitive shooting world. Developed based on an earlier wildcat cartridge, the 22-250 quickly gained popularity due to its high velocity, excellent accuracy, and flat trajectory. It became a favorite among varmint hunters and target shooters alike, and its influence has extended across multiple generations.
Ballistic Excellence and Performance
The 22-250 is celebrated for its impressive ballistic performance. It delivers high muzzle velocities, translating to a flat trajectory that minimizes bullet drop at longer ranges. This feature is particularly important for accurate long-range shots. The 22-250 is often chambered in a wide range of rifles, and each one is carefully designed with an appropriate barrel twist rate to achieve optimal bullet stabilization. The ability to deliver impressive velocities and good downrange energy makes this cartridge an excellent choice for varmint control, predator hunting, and long-range target shooting.
Ammunition Choices and Selection
The 22-250 offers a wide selection of bullet weights and designs, allowing shooters to tailor their ammunition to specific needs. Lighter bullets are often favored for varmint hunting, offering extremely high velocities and explosive expansion upon impact. Heavier bullets can be used for predators such as coyotes and bobcats and offer enhanced penetration and better resistance to wind drift at longer ranges. Understanding the different bullet types available, from varmint rounds to hunting bullets, is crucial for maximizing the 22-250’s effectiveness.
Bushnell Scope: Elevating the View
Selecting the right scope is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of any rifle. Bushnell is one of the best names in the scope business, and is known for its commitment to delivering quality optics at accessible prices.
A Reputation for Excellence
Bushnell has earned a strong reputation over the years, becoming a favorite among shooters and hunters. The brand has a proven track record, catering to a wide range of budgets and shooting styles. Bushnell scopes are known for their clear glass, reliable performance, and user-friendly features.
Defining the Scope for Success
Several factors must be considered when choosing a scope for a Savage Axis 22-250. Magnification range is one of the most important considerations. A variable magnification scope allows the user to adapt to different shooting distances and scenarios. The size of the objective lens is equally important because it influences the light-gathering ability of the scope. A larger objective lens collects more light, making it ideal for low-light hunting or shooting.
The reticle type is another critical feature. The reticle is the crosshair or aiming point within the scope. Several types are available, from simple duplex reticles to more advanced designs with ballistic compensation.
Consider the type of turrets the scope features, capped or exposed. Capped turrets protect the adjustments from accidental movement, while exposed turrets allow for quick adjustments in the field. The diameter of the scope tube should be taken into account as well, because it’ll need to match the scope rings.
Recommending Specific Models
Choosing a Bushnell scope often depends on the budget, but several models provide great value for the Axis 22-250. Consider the Banner series from Bushnell. Known for their affordability, the Banner scopes provide a good balance of features and performance. Another option is the Trophy series, which offers better light transmission and more rugged construction. The Engage series brings added optical clarity and more advanced features to the mix. These scopes are well-suited for hunters and shooters.
Mounting and Zeroing the Scope
Proper scope mounting and zeroing are essential for achieving accurate shots. Securely mounting the scope with the right scope rings and bases is the first step. Then, the scope must be aligned with the barrel to achieve a solid zero at a specific distance. This process generally involves bore sighting to get the scope aligned, followed by shooting groups at a target to fine-tune the adjustments and ensure consistent point of impact.
Achieving Top-Tier Performance
Accuracy Expectations
When properly set up, the Savage Axis 22-250 combined with a good Bushnell scope, is capable of exceptional accuracy. However, achieving those results requires a good combination of factors. The best results are possible when the shooter pays close attention to bullet selection, proper scope mounting, and consistent shooting techniques.
Practical Shooting Insights
Putting this combination to work at the range or in the field is the best way to see the true potential of this setup. With the right ammunition, the shooter can expect tight groupings at typical hunting ranges, and even the ability to make accurate shots at extended distances.
Maximizing Precision
To get the most from the Savage Axis 22-250 and Bushnell scope, the shooter must pay attention to the details. Developing and employing consistent shooting habits will have a big effect on results. Proper trigger control, breathing techniques, and the use of a steady rest will all contribute to improving shot placement.
Taking Care of Your Investment
Maintaining Your Rifle
Barrel Care
The Savage Axis rifle, like any firearm, demands diligent maintenance. Cleaning the barrel regularly is critical for maintaining accuracy and preventing corrosion. Using a high-quality cleaning rod, patches, and solvents is essential to effectively remove fouling and residue.
Bolt Maintenance
Cleaning and lubricating the bolt mechanism ensures smooth cycling and reliable operation. Removing the bolt from the rifle for cleaning removes dirt and debris. Proper lubrication minimizes friction, ensuring that the rifle functions smoothly.
Stock Care
The stock needs attention, too. Checking for any damage is key. Regular inspection and cleaning of the stock are essential for maintaining the rifle’s overall appearance and longevity.
Maintaining Your Scope
Lens Care
Maintaining the scope involves a few key steps. Careful cleaning of the lenses is a must. Using a lens cleaning solution and a soft cloth can prevent scratches and damage.
Protecting the Scope
Protecting the scope from impacts and environmental exposure is important. When not in use, the scope should be stored safely. Protective lens caps are recommended to prevent dust and debris from accumulating on the lenses.
Mount Inspection
The rings and bases must be in good condition to maintain zero. Regularly checking the scope mounts for secure attachment is essential.
Conclusion
The Savage Axis 22-250 with a Bushnell scope offers an exceptional blend of value and performance. This combination provides a versatile platform for varmint hunting, target shooting, and predator control. The affordable nature of the Axis rifle, combined with the reliability and clarity of the Bushnell scope, makes this package an attractive option for shooters of various skill levels. The 22-250 cartridge provides long-range capability and exceptional accuracy, and the setup is capable of delivering consistent, precise shots.
For those looking for a cost-effective way to step into the world of long-range shooting or varmint hunting, this setup is hard to beat. With the proper attention to detail in scope selection, mounting, zeroing, and maintenance, this pairing will provide many years of enjoyable and accurate shooting. This setup is a perfect choice for any hunter.
