A Closer Look at the Savage Axis 270 Rifle
The Savage Axis 270. A rifle known for its affordability, reliability, and the ability to put meat on the table. It’s a popular choice among hunters and recreational shooters alike, a testament to its straightforward design and accurate performance. But let’s be honest, the factory stock, while functional, isn’t always the most comfortable or the most conducive to peak accuracy. It’s often made of a basic polymer, designed for practicality and cost-effectiveness, but it can sometimes lack the refinements needed for a truly personalized shooting experience. This is where the aftermarket steps in, offering a wide array of options to significantly enhance your rifle.
This article dives deep into the world of aftermarket stocks for the Savage Axis 270, exploring the benefits of upgrading your rifle and the various stock materials, designs, and features available. We’ll examine popular stock options, offering reviews and recommendations to guide you in your quest to find the perfect upgrade, one that will not only improve the look of your rifle but also the way it performs. Ultimately, we’ll help you make an informed decision, ensuring you get the most out of your Savage Axis 270.
The Original Stock
Before we delve into the specifics of stock options, let’s briefly revisit the foundation of our discussion: the Savage Axis 270. This bolt-action rifle, introduced by Savage Arms, quickly gained traction in the hunting community. Chambered in the versatile .270 Winchester cartridge, it’s suitable for a wide range of game, from deer and antelope to larger species. The rifle’s popularity stems from its accuracy, ease of use, and most importantly, its accessibility. It offered a lot of performance for the price, making it an attractive option for both experienced hunters and those new to the sport.
Why Consider a Replacement
The decision to upgrade your Savage Axis 270 stock is a smart one. Replacing the factory stock can deliver tangible improvements in several key areas. First and foremost, accuracy. A stiffer, more rigid stock minimizes flex during the shot, leading to more consistent bullet placement. Second, ergonomics. A properly fitted stock, with the correct length of pull and comb height, will make your rifle more comfortable to shoot and promote better shooting form. This translates directly into improved accuracy and reduced fatigue. Third, enhanced handling. A stock designed with a better grip, improved balance, and perhaps even a textured surface, will make the rifle easier to control, especially in challenging conditions. Finally, appearance. Let’s be honest, a new stock can transform the look of your rifle, allowing you to express your personal style.
Understanding the Materials
The material the stock is made from significantly impacts its performance and characteristics. Several options are available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Synthetic Choices
Synthetic stocks are very popular due to their durability and resistance to the elements.
Synthetics benefit from their resilience to changes in temperature and humidity. They won’t warp or swell like wood can, which can be important if you are hunting in wet or fluctuating climates. There are also typically lower maintenance requirements, and are easier to keep clean. Synthetic stocks often incorporate advanced materials and designs to improve rigidity and reduce weight.
Fiberglass-reinforced polymer stocks are known for their strength and durability. The addition of fiberglass fibers to the polymer matrix greatly enhances the stock’s resistance to flexing and warping. These stocks typically offer good value and can be found in a variety of colors and finishes.
Injection-molded polymer stocks are a common option because they’re cost-effective and can be manufactured to specific designs. However, they might not be as rigid as fiberglass-reinforced polymer stocks, and the quality of the injection molding can vary.
Wood Stocks
Wood stocks, while perhaps not as common as they once were, still have a loyal following.
Wood offers a classic aesthetic that many shooters find appealing. Quality wood stocks, especially those made from walnut, can also provide excellent vibration dampening, potentially improving accuracy. There is also the ability to customize them through checkering and engraving.
Laminate wood stocks are constructed from layers of wood glued together. This construction method makes them extremely strong and stable, resistant to warping. Laminate stocks can also be produced in a variety of colors and patterns. The major downside is that they can be heavier than synthetic alternatives.
Aluminum Bedding
When searching for a Savage Axis 270 stock, keep an eye out for options with aluminum bedding. This is a key feature that enhances accuracy and consistency. Aluminum bedding, whether a full-length bedding block or a combination of bedding pillars, provides a rigid and stable platform for the action. It eliminates flex in the stock, ensuring consistent alignment between the action and the barrel, which is critical for accuracy.
Exploring the Choices
Now, let’s delve into some specific stock options that are popular for the Savage Axis 270.
A Specific Synthetic Stock
This stock is designed to be a drop-in replacement for your Savage Axis 270, eliminating the need for complex gunsmithing.
It’s constructed from a rugged, lightweight polymer, offering excellent durability and weather resistance. Key features include an ergonomically designed grip, a comfortable cheek piece, and multiple sling swivel studs for easy carrying. The stock also might feature a recoil pad designed to absorb the felt recoil from the .270 Winchester round. The price is often reasonable for the quality.
A Specific Wood Stock
This stock offers a classic and elegant look for the Savage Axis 270.
Made from high-quality walnut, it features a beautifully finished surface and attractive checkering on the grip and forend. The design often prioritizes comfort and a traditional feel, providing a natural point of aim. The pros are that it looks great and it offers vibration dampening. The cons are the price, it isn’t as durable as synthetic and it is more prone to environmental factors. Expect a higher price point compared to synthetic options.
Installing and Adjusting Your New Stock
Replacing the stock on your Savage Axis 270 is a task that can be accomplished by most shooters with a basic level of mechanical aptitude.
The first step is to remove the action and barrel from the existing stock. This typically involves removing the action screws. Carefully separate the action from the old stock. Transfer the action and barrel assembly into the new stock, making sure everything fits properly. Reinstall the action screws, tightening them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
Remember to take safety precautions and if you’re not completely comfortable performing these steps, consider consulting a gunsmith.
Customization can further enhance your shooting experience. Adjustable cheek pieces allow you to customize the stock’s comb height to perfectly align with your scope. Bedding, whether through glass bedding or the use of bedding pillars, can improve accuracy by creating a rigid and stable platform for the action.
Important Factors in Your Decision
Choosing the right Savage Axis 270 stock involves several important factors.
Consider the primary purpose of your rifle. If you are a hunter who spends a lot of time in the field, weight and weather resistance will be very important. For target shooting, focus on adjustability, bedding, and the quality of the recoil pad. Set a budget before you begin searching, as stock prices can vary considerably. Try to handle stocks in person if possible to gauge comfort and fit. Consider the length of pull, comb height, and grip shape. Finally, choose a stock that appeals to your aesthetic preferences. Do you prefer a classic wood look, or a more modern, tactical appearance?
The best Savage Axis 270 stock is ultimately the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. It should feel comfortable, promote good shooting form, and contribute to improved accuracy and handling.
Conclusion
Upgrading the stock on your Savage Axis 270 is a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve your shooting experience. By choosing the right material, features, and fit, you can transform your rifle into a more accurate, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing tool. Whether you choose a rugged synthetic stock for hunting in harsh conditions or a beautifully crafted wood stock for target shooting, the result will be a rifle that performs at its best and a shooting experience that is more enjoyable.
With careful consideration of the factors mentioned above, you can find a Savage Axis 270 stock that not only meets your functional needs but also reflects your personal style. Don’t settle for a factory stock that may not fit your needs. Take the time to explore the options and upgrade your rifle today.
Find a Savage Axis 270 stock that is right for you and start experiencing the improvements that come with a well-fitted and high-performing rifle.
