Why Upgrade Your Savage Axis .308 Stock?
Are you a proud owner of a Savage Axis .308? If so, chances are you recognize its inherent value: accuracy, affordability, and the potential to deliver impressive performance. But what if you could unlock even greater potential from your rifle? What if you could refine its accuracy, enhance its comfort, and customize its aesthetics? The answer lies, in large part, in the stock. Upgrading the stock on your Savage Axis .308 is one of the most impactful modifications you can make, leading to tangible improvements in your shooting experience. This article will delve deep into the world of Savage Axis .308 stock upgrades, equipping you with the knowledge to choose the perfect fit for your needs.
The Savage Axis, particularly in the versatile .308 Winchester caliber, has earned a reputation as a reliable and budget-friendly rifle. It’s a popular choice for hunters, target shooters, and those seeking a solid platform for long-range endeavors. However, the factory stock often leaves room for improvement. Many shooters find the stock to be less than ideal in terms of ergonomics, accuracy, and overall feel. Replacing the factory stock is often the first step serious shooters take to enhance their rifle’s performance and personalization. This transformation can unlock a new level of potential.
Why should you consider upgrading your Savage Axis .308 stock? The benefits are numerous and contribute significantly to a more enjoyable and effective shooting experience. The original factory stock can present a few challenges.
The material of many original stocks is often synthetic, which, while durable, can lack the rigidity necessary for optimal accuracy. Any flex in the stock during firing can negatively affect shot placement, leading to groups that are less tight. Also, the ergonomics of the factory stock might not be the best fit for every shooter. The length of pull (the distance from the trigger to the buttpad), the cheek weld (the contact point of your cheek on the stock), and the hand grip can all be uncomfortable or ill-fitting, making it difficult to achieve a consistent shooting posture and maintain proper sight alignment. The factory design, while functional, isn’t always designed with individual shooters in mind.
The advantages of upgrading your stock are significant. A well-chosen upgrade can substantially boost accuracy and shot consistency. A rigid stock eliminates unwanted flex and provides a stable platform for the action and barrel. This stability translates to tighter groups and more predictable point of impact. Additionally, a custom stock will significantly improve ergonomics and comfort. Finding a stock with the correct length of pull, a comfortable cheek weld, and a well-designed grip will improve your shooting stance, reduce fatigue, and allow you to maintain your focus on the target for longer periods. This can all lead to improved overall performance and enjoyment.
Furthermore, a new stock offers the opportunity to enhance the aesthetics of your rifle and personalize its appearance. The variety of colors, finishes, and designs available allows you to create a rifle that reflects your individual style. For those who want a tactical look, a chassis system is an excellent option. For those seeking something more traditional, a wood stock offers classic beauty.
Types of Savage Axis .308 Stock Upgrades
Let’s explore the major categories of stock upgrades for your Savage Axis .308.
Synthetic Stocks
One popular choice is to upgrade to a synthetic stock. These stocks are crafted from materials like fiberglass-reinforced polymers or advanced carbon fiber composites. The biggest advantage of these stocks is their exceptional durability and resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and temperature fluctuations. Synthetic stocks are often incredibly strong, reducing the risk of damage from impacts or harsh handling. Depending on the materials used, synthetic stocks can also offer a reduction in overall weight compared to wood stocks. The most common synthetic stocks utilize a composite material. A composite stock is often a mix of glass fiber, polymers, and resins. The fiberglass provides rigidity, while the polymers provide impact resistance and can reduce weight. They’re frequently designed with ergonomic enhancements and are often more affordable than other advanced materials. Several well-regarded brands specialize in synthetic stocks designed specifically for the Savage Axis .308. Boyd’s Gun Stocks, known for their wide range of options and exceptional value, offers many synthetic stocks, including those designed for tactical use. Magpul, a leading name in the firearms industry, produces durable and feature-rich synthetic stocks known for their ergonomics and adjustability. Finally, MDT (Modular Driven Technologies) produces high-performance synthetic stocks and chassis systems that are popular among serious shooters who are looking for enhanced features. Remember to consider factors like installation requirements and the adjustability options, particularly the presence of adjustable cheek rests and length-of-pull spacers, as they contribute significantly to optimal fit and comfort.
Wood Stocks
For those who appreciate the classic beauty and feel of wood, upgrading to a wood stock is an excellent option. Wood stocks are typically crafted from hardwoods, such as walnut or maple, and offer a timeless aesthetic appeal. They can be beautifully finished and often feature intricate checkering or other custom details. Wood stocks offer the potential for extensive customization, including custom finishes, engraving, and shaping. However, it’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of wood stocks. They can be susceptible to environmental factors like moisture and temperature changes, which can lead to warping or cracking if not properly cared for. Wood stocks generally have a higher weight than their synthetic counterparts. Boyd’s is again an excellent choice for beautiful, high-quality wood stocks that add a touch of class and character to the Savage Axis .308.
Chassis Systems
Beyond the standard options, chassis systems have gained significant popularity. These systems replace the entire stock with a modular aluminum or steel frame. The action of the rifle is mounted within the chassis, and the shooter can then attach a variety of accessories. Chassis systems offer several significant benefits. They typically provide exceptional accuracy due to their rigid construction. They often feature adjustable cheek rests and length-of-pull mechanisms, allowing for a perfect fit for any shooter. Chassis systems also offer incredible modularity, allowing you to add accessories such as bipods, rails, and other tactical enhancements. Brands like MDT and Oryx are renowned for their innovative and high-performance chassis systems that significantly improve the accuracy and adaptability of the Savage Axis .308. They are often a great option for shooters wanting a more tactical, precision rifle.
Other Stock Accessories
In addition to choosing the primary stock type, there are many accessories to improve functionality. Adjustable cheek rests, often integrated into the stock design, allow for precise cheek weld adjustments, optimizing eye alignment with the scope. Similarly, adjustable length-of-pull spacers enable you to customize the stock’s length to fit your physique perfectly. Some recoil pads are also more effective at mitigating felt recoil.
Choosing the Right Stock for You
Choosing the correct stock is an important decision, and it depends entirely on how you plan to use your rifle and what kind of shooting you are planning.
Consider your intended purpose. Are you primarily a hunter, a target shooter, or something in between? If you’re hunting, weight and weather resistance might be paramount, potentially steering you towards synthetic stocks or a well-treated wood stock. Camouflage patterns could also be a factor. Target shooters or precision rifle enthusiasts will prioritize accuracy, adjustability, and ergonomics. A chassis system or a high-quality synthetic stock with a full range of adjustments would be a good choice. If you’re interested in tactical or long-range shooting, you’ll probably need something with strong ergonomics and lots of modular options.
Next, you must work within your budget. Stock prices range dramatically. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on the upgrade. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always equate to better performance, but it often reflects improved materials, design features, and manufacturing quality.
Fit and ergonomics are absolutely critical. The stock must fit you properly to allow for comfortable and consistent shooting. Consider the length of pull and choose a stock that allows you to achieve a relaxed and proper trigger pull without straining. Evaluate the cheek weld. The stock should support your cheek comfortably, aligning your eye with the scope without requiring you to strain or crane your neck. Also, consider grip style. Some stocks provide a pistol grip, offering a more secure and controlled hold, while others offer a more traditional feel.
Lastly, think about compatibility with other accessories, like bipods, scope mounts, and slings. Some stocks are designed with integrated mounting points or offer compatibility with specific accessories.
Recommended Savage Axis .308 Stock Upgrades
Let’s explore some specific stock upgrade options in detail.
Boyd’s At-One Adjustable Stock
This is an excellent choice for a variety of Savage Axis .308 shooters because it provides an outstanding combination of adjustability, value, and performance. Boyd’s At-One stock features an adjustable comb and length of pull, making it easy to customize the fit to your exact needs. It is constructed from laminated hardwood for durability and stability. The At-One also includes a comfortable grip and multiple sling swivel studs, adding to its functionality.
To install a Boyd’s At-One, you’ll typically remove the original stock from your Savage Axis, detach the action and barrel, and then carefully install them into the new Boyd’s stock. The At-One is generally an easy installation for a do-it-yourselfer and doesn’t require specialty tools. You’ll want to torque the action screws to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. After installing the Boyd’s stock, you should immediately notice an improvement in both fit and feel. The adjustable comb and length of pull allow for improved eye alignment and a more consistent shooting position. The rigid construction contributes to improved accuracy by reducing flex during firing. The combination of a comfortable grip and personalized fit helps reduce fatigue, allowing for more accurate shots. The Boyd’s At-One stock represents a significant improvement over the original factory stock, offering a compelling balance of quality, features, and affordability.
Magpul Hunter Stock
Magpul is a well-known name in the firearms community, producing high-quality accessories designed for a wide array of rifles. The Magpul Hunter stock offers a durable and versatile upgrade option for the Savage Axis .308. It is constructed from a reinforced polymer and features a fully adjustable length of pull and cheek weld. This allows for a custom fit, no matter your stature. The Hunter stock also includes M-LOK slots for accessory mounting, allowing you to add bipods, slings, and other gear.
Installing the Magpul Hunter stock also requires removing the factory stock and action, but the Hunter stock comes with all necessary hardware. You may need to remove any factory bottom metal, and in some cases, you might need to purchase a separate bolt release lever. A good set of torque wrenches is required to be sure everything is properly tightened. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. The Hunter stock offers superior ergonomics and a more comfortable and consistent shooting experience. You will appreciate the adjustability. The durable polymer construction is able to stand up to the rigors of field use. The M-LOK slots and overall design provide a wealth of customization options.
MDT LSS-XL Gen2 Chassis System
The MDT (Modular Driven Technologies) LSS-XL Gen2 chassis is a top-tier choice for shooters seeking the ultimate in accuracy and tactical performance. MDT chassis are known for their rigid aluminum construction, ergonomic design, and modularity. This model provides a solid platform for your Savage Axis .308, allowing for significant improvements in accuracy and customization options.
Installing the MDT LSS-XL Gen2 chassis involves a few more steps than traditional stock swaps. You remove the action and barrel from your Savage Axis, and then mount them into the aluminum chassis. The LSS-XL Gen2 chassis is typically compatible with standard AR-15-style pistol grips and accepts most AR-15-style carbine stocks. The chassis also comes with integrated M-LOK slots for mounting accessories. This is a significant upgrade for serious shooters looking for extreme performance. The rigid aluminum construction eliminates flex and increases precision. The modular design allows for easy customization with a wide range of accessories.
Installation Tips and Considerations
When upgrading your Savage Axis .308 stock, keep in mind the importance of a proper installation. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance. Make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand. You’ll likely need a set of screwdrivers, a torque wrench to tighten action screws to the recommended specifications, and potentially other tools depending on the chosen stock. Be sure to double-check all screws and fittings after installation to ensure everything is properly secured.
Before installing your new stock, consider properly cleaning your rifle and preparing the action for installation. Many shooters prefer to clean the barrel before mounting it in the new stock.
When it comes to torque specifications, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, as overtightening or undertightening can affect accuracy and potentially damage the stock or the action. Always refer to the instructions provided with your chosen stock for the correct torque values.
If you have trouble with the installation or encounter any problems, do not hesitate to seek assistance from a gunsmith or experienced shooter. They can offer guidance and ensure a safe and successful installation.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Upgrading the stock on your Savage Axis .308 is an outstanding way to unlock the full potential of your rifle. By considering the type of shooting you’re planning, your budget, the ergonomics, and the overall fit, you can find the perfect stock upgrade to meet your needs. Whether you prefer the classic beauty of wood, the durability of synthetic materials, or the modularity of a chassis system, the options available are vast and varied.
Remember, a well-chosen stock can significantly improve accuracy, comfort, and the overall shooting experience. If you want to take your Savage Axis .308 to the next level, upgrading the stock is a smart place to start.
Now is the time to begin your journey to enhance your shooting experience. Research the options and consider which features and styles suit your requirements. Explore various stock options and carefully review the features and options. Choose the best stock for you. Consider your needs and start customizing your rifle!
