First 2 range trips with .308 AXIS SR

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11-19-2014, 02:51 PM
savagemann

First 2 range trips with .308 AXIS SR

So a couple weeks ago I grabbed an Axis SR for a steal with the $50 rebate.
I ordered some TPS low rings, and EGW 0moa mount and a Primary Arms 4-16 x 44 optic.
This all came in a hair under $500.

http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/...ps4023411b.jpg

I lightly blue loctited all fasteners and used a small torque wrench to install everything.
While I was waiting for the rifle, I made my first .308 reloads using varget and 175gr Nosler CC BTHP with once fired range pickup brass and win LR Primers.
I full length sized the brass and loaded up a middle of the road load using several data sheets as reference.

I planned on doing some modifications to the trigger and stock, but did not do so before my first range trip.
First day at the range I used some PPU factory ammo to get a zero. Within 3 shots I was in the black. After a few more I had a decent zero.
The factory trigger was VERY heavy but seemed to break fairly clean.

So I moved it out to 200 yards to test out the reloads.
I was blown away by the accuracy of a sub $500 out the door price of this rifle with loads that hadn't even been developed yet.

http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/...ps56f30fe8.jpg

It measures around 1.2" at 200 yards. This was without rezeroing for the reloads.

Fast forward to the next weekend and I took it out to the 100 yards range (200 yard range closed this week) and worked on the zero a little more.
After a few minor adjustments to the scope I sat down to fire a group.

http://i1265.photobucket.com/albums/...psdf5e984a.jpg

.58" at 100 yards.
11-19-2014, 03:04 PM
daddyusmaximus

Nice! Just getting started on a .308 Axis my got me for my birthday. I'm hoping for good results based on everything I've read on this cheep rifle. I want a fatter, fluted barrel, and I'd love a threaded one, but I'm going to see what it can do with the factory barrel. Good shooting.
11-19-2014, 03:04 PM
savagemann

Between the first range trip and the second, I did the modifications to the trigger and stock.
I used some 7075 aluminum tubing in the fore end running from the recoil lug up to the front end, then filled the channels in with epoxy.
This really stiffened up the fore end.
I also replaced the stock trigger spring with a 75c spring from Ace Hardware.
This reduced the trigger pull to around 3lbs, maybe lower.
I think this configuration is perfect for a hunting application.....BUT, I do have a Boyds Tacticool stock and Timney trigger on the way, along with a threaded bolt handle and 2" handle.
For xmas, I am asking for an ER Shaw varmint barrel.

All in all, the Axis rifles are amazing for the price.
I was originally planning on getting a PC10, but was having issues saving money.
The axis will give me time to play around and save for whatever it is I really end up wanting.
11-19-2014, 03:06 PM
daddyusmaximus

Where did you source the threaded bolt handle? I've only seen full ones.
11-19-2014, 03:07 PM
savagemann

Quote:

Originally Posted by daddyusmaximus

Nice! Just getting started on a .308 Axis my got me for my birthday. I'm hoping for good results based on everything I've read on this cheep rifle. I want a fatter, fluted barrel, and I'd love a threaded one, but I'm going to see what it can do with the factory barrel. Good shooting.

Thanks!
I am more than happy with the factory barrel, but it does start to get a little warm after 5-10 rounds.
With the factory ammo, I was seeing 1 to 2 MOA accuracy, but I was also just starting to warm up to the rifle.
11-19-2014, 03:08 PM
savagemann

Quote:

Originally Posted by daddyusmaximus

Where did you source the threaded bolt handle? I've only seen full ones.

I found one on ebay. It is an Axis factory handle that someone threaded. A little spendy at $55, but it is what I wanted.
I have access to tools and a machine shop, but to be honest, the amount of time it would have taken me is not worth saving $55!
11-19-2014, 03:16 PM
daddyusmaximus

Crap. I got grounded from ebay a while back. Maybe if I ask real nice...
11-24-2014, 04:33 PM
Got Diesel

How do you like the 4-16 Primary Arms?
11-24-2014, 11:50 PM
savagemann

Quote:

Originally Posted by Got Diesel

How do you like the 4-16 Primary Arms?

It's OK for the price.....But it is nowhere near the quality of my Primary Arms 4-14x FFP.
The glass isn't very clear. I have a really hard time seeing .308 holes at 200 yards.
With my 4-14x FFP I can clearly see .223 holes at 200 yards.
The 4-16 doesn't seem to focus very well.
Like I said, for the price, it is OK.
I am thinking of getting a SWFA SS 10x fixed to replace it.
11-25-2014, 12:18 AM
cowtownup

Glades armory has the bolt handles daddyusmaximus
11-25-2014, 08:58 AM
daddyusmaximus

Thanks, but those are for a 110 series rifle. It doesn't say they fit an Axis.