I have done savage axis re-barrels before, as well as a couple Mausers and have the tools. This .30-06 is beyond stubborn.

I am thinking that maybe the barrel nut has no room to back off? I have cracked 3 sets of barrel vise blocks tightening it down some "more" after the barrel starts to slip. Should I try and turn the action loose first? Has anyone else seen this?

Thanks in advance for your response.