What brand of ammo? Federal uses military grade primers in a lot of their .223 ammo which some bolt action rifles may not be able to set off. That being said I have a regular Axis in .223 and i regularly use Federal ammo with such primers and have never experienced a misfire. You also read correct, there is no way to adjust the firing pin spring in the axis bolts like you can in the 110/111 models. I would go with the previous suggestion of disassembling the bolt, cleaning with gun scrubber or non chlorinated brake cleaner and a nylon brush, then sparingly oil and reassemble and try again. I have had mine apart for cleaning once and it was very simple and straightforward, just take not of how it comes apart and you will be fine. This forum has a great thread on disassembling the axis bolt here: http://www.savageshooters.com/conten...y-Instructions.