## What Barrels Work with Savage Axis .308: The Definitive Guide
Are you looking to upgrade or replace the barrel on your Savage Axis .308 rifle? Understanding barrel compatibility is crucial to ensure optimal performance, accuracy, and safety. This comprehensive guide will explore the various barrel options available for your Savage Axis .308, providing expert insights and practical advice to help you make the best choice. We’ll cover everything from thread pitch and barrel nut systems to aftermarket options and installation considerations. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a novice shooter, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to enhance your Savage Axis .308.
### Why Barrel Choice Matters for Your Savage Axis .308
The barrel is the heart of any rifle, and the Savage Axis .308 is no exception. The barrel’s quality, length, twist rate, and material significantly impact accuracy, velocity, and overall shooting experience. Upgrading or replacing your barrel can offer numerous benefits, including:
* **Improved Accuracy:** A higher-quality barrel with precise rifling can enhance your rifle’s inherent accuracy.
* **Increased Velocity:** Different barrel lengths can affect bullet velocity, influencing its trajectory and energy downrange.
* **Customization:** Swapping barrels allows you to tailor your rifle to specific shooting applications, such as hunting, target shooting, or long-range precision.
* **Extended Lifespan:** Replacing a worn-out barrel can restore your rifle’s performance and extend its useful life.
### Understanding Savage Axis .308 Barrel Compatibility
The Savage Axis .308 utilizes a unique barrel nut system, which simplifies barrel swaps compared to traditional threaded receivers. However, this system also introduces certain compatibility considerations. Here’s what you need to know:
* **Thread Pitch:** The Savage Axis .308 typically uses a 1-1/16″ x 20 TPI (threads per inch) thread pitch. This is a crucial specification to verify when selecting a new barrel.
* **Barrel Nut System:** The barrel nut secures the barrel to the receiver. Ensure any replacement barrel is designed to work with the Savage Axis barrel nut system or includes a compatible nut.
* **Headspace:** Headspace is the distance between the bolt face and the datum line on the cartridge shoulder. Proper headspace is essential for safe and accurate firing. When swapping barrels, it’s crucial to check and adjust headspace if necessary. Some manufacturers sell barrels that require gunsmith fitting for proper headspace.
* **Action Length:** The Savage Axis .308 uses a short action. Ensure any replacement barrel is designed for a short action receiver.
### Exploring Available Barrel Options for Savage Axis .308
Several options are available when choosing a barrel for your Savage Axis .308, ranging from factory replacements to aftermarket upgrades. Here’s a breakdown of the most common choices:
* **Factory Replacement Barrels:** Savage Arms offers direct replacement barrels for the Axis .308. These barrels are guaranteed to fit and function correctly with your rifle.
* **Aftermarket Barrels:** Numerous aftermarket manufacturers produce high-quality barrels for the Savage Axis .308. These barrels often feature enhanced materials, tighter tolerances, and custom rifling profiles for improved accuracy.
* **Pre-Fit Barrels:** Pre-fit barrels are designed to be easily installed by the end-user without requiring extensive gunsmithing. These barrels typically come with the correct thread pitch and headspace, simplifying the installation process.
* **Custom Barrels:** For the ultimate in customization, you can have a custom barrel made to your exact specifications. This option allows you to choose the barrel length, twist rate, contour, and material to suit your specific needs.
### Top Aftermarket Barrel Manufacturers for Savage Axis .308
When it comes to aftermarket barrels, several manufacturers stand out for their quality, performance, and reputation. Here are some of the top brands to consider:
* **Criterion Barrels:** Criterion Barrels is known for producing high-quality, accurate barrels for a variety of firearms, including the Savage Axis .308. Their barrels are made from premium materials and feature meticulous craftsmanship.
* **Shilen Rifles, Inc.:** Shilen offers a range of match-grade barrels for the Savage Axis .308. Their barrels are renowned for their exceptional accuracy and consistency.
* **McGowen Precision Barrels:** McGowen Precision Barrels specializes in custom and pre-fit barrels for various rifles, including the Savage Axis .308. They offer a wide range of options to suit different shooting applications.
* **X-Caliber Barrels:** X-Caliber offers a wide variety of barrel blanks and pre-fit barrels for the Savage Axis. They offer customization options for fluting, coatings, and custom profiles.
* **Lothar Walther:** Lothar Walther is a German barrel maker known for extremely high quality barrels. Their barrels are used by many top shooters and manufacturers.
### Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barrel
Selecting the right barrel for your Savage Axis .308 involves considering several factors to ensure optimal performance and suitability for your shooting needs:
* **Barrel Length:** Barrel length affects bullet velocity and maneuverability. Shorter barrels are more compact and easier to handle, while longer barrels generally produce higher velocities. Common barrel lengths for .308 rifles range from 16 to 26 inches. For hunting, 20-22″ is popular. For long range, 24-26″ is often preferred.
* **Twist Rate:** Twist rate refers to the number of inches it takes for the rifling inside the barrel to complete one full rotation. The twist rate affects the bullet’s stability in flight. A faster twist rate (e.g., 1:10) is better suited for heavier bullets, while a slower twist rate (e.g., 1:12) is ideal for lighter bullets. The .308 typically uses a 1:10 or 1:12 twist rate.
* **Barrel Contour:** The barrel contour, or profile, affects the barrel’s weight and stiffness. Heavier contours, such as bull barrels, are more rigid and less prone to vibration, resulting in improved accuracy. Lighter contours are more maneuverable but may be more susceptible to heat-induced warping. The Savage Axis typically comes with a sporter contour barrel. You can upgrade to a heavier varmint or bull barrel.
* **Material:** Barrels are typically made from steel alloys, such as chrome-moly or stainless steel. Chrome-moly barrels are more affordable and offer good performance. Stainless steel barrels are more resistant to corrosion and heat, making them a popular choice for precision shooting.
* **Rifling Method:** Rifling is the process of creating grooves inside the barrel to impart spin on the bullet. Common rifling methods include cut rifling, button rifling, and hammer forging. Cut rifling is considered the most precise method but is also the most expensive. Button rifling is a more affordable alternative that still produces accurate results. Hammer forging is a fast and efficient method commonly used for mass production barrels.
### Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Savage Axis .308 Barrel
Replacing your Savage Axis .308 barrel is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps and take necessary safety precautions. Here’s a general guide:
1. **Ensure the rifle is unloaded:** Verify that the chamber is empty and the magazine is removed.
2. **Remove the action from the stock:** Unscrew the action screws and carefully lift the action out of the stock.
3. **Secure the action in a vise:** Use a vise with soft jaws to securely hold the action without damaging it.
4. **Loosen the barrel nut:** Use a barrel nut wrench to loosen the barrel nut. You may need to apply some force to break it free.
5. **Remove the barrel:** Once the barrel nut is loose, unscrew it completely and remove the barrel from the action.
6. **Install the new barrel:** Apply a thin layer of grease to the threads of the new barrel. Screw the new barrel into the action until it is snug.
7. **Tighten the barrel nut:** Install the barrel nut and tighten it to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification using a barrel nut wrench.
8. **Check headspace:** Use headspace gauges to verify that the headspace is within the proper range. If the headspace is incorrect, you may need to adjust the barrel nut or use shims.
9. **Reassemble the rifle:** Reinstall the action into the stock and tighten the action screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.
**Important Note:** This is a general guide. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific barrel and follow all safety precautions. If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it’s best to seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith.
### Headspace Explained: Why It’s Critical
Headspace is the distance from the bolt face to a specific point on the cartridge case when the cartridge is fully seated in the chamber. It’s a critical dimension that directly affects the rifle’s safety and accuracy.
* **Excessive Headspace:** If the headspace is too large, the cartridge may not be properly supported, leading to case rupture or misfires. This can be dangerous and damage the rifle.
* **Insufficient Headspace:** If the headspace is too small, the bolt may not close completely, or the cartridge may be crushed, leading to difficulty in chambering and extracting rounds. This can also affect accuracy.
Checking and adjusting headspace is essential when swapping barrels to ensure safe and reliable operation. Headspace gauges are used to measure the headspace dimension. If the headspace is not within the proper range, it must be adjusted by a qualified gunsmith.
### Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Your Savage Axis .308 Barrel
While replacing a Savage Axis .308 barrel is relatively straightforward, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to problems:
* **Using the wrong thread pitch:** Ensure the replacement barrel has the correct thread pitch for your Savage Axis .308 receiver.
* **Over-tightening the barrel nut:** Over-tightening the barrel nut can damage the receiver or barrel. Use a torque wrench to tighten the nut to the manufacturer’s recommended specification.
* **Ignoring headspace:** Failing to check and adjust headspace can lead to unsafe and inaccurate shooting.
* **Damaging the receiver threads:** Be careful not to cross-thread or damage the receiver threads when installing the new barrel.
* **Using improper tools:** Using the wrong tools can damage the barrel, receiver, or barrel nut.
### The Importance of Professional Gunsmithing
While some shooters are comfortable replacing their Savage Axis .308 barrel themselves, it’s often best to seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith. A gunsmith has the knowledge, skills, and tools to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. They can also:
* **Properly check and adjust headspace.**
* **Ensure the barrel is properly aligned with the receiver.**
* **Inspect the rifle for any other potential issues.**
* **Provide expert advice on barrel selection and maintenance.**
### Optimizing Your Savage Axis .308 for Accuracy
Upgrading your barrel is a significant step towards improving your Savage Axis .308’s accuracy, but it’s not the only factor to consider. Here are some additional tips for optimizing your rifle’s performance:
* **Upgrade the trigger:** A crisp, consistent trigger can significantly improve your shooting accuracy.
* **Install a better stock:** A more rigid and ergonomic stock can enhance stability and reduce recoil.
* **Use quality ammunition:** Consistent, high-quality ammunition is essential for achieving optimal accuracy.
* **Properly mount and zero your scope:** A properly mounted and zeroed scope is crucial for accurate aiming.
* **Practice proper shooting techniques:** Consistent shooting techniques, such as proper breathing, trigger control, and follow-through, are essential for achieving optimal accuracy.
### The Future of Savage Axis .308 Barrel Technology
The world of firearms technology is constantly evolving, and barrel technology is no exception. We can expect to see further advancements in barrel materials, rifling methods, and coatings in the coming years. These advancements will likely lead to even more accurate, durable, and efficient barrels for the Savage Axis .308 and other rifles.
* **Carbon Fiber Wrapped Barrels:** These barrels are gaining popularity for their lightweight and heat-dissipating properties.
* **Improved Barrel Coatings:** Advances in coatings are improving corrosion resistance and reducing friction.
* **Optimized Rifling Profiles:** New rifling designs are being developed to improve bullet stability and accuracy.
### Q&A: Addressing Your Savage Axis .308 Barrel Questions
**Q1: Can I use a barrel from a different Savage model on my Axis .308?**
No, you should not use a barrel from a different Savage model unless it is specifically designed to be compatible with the Axis .308. Different models may have different thread pitches, action lengths, and other critical dimensions.
**Q2: What is the best twist rate for shooting heavy .308 bullets?**
A 1:10 twist rate is generally recommended for shooting heavy .308 bullets (175 grains or heavier). This twist rate provides sufficient stabilization for these heavier projectiles.
**Q3: How often should I clean my Savage Axis .308 barrel?**
The frequency of cleaning depends on the type of ammunition you are using and how often you are shooting. Generally, it’s a good idea to clean your barrel after every shooting session or after firing 100-200 rounds.
**Q4: Can I change the caliber of my Savage Axis by swapping the barrel?**
Yes, you can change the caliber of your Savage Axis by swapping the barrel, but only to calibers that are compatible with the action length and bolt face. The .308 is a short action, so you would need to choose another short action cartridge.
**Q5: What tools do I need to replace my Savage Axis .308 barrel?**
You will need a vise with soft jaws, a barrel nut wrench, a torque wrench, headspace gauges, and a cleaning rod.
**Q6: Are there any legal restrictions on replacing my Savage Axis .308 barrel?**
In most jurisdictions, there are no legal restrictions on replacing your Savage Axis .308 barrel, as long as you are not changing the overall length of the rifle to less than the legal minimum. However, it’s always a good idea to check your local laws and regulations.
**Q7: How can I tell if my Savage Axis .308 barrel is worn out?**
Signs of a worn-out barrel include decreased accuracy, difficulty in cleaning, and visual evidence of erosion or pitting inside the barrel.
**Q8: What is the best way to break in a new Savage Axis .308 barrel?**
There are several different methods for breaking in a new barrel. One common method is to fire one shot, clean the barrel, fire another shot, clean the barrel, and repeat this process for the first 10-20 rounds. This helps to smooth out the rifling and improve accuracy.
**Q9: Can I Cerakote my Savage Axis .308 barrel?**
Yes, you can Cerakote your Savage Axis .308 barrel. Cerakote is a durable and corrosion-resistant coating that can improve the appearance and performance of your barrel.
**Q10: What is the difference between a button-rifled and a cut-rifled barrel?**
Button-rifled barrels are made by pushing a button-shaped tool through the barrel to form the rifling. Cut-rifled barrels are made by cutting the rifling grooves one at a time using a specialized tool. Cut-rifled barrels are generally considered to be more precise, but they are also more expensive.
### Conclusion: Choosing the Right Barrel for Your Savage Axis .308
Selecting the right barrel for your Savage Axis .308 is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your rifle’s performance and your overall shooting experience. By understanding the various barrel options available, considering the factors that affect barrel performance, and following the correct installation procedures, you can enhance your Savage Axis .308 and achieve your shooting goals. Remember to prioritize safety and seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith if you are not comfortable performing the barrel replacement yourself. Share your experiences with Savage Axis .308 barrel upgrades in the comments below and explore our other guides for further enhancing your shooting skills and equipment. Contact our experts for personalized recommendations on what barrels work best for your specific needs.
