Savage Axis Bolt issues

[Blanco]

Got a new Axis in .308
Took it for some range time this past weekend. It shoots pretty good for a $300 rifle. The trigger is amazingly heavy though.
The other issue is the bolt. while it is a bit stiff cycling it with no ammo. I had 2 occasions where it hung up, after a live round being shot. I could lift the bolt after the shot but it was next to impossible to pull back to eject the spent brass.
I suspect it might need some deburring??

Any ideas or suggestions

Blanco

 

[jimmyraythomason]

Strange. I just got one in .243 and it works as slick as teflon ball bearings with a 3lb trgger. I got it used so I can't say whether it has been worked over or not.

 

[243winxb]

Make sure the bolt face is in the correct position, see instructions. Try differrent ammo. Hard bolt lift can be caused by high pressure. Try a drop of Break Free CLP on the lugs or some type of bolt grease. Might just need to work the bolt some, wear it in.

 

[Centurian22]

Blanco: what ammo were you using. I also had this problem with my Axis XP .308 when I shot "HSM 168gr HPBT .308 (7.62X51)" ammo. I think it was four rounds out of the first 20 input through the rifle. I have stayed away from 7.62x51 Since and have only used true ".308" and have not had this happen even once since. Not sure if it was ammo or new gun 'virginity' tightness that loosened up. I'm up to a round count of almost 150 now. I always oil my bolt well with either hoppe's oil or wd40 and when it was new spent a good while just working the bolt sitting on the couch. Definitely check the lugs, face, and all bolt surfaces as well as the action where the bolt fits. I found bead blasting media in the threads of my barrel nut so anything's possible.

The trigger does come heavy but is relatively easily (and cheaply) improved. Just search you-tube for savage edge trigger job (axis used to be the edge).

Jimmy; I would be willing to bet that yours was modified as I have never heard of an axis having a 3lb trigger new. But that is where I have settled mine into now as well and I love it. I don't think the stiff bolt lift has improved much so far but probably a little.

One side note when inspecting and 'playing' with the bolt: DO NOT.... I repeat do NOT, move / trip the little knob (sorry I don't know the appropriate name) that releases the firing pin. If this does happen (don't ask me how I know) the bolt will not go back in the gun until you figure out how to manually cock the bolt outside of the gun. You think the bolt throw is stiff try having to do it without the action to grab onto lol.

Hope this helps, I'll be interested to hear what ammo and if the problem solves as easily as mine did. I love my axis and hope you do as well.