Understanding the Savage Axis Rifle
The Savage Axis rifle has carved a significant niche in the hunting and shooting communities. Known for its affordability, accuracy, and straightforward design, it’s a popular choice for both seasoned hunters and those new to the sport. But to truly unlock the potential of this rifle, a quality scope mount is paramount. A well-chosen scope mount is far more than just a connector; it’s the critical link between your rifle, your optics, and ultimately, your success in the field. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of **scope mounts for Savage Axis** rifles, providing you with the knowledge to select the perfect mount for your specific needs.
Why is a good scope mount so important? A poorly chosen mount can lead to a host of problems, from inconsistent accuracy and frustrating zeroing issues to the potential for damage to your scope. A mount must provide a stable and secure platform, capable of withstanding the recoil generated by the rifle without shifting or distorting. It must also properly align the scope with the bore, allowing for accurate shots at varying distances. Selecting the right **scope mounts for Savage Axis** ensures that you are maximizing the rifle’s inherent accuracy.
The Savage Axis is designed with simplicity in mind, often featuring pre-drilled and tapped holes on the receiver for mounting. This design simplifies the process of adding optics but requires careful consideration of the type of mount that you choose. The goal is to create a robust and reliable system.
Understanding the Savage Axis
Before selecting any mount, understanding the specific design of the Savage Axis is essential. This rifle typically features a receiver designed to accommodate various scope mounting options. Familiarity with the rifle’s design helps narrow your choices and ensures compatibility.
The Savage Axis is offered in a wide array of calibers, ranging from the popular .223 Remington and .308 Winchester to more specialized rounds for long-range shooting and hunting. The recoil generated by these different calibers will influence the demands placed on the scope mount. A mount designed for a .223 may not be robust enough for a heavier caliber like .30-06.
The success of mounting a scope to your Savage Axis is directly tied to the choice you make. The proper choice leads to more successful hunts or greater accuracy at the range.
Exploring the Different Types of Scope Mounts
The market offers a diverse selection of **scope mounts for Savage Axis** rifles. Each type possesses its own advantages and disadvantages, making the selection process a matter of understanding your specific requirements and shooting style.
Picatinny Rails
Picatinny rails, often referred to as MIL-STD-1913 rails, are a highly standardized and versatile mounting solution. They feature a series of evenly spaced slots, allowing for easy attachment of various accessories, including scopes, red dots, and other optics.
Advantages of Picatinny rails are numerous. Their standardized design ensures compatibility with a wide range of accessories. They are typically very robust, capable of withstanding significant recoil. Their versatility allows for various configurations.
For the Savage Axis, you can find Picatinny rails that mount directly to the existing holes on the receiver. These provide a solid and dependable foundation for your scope. Look for rails made from high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum or steel for enhanced durability.
Weaver Bases
Weaver bases represent another popular mounting option. They predate Picatinny rails, and while they lack the standardized slot spacing of Picatinny, they still offer a reliable and affordable method of mounting scopes.
The key benefit of Weaver bases is that they’re often lighter and less bulky than Picatinny rails. They can also be slightly less expensive.
For the Savage Axis, Weaver bases are available in both two-piece and one-piece configurations. When selecting Weaver bases, ensure they are compatible with the specific spacing on your Axis rifle. Carefully check the base dimensions to guarantee a proper fit.
One-Piece Mounts
One-piece scope mounts represent a premium solution, often favored for their inherent stability and robustness. They combine the base and rings into a single unit, which minimizes the potential for movement and ensures optimal alignment between the scope and the bore.
Advantages include increased rigidity and precision. They’re excellent for heavier scopes or high-recoil calibers. One-piece mounts are a top choice for hunters and shooters who prioritize extreme reliability.
When choosing a one-piece mount for your Savage Axis, pay close attention to the height. You will want to ensure you have enough clearance between the scope and the barrel, and you have comfortable access to the bolt. Look for models constructed from high-grade materials to guarantee long-term durability.
Two-Piece Mounts
Two-piece scope mounts offer an alternative design, often preferred for their flexibility in scope positioning and lightweight construction. They consist of two individual bases that attach to the receiver and separate rings that secure the scope.
The advantages of two-piece mounts include allowing flexibility in mounting the scope, as the rings and bases can be moved to optimize the eye relief and the shooter’s head position. They’re generally lighter than one-piece mounts, which may be an advantage for hunters or shooters who prioritize weight savings.
For the Savage Axis, two-piece mounts offer an excellent option if you need to adjust the scope position to achieve the perfect eye relief. Carefully consider the ring height and the diameter of your scope’s tube to ensure proper fit.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Scope Mounts
The ideal **scope mounts for Savage Axis** aren’t simply about choosing a type; many factors come into play. Careful consideration of these elements will lead to a more effective and reliable setup.
Material
The material used in the scope mount significantly impacts its durability, weight, and overall performance. Common materials include aluminum and steel.
Aluminum offers a balance of weight and affordability. Aircraft-grade aluminum is robust and can handle the recoil of most calibers.
Steel is a superior material in terms of strength and durability. It is often favored for heavier scopes and high-recoil cartridges, providing maximum stability.
The material chosen affects the overall price. However, the material must support the scope and the rifle’s caliber.
Height
Proper scope height is essential for achieving a comfortable cheek weld and ensuring optimal accuracy. The height determines how high the scope sits above the barrel, which affects how your eye aligns with the optic.
If the scope sits too low, your cheek may not properly contact the stock, which makes it harder to achieve consistent eye alignment. If it sits too high, you may feel the strain of trying to get your eye to line up with the scope.
The appropriate scope height varies based on your stock design and the scope’s objective lens diameter. Most mounts list the height, which will help determine how much clearance is needed.
Compatibility
Ensuring compatibility between the scope mount, your scope, and the Savage Axis rifle is critical.
Confirm the tube diameter of your scope and choose rings that accommodate that diameter. Ensure that the chosen mount fits the receiver of your specific Axis model. Verify the mounting hole spacing before purchasing.
Durability and Quality
Investing in a high-quality scope mount is crucial for long-term performance and reliability.
Look for mounts made from high-grade materials, featuring precise manufacturing and robust construction. Examine the manufacturer’s reputation and read reviews from other shooters to assess the mount’s durability.
Ease of Installation
Consider the installation process when selecting a **scope mounts for Savage Axis**.
Opt for mounts that provide clear and easy-to-follow instructions. Some mounts require specialized tools or a certain level of experience for proper installation.
Budget
The price of scope mounts varies significantly depending on the type, material, and features.
Establish a budget that aligns with your needs and preferences. Balance your desire for quality with your financial limitations. Be wary of extremely inexpensive mounts, as they may compromise durability or reliability.
Installation Guide (Brief Overview)
The installation of scope mounts generally involves these steps:
Preparation: Gather the necessary tools (Allen wrenches, torque wrench, level).
Base Mounting: Attach the bases to the receiver, ensuring they are properly aligned.
Ring Mounting: Attach the rings to the bases, paying attention to the direction of the rings, which must match the scope’s tube diameter.
Scope Placement: Place the scope in the rings, ensuring proper eye relief.
Leveling: Level the scope with the rifle.
Torqueing: Tighten the rings to the recommended torque specifications.
Recommendations & Top Picks
Selecting the ideal **scope mounts for Savage Axis** is a personal choice, but here are some recommended options:
For Picatinny Rails: Consider a solid, one-piece Picatinny rail from a reputable manufacturer like Weaver or EGW.
For Weaver Bases: Leupold and Warne offer excellent Weaver base options.
For One-Piece Mounts: Seek out quality one-piece mounts by Vortex, Burris, or Nightforce, for a robust and reliable setup.
For Two-Piece Mounts: Talley and DNZ Products are often recommended for their quality and reliability.
Remember, the ideal choice depends on your scope, caliber, and shooting preferences.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scope mount is an essential step in optimizing the performance of your Savage Axis rifle. By understanding the different types of mounts, considering key factors like material, height, and compatibility, and selecting a mount based on your specific needs, you can create a rifle setup that delivers consistent accuracy and confidence in the field or at the range. Remember to take your time, research your options, and prioritize quality and reliability. With the proper choice, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the full potential of your Savage Axis.
Final Thought
The perfect choice of **scope mounts for Savage Axis** is a crucial decision. Good hunting and shooting!
