7 Rifles I Wouldn't Trust on a Hunt

[@backfire]

Sorry guys. Forgot to mention the heavy rifle is a Bergara Premier Approach. I may put a new stock on it to lose some weight.

[@jsol4477]

I thought it might be, I also have the Approach gen 1 in 6.5cm and it shoots sub half moa with Gold Medal 140/130gr and Prime 130gr ammo. Great for shooting from a blind but at 11lbs it gets heavy stalking your game.

[@todsimpkins8908]

My bergara in 308 is by far the most acurate rifle I own. Love that rifle.

[@stevefisher2121]

13 pounds or not- I’m carrying that Bergara!!!!! Great video!!!!

[@shaneklimes953]

The weight restriction in idaho, if nobody has clarified, is 16lbs with everything scope sling and ammo. If it's over, you can't big game with it. The weight restriction is for big game only

[@Bubben246]

@@shaneklimes953 Do you happen to know the reason why?

[@kristian762]

Im a South African and I live in limpopo near Kruger. I hunt with a suppressor, always. The biggest reason is that we often try take off multiple animals in a day, because I live in a hunting area I just drive where I need to go for day hunts, instead of going on a multi day trip. The suppressed rifle doesn't have the same impact in terms of making other game skittish as an unsuppressed rifle, making it easier to harvest more game in a shorter period of time. That being said, I still like to walk and stalk with my electronic muffs, over years of shooting my hearing has deteriorated, and with the electronic muffs turned up to full volume it amplifies any little noise I make while on a stalk, helping me stay more quiet

[@kristian762]

@CamaroZ28Nut3 man that sucks... that's a lot like what we have to do in order to buy a firearm in South Africa. Each individual firearm that you own has to be licensed, and that license has to be applied for every time, and that process usually takes 6 months. They're also usually double the price here. I bought a .22 lr for my daughter in January, I'm still waiting for feedback on the license application. We're also limited to 4 firearms per person, unless you go through the process to become a dedicated hunter or dedicated sports shooter, and then you still have to motivate for why you need each firearm that you apply for

[@dvrn86]

@CamaroZ28Nut3 Here in the UK it's portrayed as almost rude not to have a sound moderator (or suppressor in US) on your rifle. Has to be added to your firearms license.

[@busansanai]

​@CamaroZ28Nut3 in Canada it's simple, no suppressors no silencers.... doesn't matter which province. #tears

[@tonybrannen1740]

Great reply!

[@chrissmith8041]

I use electronic hearing protection for hunting with my brake. Living in the PROC (Calif) we can't have suppressors and I was amazed at the diff it made when shooting 300 WM with a brake. You can find electronic hearing protection relatively affordably now and we (my hunting buddies and me) can communicate just fine before and after the shot. I make folks with me aware before getting into a shooting situation if I know they don't have hearing protection. Wearing hearing protection is good habit to get into anyway and with the right set, they enhance hearing also. I've just gotten in the habit of making sure I have them with me along with fresh batteries whenever I go hunting. If you make it as habitual as making sure you have ammo, it shouldn't be a problem. Brakes are effective, they just have to be accommodated for.

[@jeffbarrett7497]

Re: Savage Axis I have one and live in Oregon. Very wet here. Yes, the steel is produced at a lower price point and can rust more easily than others. But with a bit of simple care, this is easy to avoid. Odie's Oil on the outside. Tri-Flow on the inside. Good to go. 9 years on mine and still looks great.

[@scottweagel5416]

I have a Savage Axis in stainless because of Oregon weather.

[@danielclark2864]

I also have a Savage Axis with a stainless barrel and never had a problem, but like you said a little bit of care goes a long way.

[@EliCarlton]

I would assume this same advice applies to the axis 2? i was looking at getting one for my first hunting rifle and i would love to know proper maintenance. In arizona there isnt usually much moisture but better safe than sorry

[@scotteger6271]

@@EliCarlton axis 2 just means it’s has the accutrigger there’s nothing different about the way the rifle is made. I’ve found Break Free CLP and Birchwood Casey Barricade both work well at protecting less expensive firearm finishes.

[@ChronicalsofAl]

Looking at a CVS Cascade in 6.5prc (owned or partnered with Savage) because it comes Ceracoated which should be an extra layer against corrosion. I have two blued Savage rifles because they have excellent accuracy for very little $$$ and they've both given me outstanding durability.

[@pwrplnt1975]

For what Christensen charges for a rifle it shouldn't ever be on a list of rifles not to trust!

[@lycheeznuts]

Yup. Same with Fierce. It's an epidemic!

[@stuartmeier240]

Neither should Browning. They are way too proud on price to be what they are.

[@joshuameade8953]

As a former Christianson owner TWICE, there guns are trash

[@ericthered7226]

​@@joshuameade8953 , what I've seen out of them, I'm not impressed at all.

[@montuckyman4982]

They are all cheap production rifles. All copying rem 700 that isn't great. All production rifles are a gamble. Some like Tikka are basically zero risk gamble.

[@kenorrah8072]

I’m personally a fan of the muzzle brake . I understand your reasoning, but where I live suppressors are not an option. The recoil reduction/ spotting of your shot easily outweighs the minor annoyance of wearing hearing protection. I actually think that modern electronic hearing protection is an advantage when hunting if you get the right equipment. Great channel, love the content 👍

[@virtuaguyverify]

Life is better on the other side. Get you a suppressor, you wouldn't want to drive a car without a muffler, would you?

[@highplainsdrifter9631]

​@@virtuaguyverify for pure recoil reduction, a muzzle brake will always be more effective. One device is expelling gas while the other is capturing it. A Magnum rifle that produces heavy recoil is much more enjoyable to shoot with a good muzzle brake.

[@urgamecshk]

@@virtuaguyverify canada...

[@orangerider2827]

​@virtuaguyverify none of my cars or bikes have mufflers. Loud and proud baby. I shoot and it has a loud bang that's fun. If I wanted silence I'd use a bow.

[@brucemorrison8357]

I disagree. My precious hearing is way more important than a little extra push on my shoulder.

[@johnmoore5544]

I got a Christensen ranger and it had same problem. I sent it in and they took care of it. Now it’s my favorite squirrel rifle. Extremely accurate and easy to shoot

[@johnmoore5544]

@@briansmith2616 I also have a Mesa in 300 win mag and a ridgeline fft in 280 AI. Both shoot well under an inch with the right loads. I have had no issues with them at all. Some of my favorite rifles

[@JAlapeck]

Agree, had very poor extraction on mine. Christensen sent a return label and had it repaired and returned ASAP with a free magazine. Runs great now, super accurate rifle. Love it and have restored faith in CA.

[@scotteger6271]

Any idea what’s causing the issues with the Rangers? Like what Christensen is fixing/replacing when they go back? I’m glad they’re making them right but it’s a shame they couldn’t have done that to rifles before they were put on store shelves

[@johnmoore5544]

@@scotteger6271 I believe the issue was to do with the way the extractor held onto the rim but the bolt mechanics would knock the empty off the extractor most of the time and it would stay in the chamber.i believe they fixed the issue with a few replacement parts. I’m guessing since it was one of their early runs those issues have all been sorted out but don’t know that for sure. I have been looking at the 22 mag version and would not hesitate to buy it personally. I own three of their rifles the 22, a 280ai fft Ridgeline, and a 300 win mag Mesa. All shoot fantastic.

[@007JakeD]

AR in .223 is endlessly wonderful for coyote. I was hunting with a 123gr Hornady Black in my 6.5 Grendel. That heavy buggar was launching right through them… I swapped out for my .223 and I was dropping them like flies!

[@brianwilson4861]

I've shot a bunch of coyotes with my AR-15 in 5.56 and I've never had one run off. And I've made some poor shots in my day. I shoot the cheapest 55 gr fmj ammunition too. I've shot javelina, whitetail, mule deer, feral hogs, jack rabbits, foxes, bobcats and never hit one that got away.

[@sherawnkindle2384]

If you have runoffs with 223 you are not hitting vitals

[@joelkoning6190]

Exactly, I've seen coyotes run off after someone shoots them with a 243. A bad shot is a bad shot.

[@AMX86]

I have a 1903 springfield, made in 1924, and is a wonderful deer rifle.

[@fredpierson7488]

I agree, I have 1903 covered to 264 by flaigs. It's a tack driver.

[@cecilguinard7828]

Ditto but my 1903a3 is from 45 and it still makes things dead at any distance.

[@christinamoneyhan5688]

New does not always mean better.

[@OutnBacker]

Agreed. I had one from 1943. Someone did a great job of sporterizing it, except for the stadard mil trigger. I justgot used to it, and it was a tack driver.

[@columbusderseefahrer5682]

if you want to have sub moa you should try the German Manufacturer Heym, those rifles are just perfect.

[@scruffyarms]

Pretty sure you were talking about me with the 6.5 PRC ;) Thanks! Yes, if I had your experience with the Patriot, I would never get another one. You brought up a great point about it being the .308. I have had some others I know have the same problem with the .308 and 30-06. For my 6.5 PRC I did take the Patriot out of the factory stock and I found a small plastic pillar at the end of the stock that rests under the barrel. I can only imagine that you think it is free floated but every time you shoot, you are hitting that plastic pillar. That can't be good. After I put it in an MDT Oryx Chassis, I'm a constant 1/2 MOA with Precision Hunter and Match ammo. So if you have a Mossberg Patriot or Predator, take it out of the stock and check it!

[@bushleague3472]

I had an Axis in .223 for awhile. It was a tack driver, and while I didnt much trust whatever the metal finish was, it seemed to soak up oil. Well oiled it survived a few Canadian winters behind the seat of my service truck without rusting. I've never really bonded with any cheap plastic rifle, so it eventually got sold. I wouldnt take it on a backcountry hunt, but it would for sure survive the average back-40 type deer hunt.

[@billmartin5709]

Krylon or Rust oleum is your friend:) I know some people wont paint a gun. Especially an expensive one. I have a Tikka T3 in 7mm08 which I have had for 15 years give or take. I got out the green and tan and went to town. I also took a 2 inch piece of piccattiny rail and JB welded it on the front left of the forend. I did that so before I got into NV and Thermal for pig hunting I could put a green Streamlight light on it. It works great but I have moved on from it for pigs but do deer hunt with it. If the game warden ever checks it he may question my hunting because it looks like a poacher setup:) After all that my answer to the Axis problem would be paint paint and more paint:)

[@Simon-talks]

Kryon or rustoleum is crap. Don’t listen to that nonsense you will ruin your guns.

[@brandiwynter]

Personally my favorite AR-15 hunting caliber is 6.5 Grendel. When you can find ammo or powder or primers of course, which is almost never. After almost 4 years of this craziness my supply has finally run out so no more Grendel shooting for me 😢. Looks like .223 is the only choice left until manufacturers realize they've saturated the market with it and can finally start making other calibers in bulk. Interesting video. I only have one bolt action rifle (Savage 116 .30-06 Weather Warrior) and it was considered a "cheap" rifle at the time. I wish I had the new style stock on mine but it's still a great rifle and very accurate until the barrel gets too hot. Not really a problem when hunting.

[@kevinbuchanan5501]

If you are looking for powder, try Bruno's out of Phoenix, AZ they have plenty of powder selection at a fair price

[@Rakkasan-vr8xt]

The US and NATO ( the real NWO) is transitioning to the 6.8 SPC, they have already reduced 5.56 production at some plants. This will effectively limit civilian 5.56 within the next few years and will dry up eventually. It’s by design, no accidents when it comes to limiting resources.

[@G19Jeeper]

You are the reason I picked up a Kimber Montana.280AI and I must say, I think it will quickly become a favorite. Topped with a 2-10 VX5HD and Leupokd Backcountry ring mounts to keep weight down. Very nice pointing gun

[@Ben-ry1py]

280AI is a sweet cartridge!

[@frankmccarthy2624]

I’ve got one too…

[@txgunner00]

I have 3 different 280ai rifles. Love the cartridge

[@jayoutdoors1534]

You spend the money but my grandfather's 30-30 will still do better with iron sights.

[@G19Jeeper]

@@jayoutdoors1534 you do you, but you would be severely undergunned for Mule Deer, Pronghorn, Elk etc on an out west hunt. Save that for the PA deer woods.

[@danielrouw2593]

Switch to vmax on the 223. No more runaways. No exit, so it's fur friendly too.

[@michaelfregoe5875]

Absolutely. Vmax and accurate shot placement will prevent runners.

[@danielrouw2593]

@@michaelfregoe5875 found out the work fine after bouncing too. I really need to get an LRF.

[@danlane3944]

For your Mossbergs, try pulling a dollar bill between the barrel and down the length of the stock. If it binds or is tough going, you may need to free-float your barrel. Had that happen with my Remington (.308) and I sanded out the stock a little and it went from all over the paper to an absolute nail driver. Read it in an Outdoor life article circa 1990 and it worked for me. Who knows, they may go from a shelf gun to one that gets used a lot.

[@joelkoning6190]

The Mossbergs don't shoot .308 or 7mm08 very well for some reason. I've seen othe calibers do great. The new 7mm prc in Mossberg is a tack driver .75 and under all day.

[@blightedblue2762]

I enjoyed listening to you on Ron's podcast. You 2 are my favorite hunting KZbinrs. It was like a dream come true.

[@greasemonkey4god]

My kids mossberg patriot youth model in 6.5 cm wouldn’t shoot anything above 130 gn. And now his savage axis in 308 we couldn’t get on paper until I changed the trigger spring. I didn’t realize how detrimental a 6lb trigger would be!!!! Now it’s at 2.5 and shoots just fine.

[@kennethgoin628]

I've got 6 Axis in the collection, solely because I discovered the spring replacement early on, and the accuracy is quite impressive with most. My 6.5 Crd is the worst. I haven't found a factory load yet that it completely agrees with. But everything else dials nicely and gives me great confidence in my shooting. I've doubled on prairie dogs out to 525yds... with an Axis! I expand holes @100yds with my 30-06. I won't brag about the creep, or the Savage "scratch," but the softer spring really yields a great improvement at a low cost. I've also shimmed the trigger to reduce the "scratch." I will say this too, every Axis that I've put an aftermarket stock on, has shot better than the factory stock. The most noticeable was in the 22-250, turning it from discouraging to deadly.

[@Wiekman1]

Great to hear you are coming back to SA Jim, I am sure the group will enjoy it as well. Keep up the great content

[@magaman6353]

CHECK THE SCOPES TOO! Maybe it wasn't the Mossbergs, but the cheap Chinese scopes on them that cost about $20 to make.

[@seanwhite304]

AR15 16" 6ARC with 1-10× is my primary Hunting Rig for East Coast Deer and Hoggs . Q Mega Fix is 300 WSM is what I want to get once it comes out . They are gonna be coming out with Mega and Proper Fix Rifle . Mega is gonna be based off 300WM Size Cartridge and Proper is gonna be based off 375 Size Cartridge..

[@bojiden5042]

I have had great experiences with multiple caliber on the axis ! From 243 to 6.5 creedmoor the scope is the trick ! I use sig buck master scope and get great results even a 300 yard shot on a coyote with 243 Many deer with the 223 but I usually break that out after I killed a buck with my TC 6.5 or 30/30.. I use 223 for doe and small stuff

[@usa-rb5fi]

The bushnell it comes with on the cheaper ones is mediocre, I did notice mine (270) seems to prefer hornady interlocks, it has a vortex diamondback on it now.

[@IE_Tiger]

Great to see the Momentum getting some love. The Elite series is definitely worth the extra money.

[@waynemensen4252]

I only hunt suppressed. You can communicate, which adds to safety as well.👍👍

[@corylyons1107]

You don't have to brag, not everyone lives in a free state. LoL Cheers from Illinois.

[@alexmaurice4274]

@@corylyons1107😢I hate it hear

[@attiliobarcados8178]

i have a remington 30 06 pump action , is the barrel durable ?

[@tylerreed7097]

Thats odd. Ive had great luck with my mossberg patriot- .308. Inch and a half grouping or so but never had issues in 6 years or so.

[@mikeneave18]

As a savage owner, I've owned three, and he's bang on with the rust, I had a older savage edge, and pretty much every time I took it out on a wet day I had to oil it after or it would rust. And yes the scopes are definitely cheap. Rhat being said, it always put the bullet where I wanted it to. So I tolerated it. Side note Yes coyotes are a tough animal to knock down with a small fast caliber, shot placement needs to be 150% accurate

[@bhud1972]

I never heard the brand of the gun at 5:41. Forgive my ignorance but I didn’t recognize that gun.

[@cadenweihe5147]

I think it could be a Bergara b-14, but I could be wrong

[@bhud1972]

@@cadenweihe5147 thanks!! I went back and read the transcript but I couldn’t find where he said it. You’re probably right though.

[@radradR0bot]

He never said the make. I don't know if that was an overnight or if his point was that evening a quality gun isn't fun to hunt with if it's heavy

[@sheethneaffer8614]

Bergara premier. I looked it up

[@backfire]

Sorry. Bergara premier approach.

[@akathecanadian]

As a Canadian, suppressors being prohibited, and owning a Christensen Arms Mesa in 300 win mag, I’d only shoot it with a brake as my set up weighs less than 7.5 lb. So for me, I’m looking for threaded muzzles and or brakes on rifles when I am shopping for another long action

[@BubbaScreaminSizzlers]

Savage axis in 308 here. Got it on sale from a local hardware store for right about $320 out the door, I don't have a problem with rusting because I painted mine with Rust-Oleum camo paint top to bottom. Shoots sub MOA out to 600yd. (the longest range my local club offers) Ps. I haven't made a single shot on any game animal past 300yd

[@Gigachadly]

Just bought one of these two, I paid about 620$ for the savage axis 2 XP in 308, right out the box it has to have been sighted because I was hitting 1 inch groups at 125 yards. Took out a 310 lb black bear start of September with it! No rust issues to speak of but my Guns are always stored in a gun bag indoors so not sure if it really could rust or not.

[@danny920538]

Did he ever name the one at 5:40? Based on the stock I thought it could be a Bergara or Springfield Waypoint.

[@overemployed3499]

I also have the Christensen ranger and had all kinds of issues with feeding and ejecting. The bolt handle was loose and felt like it was going to fall off. I sent it in to them, which was also a pain in the ass they make you ship it back through an FFL, and they fixed it. For a $900 .22lr rifle I expected top quality. I will never buy Christensen arms again.

[@hendrikmoons8218]

Remember the main reason the army went from .30cal to .223 (5.56). This calibre is designed TO WOUND human size targets, not to kill them. It is an (when accepted as main calibre for the common infantrymen) extreem flat shooting, acurate and very recoil managable calibre of wich you could carry 200+ rounds par trooper. It is also a very fast SMALL bullet, making it great for penetration. All of this together will indeed make it prone to OVERPENETRATE the coyote, without killing the animal. If you realy go in that range of caliber, for coyote. I would prefere the 5.7*28mm out of the ps90. (Since the P90 is not alowed.) Good presentation on why these are not tour favorite, learned some things about certain gun-platforms here.

[@baneofbanes]

Yah that’s a myth. 5.7x28 for coyotes is a fucking terrible choice is frankly animal cruelty. It’s not meant for long range shooting, it’s meant for pricing body armor.

[@hendrikmoons8218]

@@baneofbanes 5.7x28 was never meant for long range engagements. Like most submachine gun rounds, after 100meters, most of your shots become wishfull thinking. Between 25m and 75m however... In my opinion, they are better than the 5.56 because this round will overpenetrate it's relative small target. (coyote) The intended use for standerd ammo 5.7x28 Is submachine gun use, in short controled bursts. With a 10.5" barrel AND the infamous 'black-tip' ammo, you can easily smash through bodyarmour grade 3 and take out the first hit target, without overpenetrating the first hit. This with the aim of having almost zero collateral damage. Also, if this round hits a wall, it will not overpenetrate the wall and accidentaly kill/wound someone 150m away,unlike the 5.56 . On the civilian market you have the PS90, with a by law mandatory 16" barrel. So using it for 'pestcontrole' on things like prairiedog/coyote within this intended distances of under 100m is adequate use of weaponsystem+callibre. No laws for either hunting or seasonal pestcontrole broken.

[@baneofbanes]

@@hendrikmoons8218 yah doesn’t change a thing I said. It’s a terrible round for hunting.

[@SteveM0732]

I've hunted in western Oregon where being rained on multiple times a day is normal. Never had a problem with my 1893 Mauser rusting or its 4x Tasco scope fogging up. That Savage would be ruined in no time out here.

[@lrac7751]

Western Washington here, you’re not entirely wrong. My axis looks like crap after 6 seasons, but it’s still a tack driver, you just gotta wipe it down with an oily rag every day

[@arthurparris6223]

I know I am late for the party, but the Ruger American magazine problem can be easily fixed. I bought one 6 months ago and have had no problems at all with it. Love it!!!

[@262fire3]

Brakes do real damage to unprotected ears

[@timbruestle7985]

Your suppressor argument (muzzle brake vs. suppressor) is fair. However, for a fraction of the price of JUST the most inexpensive suppressor (tax stamps and app fees aside), there are a great many fantastic sets of ear muffs out there to be had. As a former musician with huge governmental trust issues, hearing is as important to me as staying out of government paperwork. Even when suppressed, the report of a rifle can still damage hearing, so a good set of muffs isn't a bad idea.

[@ericschultz2730]

On the muzzle break topic. I run a Mossberg Patriot (one of the few ones that can actually group decently) chambered in .450 bushmaster. I put a muzzle break on it to help lighten the recoil as that caliber does tend to beat you around a little bit after a few shots. I've only ever shot it with ear pro on. But this past fall, I was lucky enough to use it to drop a whitetail Doe. Double lung and blew through the arteries at the top of the heart. She ran all of 40 yards and piled up but I couldn't hear her crash because. Well. I couldn't hear shit. It's a loud rifle with the muzzle break on it. Might be looking into getting a suppressor if I can find one that'll fit it instead just because when you are out in the woods and you take a shot. Being able to hear an animal go down is a huge advantage.

[@dionysis84]

Just get the walkers razor and upgrade the muffs to the gel ones so they are comfortable to leave on for a few hours

[@scott6590]

I have the Ruger American ranch in .450 bm. Thought it was loud & obnoxious even with plugs and muffs. When my rugged obsidian .45 cleared jail I put it on the front and it totally changed my opinion of that gun. Tamed the noise and recoil and tightened the groups

[@BackcountryApprentice]

Timestamps: 0:23 - Franchi Momentum 1:56 - Mossberg Patriot 3:25 - Christensen Ranger 5:41 - Bergara? 6:37 - Savage Axis 7:39 - Browning X Bolt Pro 9:07 - AR-15 in .223 10:24 - Muzzlebrakes While I agree with most of this, the Browning shouldn't be on this list. He complained about the trigger, which is easy to lower the weight of, and shooting a 28 Nosler without even a brake? Should've used a handy, short suppressor, and 7mm PRC is better anyway. Great video!

[@DirtyWetTrash]

I got the browning x-bolt mountain pro in 300win with the recoil hog brake and I love it. It’s a tack driver! Trigger is good and very fun to shoot. My 11 y/o neph was having no problem with the recoil. One of my favorite guns. It was expensive but it met all my expectations

[@scotteger6271]

Yea I dunno he complains about the xbolt triggers all the time…I’ve had several and still have a few and all of my triggers have been just fine…some of my smallest groups have been shot with standard composite xbolts

[@kevinpletcher5292]

My worst experience was the 770 Remington 30 odd 6. Won't you fire it? You can't get the bolt back open.

[@jetcox6760]

I've been a gunsmith for the last 7 years. the and the Rem. 770 is the only rifle I've had many of them come in to the shop. Everything else has been one rifle in each Model, 770 didn't get the memo lol

[@tjfishing2714]

I bought a savage axis in stainless in 308 . Shoots factory amo well under sub moa. No issues with rust great for hunting in wet conditions.

[@NOorah-oj8gt]

In Idaho our big game rifles have to be under 16lbs will all attachments. As far as the 223 I love it but not for much beyond small varmints... Bring enough gun:)

[@Drivapete]

Idaho is 15 lbs on the rifle weight. I also have a 1903 Springfield 30-06 that will not accurately shoot any factory ammo I've tried to date, so off to the bench I went. I found a load that will shoot sub minute of angle at 100yds and moa at 200. Maybe that's the answer for the 308's you mentioned. I've also bought several rifles by several manufacturers from ' friends (cheap) who barely speak to me anymore because I got them to 'shoot' by developing a handload. Maybe this is your problem?

[@hardingdies7811]

I just bought a Savage AXIS in 7mm RM - and this was because is was the only reasonably priced LEFT-HAND bolt action in the U.S.! With 15% of the population we only have one company making LH guns, and it took me 6 months to find this one! Couldn't even find a Remington LH action.

[@TheTonygong]

You should send the Christensen in.. their warranty is fantastic and they will make it right 👍

[@shortkid8599]

The problem is the volume of Christensen rifles that need to go back. Their qc is notoriously atrocious. Some people get masterpieces that shoot lights out and have no issues, but if you spend 30 seconds researching Christensen issues, you’ll see countless horror stories.

[@backfire]

Good idea. I should

[@TheTonygong]

I have 2 and they are fantastic. With that, yes they can have issues and I won't deny that. I just know their warranty is great and will work with you to make it right.

[@ratagris21]

100 agree with this they're overpriced for piss poor QC concerns. to send it back to make it right is not good at all.

[@altruisticscoundrel]

Backfire have you tried a barrel tuner by limbsaver ($12) on those inaccurate rifles?

[@28ebdh3udnav]

I would take my Mossberg Patriot on a hunt after I zero in the rifle and keep the range limited to under 250 yards. I've hit a pan sized target at 250 yards in rapid succession.

[@kurtwilliams9114]

Great reviews. I agree with you overall on the 223 BUT what I’ve found with the 223 is the ammo of choice is the world!! Barns TSX 55 grain is the bomb for that rifle!! No coyote run offs!! Love the reviews. Thanks again.

[@michaelfregoe5875]

Absolutely. I was about to write the same thing. Ammo and shot placement will prevent run offs. Several coyote hunters in out area started using a higher power cartridge this season to prevent run offs.... the result was a similar percentage of run offs. Use a quality projectile and hit them in the correct spot and there won't be many, if any runners.

[@Will97675]

I’ve had really good luck with Hornady .223 GMX Full Boar on both coyotes and hogs

[@montuckyman4982]

223 with 77 TMK will quickly kill deer, elk ,bear ,moose out to 400 yards plus. And do so with absolute authority. And EVERYONE SHOOTS LESS RECOIL BETTER! EVERYONE! Bullet matter FAR more than what the headstamps says. 77tmk creates larger permanent wound channels than harder ,tough ,FUDD bullets from much larger cartridges.

[@UltraMagaFan]

I use a good ole Remington Model Seven chambered in 7mm-08. They’ve been making those rifles for 40 years. That’s about as reliable as it gets.

[@REDNECKROOTS]

Yea...

[@amgfan8928]

I got a Franchi Momentum 300 win mag, muzzle brake & Vortex scope in 2020 @ Gamaliel Shooting Supply. I hate synthetic stalks but it felt amazing. The action stood out. Another thing that impressed me was that Franchi listed the factory ammo tested on the chart in the box (Hornady Precision Hunter 200 grain). When I got home, I set up my table (2 metal sawhorses w/ plywood weighted w/ 2 bags quickcrete then used 2 ratchet straps to secure lead sled to table). I fired 3 rds into ground & sat up 1st target while cooling barrel. I cleaned then fired 5 shots, then measured w/ a Mitutoyo caliber). I repeated the process above @ 200yds. Both measured just shy .70 (MOA style of measuring) which blew my mind!!!

[@superdave103harley]

Good observations brother, my only rebuttal is the Savage Axis has phenomenal barrels. So I'm assuming your example is external rust? Not internal bore rust? Unlike a Ruger American Savage Axis barrels do not have heat deflection issues and hold groups consistently. Savage Axis in an MDT chassis holds its own with 2500$ rifles. F-class proven. My advice to any hunter it's to lubricate and manage your rifles. Especially in hunting conditions.

[@ThemantleofElijah]

Hey Backfire, do u have any recommendations on a good 458 win mag? Currently I’m thinking of a cz550 safari. Also potentially an older BSA in 458 price is half the cost for the BSA. Do u frequent Africa Hunting website it’s a forum and very cool.

[@devildog8768]

Mossberg Patriot 30-06 synthetic stock I bought when it first came out in 2015. I adjusted the trigger to 2lbs pull. I got 3/4 in group at 100 yards using the scope that it came with.The ammo was Remington core 185 grain. I paid $350 for it and thought it was a great purchase. Next year I shot a mule deer at 118 yards facing me. I actually shot the top of the heart it dropped where it stood. I never had any problems with accuracy. I even took it to a range that went out to over 1/2 mile. I shot 150 grain and went out to 400 yards. I was shooting 6 inch groups. The only thing I thought was very strange I didn't change the elevation. So I shot at 100 yards left to right dead center but was six inches high with the 150 grain. I haven't been able to figure it out. I probably need to sight it in again using my hunting load before I take it on a hunt. I have seen way too many videos where the rifle doesn't hold a true zero. Did I get lucky, or did Mossberg do something with the later models.

[@newerest1]

What scopes would you not trust?

[@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill]

Easier to answer which ones you would trust, with the 1000s of scope, brands on market. Look for good warranties and track records. Leupold, Burris, Tract, Primary Arms, many seem to like Vortex and Athlon. I'm not impressed with Bushnell products.

[@kesleycottrell1416]

As far as a bolt action rifle the best place to start is a Mauser Model 98 action and build from that. When going this route it can be anything you can dream of. When l added it up for a trigger, barrel, chamber reamer, and stock it's sometimes cheaper to by a new gun. This action was designed to hunt the absolute most dangerous animals-man.

[@steveh4962]

❤ 100% agreement!

[@dozenfaun]

I must agree with you for the savage axis. I own one in 6.5 creedmore with a great scope, a Boyd at-one stock and it group within 2inches at 300yards, it's an inexpensive rifle with no recoil for beginners but damn I brought it at North of 53th parallel as a small lightweight rifle and just from the light snowing from one day the barrel started to rust. None of my other guns ever rusted, even my cheap 22lr that I don't take that much care of

[@Master_Yoda1990]

Yeah that's no good. I bought a Remington 783 in 30-06 a couple years back and it was around the same price as the Savage Axis in .308. I almost bought the Savage, but I'm glad I just stuck with buying the Remington. Never had the rusting issue, accurate gun, and I love the accutrigger it has.

[@samrumade9429]

I be seen 2 at shooting range. One was brand new,guy was trying to sight in. It would not extract shot cartridge reliably. The other one was so bad at 100 yds,could barely get 5 rounds in 6 inch circle.

[@johnshepherd9676]

My big mistake was getting a Winchester Model 70 in .300 win mag. Great Mauser action rifle that just weighted too much with the scope. I much prefer the 30-06 cartridge for big North American game. The original US Army 30-06 specification was for a round that could bring down a cavalry horse at 1000 yards. That is more than enough power for any game I am going to shoot.

[@boywhohasl1vedhascometodie469]

300 Win Mag is good, but sometimes, you just need a little less gun.

[@johnappleseed9290]

Anything above a 30-06.. .300 win mag should exclusively be used for elk or moose or wild boar that are the size of a damn house lol

[@johnshepherd9676]

@@johnappleseed9290 if 30-06 can bring down a horse at 1000 yards it can do an elk at the same range.. Not that I would take 1000 yard shot. I would not feel comfortable beyond 300 and at that range 30-06 or.308 would do the job. I knew someone who bagged an elk with a .243 but that was headshot at 100 yards.

[@johnappleseed9290]

@@johnshepherd9676 I looked up the weight of the Winchester Model 70 and jeez I had no idea they were nearly 9lbs for the 300 win mag. The super grade atleast, I’m in the market for a rifle and that’s one helluva of artillery lol.

[@johnshepherd9676]

@@johnappleseed9290 Try lugging that through the mountains of Colorado. WWII GIs were tough hombres.

[@jamiecarter9357]

Try a little "Red Oil" on your cheap matte blue finish to keep it from rusting. I've been using it for nearly 20 years as a post treatment for parkerizing. I have two Savage precision carbines that were matte blued and just didn't look right in the camo stocks with a matte blue finish so I parkerized them brefore I even fired them. My friend has an Axis with the same matte blue finish. Red oil is an old recipie that my buddy learned when was in the National Guard Marksmanship Training Unit small arms shop several decades ago. It is 3 quarts automatic transmission fluid (red F type), 1 quart 10W or 30W non-detergent motor oil, 1 pint STP oil treatment and 4 ounces Hoppe's #9. The stuff is an amazing lube and an awesome preservative on rough finishes like matte blue or parkerizing. As for the accuracy of the precision carbines or the Savage Axis is amazing, so Red Oil the barrel and let it rain.

[@richardgreen7811]

I have never bought any of these rifles except the AR. I own two M4's, one in .223 Wylde and .50 Beowulf. The 223 will drop a coyote every single time, even with poor shot placement by a neophyte. It hits hard and is extremely accurate. A neck shot on a deer is a guaranteed "drop". It's all in the placement. The Beowulf of course is only for the largest of game (moose, bear, bison, etc.). Surprisingly ... the Beowulf is a "tack-driver" using the 350gr Hornady XTP bullet (reloads) with 100 yrd dope and energy of 2,000 ft. lbs moving at 1,800 fps.

[@ronniem83]

So what was the gun before the savage axis?

[@jarhead13710352]

Idaho Is 16 lbs. My hunting rifle weighs more than yours and I don't mind a heavy long range rifle.

[@CutandShoot5x5]

What make & model was the 13 pounder you didn’t like but was incredibly accurate?!!!!

[@RM-Hunting]

You should still wear earprotection - even with suppressor. Unless you go subsonic, the supersonic crack is still at a sound level, that causes permanent hearing damage.

[@dansherwood9851]

I recently bought a browning mtn pro in 6.5. Though I like the looks of a break the same diameter as the barrel which the recoil hog is NOT, it shoots lights out and is fairly lightweight and I have forced myself to start wearing a walker game ear which helps me hear whispers and definitely helped when sitting next to my grandkids as a spotter when shooting elk.

[@asap_wave7900]

Hey man!would you consider doing a review of the benelli lupo?

[@Lutz101]

The Franchi is a good rifle but lacks iron sights... so if the scope is damaged in the field you are screwed. The Tikka T3X rifles are the best value IMO. They are reliable, smooth to operate, and available with iron sights.

[@paulp1123]

For the mossberg patriot I’ve shot multiple moose with it, but I wouldn’t shoot it over 100 yards and only first two shots are a guaranteed hit, after that I wouldn’t trust the accuracy (this is owning and taking moose over last 4 years)

[@Anthanos89]

Surprised to see Xbolt on here. My brother has a long range setup in 6.5prc and a night setup in 270 Win with thermal scope. Both go awesome

[@hiibyedie2547]

It's because there's no muzzle break, and it's 28 nozler.

[@carterlarson9055]

I just got a Xbolt mountain pro in 6.8 western, haven’t shot it yet…

[@pogeegitz]

I've never shot with a brake, and never will. The other day I was at a public range shooting my 6.5 PRC (26"barrel, no brake) and down the way there was a guy with a 6.5 Creed with a big brake on it. It was insanely loud, and everyone else at the range was commenting on it. The guy pointed out that I was shooting a more powerful cartridge, but everyone agreed his was way louder.

[@sergeantdwz5783]

I hunt with my 270 with a big ass brake. It's not hard to throw on some headphones for a quick shot. If you don't have a half second to pull down headphones over your ears you probably shouldn't be shooting at that animal anyways.

[@Vikingocazar]

@@sergeantdwz5783I’ve been in a ton of still hunting situations in which I had zero time to don earmuffs but had a brilliant shot… I think your statement needs refining.

[@michaelcreech7046]

Check the sling screw in the forend on the mossberg patriot I had one that was rubbing against the barrel and was causing me accuracy issues like you are experiencing

[@michael7046]

My mossberg patriot 243 is a tack driver at 100 yds.great rifle.

[@traviskuntz7503]

Your complaint about the browning trigger is valid, if not cheap ($13) and easy to fix. However, you bought a 28 Nosler, that's 100% on you. Lightweight cannons are great if you're an unabashed masochist.

[@jmmartin7766]

Yeah, I love my Savage Axis II in .30-06-- But I took a page from my "military experience book" and painted mine with Krylon (cheap gun, who cares right?). So rust on the outside hasn't been a problem. But I did inspect it one day, about a month after my only range session with it, only to find the beginnings of rust on the bolt face... Cleaned it thoroughly, changed solvent & oil (I now use PLC to clean and synthetic 10w30 for "high mileage engines" as lube), made sure I had plenty of desiccant around it, and the problem hasn't returned. Great gun for what I paid ($350 with scope), but if I were to go hunting with it, I'd definitely upgrade the scope

[@paulgoyette8222]

Got my first hog with my Axis ll 7mm-08 this year…the Weaver scope is mediocre at best for sure… I will be getting a new one as well…

[@jmmartin7766]

@@paulgoyette8222 Mine was bought as "anti-ANTIFA medicine," if they were ever stupid enough to try their crap in my city. So pigs would be a good logical hunting choice, as well lol! (I actually am looking forward to hunting pigs with it in the near future...)

[@MorganMcGinnis]

ive got the Axis II in 30-06 in the MDT Chassis .. Love it! going out for Hogs with my Dad in a Month, first time with him - long over due, im 42 haha

[@tylervolentine1286]

As far as hearing protection goes, get a pair of Axil earbuds... they enhance sounds under 70 DB and don't let sounds spike above 85 DB. FANTASTIC for hunting with muzzle brakes (which are my favorite) and just hunting in general... even suppressors will ring my ears a lil

[@anthonysharpfish9108]

Had my 270win mossberg patriot in mule deer country 250+yds and prairie dog towns with no problems

[@chriswilson2880]

I am a fan of a muzzle break. Reducing recoil matters for follow up shots. Most hunting situations you are only shooting a few rounds and you are directly behind the angled blast. Your friends can cover their ears.

[@bob49679]

An it a lot cheaper

[@lancelamoon6743]

I find they don’t do anything. I took it off my 450 Bushmaster and it feels the same but actually groups better without it.

[@bob49679]

Then why is on the 50 BMG?

[@elkhuntr2816]

Totally agree with not hunting with a muzzle brake. I have permanent hearing loss from shooting shotguns when I was younger without any hearing protection. Yeah, I know, dumb. I had a muzzle brake on a 7mm rem mag and when hunting, many times there is no time to put hearing protection on when a animal presents a quick shot. Shooting without hearing protection and with a muzzle brake causes serious damage and permanent ringing in the ears. I had my muzzle brake literally cut off the barrel (it was integrated in the barrel) so I could hunt with it. Even just foam ear plugs will lead to hearing loss with muzzle brakes. Muzzle brakes really require doubling up on the hearing protection with both foam and muffs.

[@sanguinembwun6475]

The rust on the axis is probably just due to the barrel being high carbon steel. Wipe it off when it gets wet and oil it and it should be fine. As for 223 being small for deer my grandfather used to hunt deer with a 22lr back in the day. It only took one shot if you put it where it belongs. Of course he was putting meat on the table not antlers on the wall so there was no need for huge optics, super expensive guns, and all the other accessories that go along with modern hunting!

[@USAMYHOMESWEETHOME]

I have a Remington 770, chambered 30.06, the bolt slide is horrible, so i polished the bolt, it helped some, but i have had great luck with my deer takedowns. In Arizona mule deer hunt is a draw, and when i have had a tag, I have been able to take home a young buck and a nice big 10 point deer. Its at 6 deers in 6 years of hunting. Im looking into a newer 30.06 rifle, but like the old saying says, if it aint broken, why mess with it and it has maintained zeros in all the years i have had it, with two different scopes, i got one with morere zoom in power.

[@wyattparbst1613]

BTW on my dad's deer hunt his Christianson arms had way to manny issues with the a bolt that was getting loose all the time we literally had to titen this bold multiple times on the hunt

[@kordi7888]

Like the content man, you deserve alot more subs. Enjoy Africa and much luck

[@scottysvids1]

I have 3 savage axis that I hunt with. They are exposed to snow, rain, anything mother nature can throw at me. I have never had an issue with rust. And they may go a week without cleaning. Just telling you my experience.

[@LGFoutdoors]

I’ve had 3 patriots. I sold them all. I don’t think they make a good one lol

[@larryw5429]

When I see bolt action rifles that are not accurate, most of the time the barrel is not free floated and every time it fires it wiggles then sticks then wiggles the other way and sticks. They never go back to neutral barrel position!

[@sambarr7826]

I've never seen a review of the Tikka hunting rifles by any Nth American channel. I use a stainless synthetic in .270 on Sambar deer here in Australia. Only been hunting for about about 5-6 years and I don't get out often enough. But that things lands right on point every time. Love to hear thoughts from Tikka owners in the U.S.

[@aldocella4947]

Tikka is the only real choice for lefties. Excellent build quality but if you put in a lot of range time you will want to upgrade to an aftermarket stock, especially in heavier calibers.

[@sambarr7826]

@@aldocella4947 True. I'm a lefty, (not one THOSE lefties let me be clear!) What is the issue with original stock? Had no issues so far. And if that day comes, what aftermarket brands would you suggest? Cheers

[@aldocella4947]

@@sambarr7826 IMO the issues were twofold: 1). Excessive felt recoil in the larger calibers, and 2) had to raise my cheek off the comb to align with the scope (and I use low mounts). I attribute this to the stocks geometry and light weight. For firing a few shots a year hunting that 's no big deal, but I do a lot of bench shooting so I replaced it with a Boyds laminate w/Limbsaver pad and it's like a whole new rifle. Groups got smaller too!

[@sambarr7826]

@@aldocella4947 Thanks for the feedback. Sounds like I won't have much to worry about. 3 shots maximum at a target 100-200 yards depending on where I'm hunting the day before each hunt . I take about 10 deer per year which costs me no more than 12 shots. Plus I'm only 5' 6" and about 140. Y'all should consider coming to Victoria Australia for a crack at these ghosts of the bush! There's more than one million of them out there, no season, no bag limit. But they will hone your skills and really make you think. Don't worry about our gun laws, as long as your not trying to bring in a semi auto, and your paperwork is in order, it's all good! Winter is the best time so snakes aren't a concern. Seriously guys, KZbin Australian Sambar deer hunting! They are a very worthy target! Peace

[@michaelchaoticreason5059]

Thanks for sharing about your experience. I really appreciate it. Just a note, I use a blast forwarding device on my hunting ar rifle. Can't afford a suppressor yet! ;)

[@geeccc5674]

have you ever used the Kifaru gun bearer? It’s not perfect but it’s a break through piece of equipment for when you have to cover some ground, especially with a heavy rifle.

[@mr.mr.3301]

Stainless or cerakote for hunting rifles.

[@radradR0bot]

I prefer rustoleum

[@Central-Scrutinizer]

There is a reason the 24" 7.25 lb sporter with a standard weight barrel is the standard. It's the sweet spot between consistent group sizes, enough heft for stability but not too heavy at 8-8.5 lbs scoped, yet nimble enough to carry around without undue strain. Recoil with standard cartridges is manageable, even off the bench. Barrel is long enough to keep the muzzle blast out of your face and ears. Even the 6.75 lb featherweights give up some of these attributes with skinnier barrels.

[@YOUneedJESUS1]

When is the update on the MOSSBERG PATRIOT!! ITS BEEN 1 YEAR! No video from gunsmith fixing it. Just a repeat of a plastic stock one. Is the head space out???? Are the lands not deep enough? Need a faster twist barrel maybe a 9:1 or 8:1?

[@backfire]

Sorry, the reason I haven't done a follow-up is because KZbin doesn't allow me to show any modified guns anymore. I'm going to be doing content about it on Backfire Plus. Sorry, I would LOVE to do it on KZbin, but they won't let me.

[@sethstrickland3739]

You often forget that generally people can’t afford things such as suppressors and a reliable gun with a decent optic sure some can but the average hunter doesn’t have the financial resources to have those options of adding a suppressor like you preach for hearing protection or go out and just put a 100 rounds of fairly expensive ammo through a gun on a Saturday to just “get ready for hunting season” I know it’s easy to nit pick on the internet but sometimes think of us average guys out here

[@ormatude85]

The .223 I found is extremely good when hunting something like coyote, but other than that it didn't have much other use other than home defense.

[@samuelbaggett5002]

Great points, explanations, and insights! I love muzzle brakes, but after a few hunts with my favorite muzzle brake, I certainly understand your reasoning. More reasoning now for me to bite the bullet purchasing a suppressor. Thanks for sharing!

[@Rockjock007]

Muzzle breaks are great and you always wear hearing pro regardless. Odd how you have sooo much invested in your guns and so little in hearing pro. Get a good set of muffs that amplify and cut out the report of the rifle you will never go back. 223 on deer no problem because it is all about shot placement. A good 223 will not leave you wanting. Coyote, kai ow tee, hunting with a 223 is also great, also shot placement is the key and a good sub MOA rifle is key like a Tikka and you are golden.

[@jeffreylocke8808]

All you need for the Browning 28 Nosler is a gunsmith trigger job and a refrigerator box flattened out on the ground to lay on and keep the muzzle blast from blowing up dust.

[@nunyabizniz50]

God I regret buying the most is a savage 110 hog hunter and 350. Legend, it doesn’t feed rod and it doesn’t extract half the time I haven’t even gotten to shoot it yet and I’ve yet to may able to make it through an entire magazine without it jamming.

[@chadperry4021]

I know it’s not this channels style, but could we get a video or two with the 7 prc just ripping up jugs and watermelons. You could even make it educational by comparing the eldx to the cx. Thanks love the channel.

[@rayjackson1952]

Love the Christus Statue in the background.

[@kevindressner2647]

I have a Mossberg Patriot .308 and I have had the same issues. This helped me feel less crazy!