Savage Axis .22-250 accuracy

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[@rbm6184]

Yes nickel cases are reloadable and I actually like them better than brass. Expect the barrel to get hot but let it cool between shots. If its too hot to the touch then you better let it cool down or you will burn the barrel out. If you have to shoot a five shot group while hunting or whatever than that is not going to hurt it but if you keep shooting it when its too hot to the touch then you run into trouble. I have the same rifle but I put a Boyds laminated CNC machined wood stock (FT Thumbhole) on mine. The flexible plastic stock is this rifle's biggest problem for accuracy. I also did a DIY trigger job on it and put a Sharp Shooter Supply extractor/ejector kit on the bolt. It shoots pretty awesome well under an inch at 100. I run Federal Power Shok 55gr. SP in mine for factory ammo. I duplicate that load for my reloads. Factory ammo should be only a little more per round than .223. If its not then go somewhere else for your .22-250 ammo. Premium ammo will be more. I use a Benchmaster rifle rest. benchmasterusa.com/product/benchmaster-cadillac/

[@MusicMinisterJP7]

Was about 20 yrs ago when I first took interest in this particular caliber, I heard about the super-heat issue, which would result in a warped barrel, thereby throwing off the aim trajectory. So it was with that concern that buying this caliber rifle with the Heavy barrel is the better choice, which resists the warpage due to heat buildup. Also, it would help if your in a cold environment. In my area (NY), generally about now March April is a good time. I wanted this rifle by Remington as is my collection, but I had to settle for the Savage Axis due to price, and bcuz my brother swears by Savage arms..lol. I also reload my ammo, so I'll be keeping the brass and purchase the 22-250 dies. Bought it two days ago, hope I'm not disappointed. Perhaps in the future I may seek to replace this reg barrel for the heavy one.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Thanks for the info!

[@conebread711]

Put pressure on the sliding tang with you thumb as you are pulling the trigger and you will tighten your group. The problem, I discovered by accident, is that the stock is so flimsy you are putting torque on the action when you pull on the trigger. Once the trigger snaps the torque is released and the action moves back. You can easily verify this by dry firing the gun. Put your cross hairs on a target far off, about 500 yards, then watch the cross hairs move as you start to pull the trigger. Once the trigger snaps you will see the cross hairs move back. Now, dry fire it again with your thumb firmly on the tang. The cross hairs will stay where you put them. Good luck!

[@JimPepperTactical]

Anthony Pry sorry, I don't quite understand what you mean. What tang? I'm curious now!

[@dgunnut6550]

Thanks for the shout out brother! I'm in Wisconsin. Only about an hour from Dubuque, IA. Yep, you can reload the nickel cases. As for a rest I use a Caldwell front rest and small rear bag. Still looking at other options. Good shooting! A little handloading and you'll be under an inch easy.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Dgunnut I'm in dead central Iowa so you're not too far. Thanks for the info!

[@WestDesertShooter]

Hey man many thanks for the mention! Thanks to Dgunnut as well! I have a few videos where I have reloaded nickel cases they look good loaded with ballistic tip rounds! I struggle with barrel heat as well with the tikka. You can open the bolt and stand the rifle vertical and it will cool off just a bit faster also shade really helps. I use a bipod and a nylon hammock for the rear. A bipod and a sandbag or sock with beans works great. The rear bag is a huge part of settling down the gun. Thanks again man your videos are great and full of good info keep it up!

[@dandrain4016]

Sinclair makes excellent benchrest quality rifle rests

[@texassportsman5880]

I have a Remington 700 SPS heavy 26" barrel that groups at less than MOA at 175 yards. The heavy barrel prevents heat build up and barrel warpage. Yes the barrel will warp very slightly but enough to group poorly. That .22-250 exceeds 3000 fps at the muzzle and will heat up a barrel very quickly.

[@slkknifelover]

All this ammo he shows in 2021 would cost more than the gun😂🤣😅

[@garylaubscher4487]

I have exactly the same rifle - use it for predator control in Africa, it has the same scope also, yes i the barrel does get hot, go home loads with development i now get bullets touching at 100 yards, that is a good accurate rifle when you load for it. love my rifle.

[@TennesseeMatt]

Thanks for the shoutout man! And nice rifle!

[@JimPepperTactical]

TennesseeMatt Thanks for watching!

[@bowhunt9968]

For best groups off the bench.....I recommend a quality set of bags. I like the Dog-gone-good front bag. Google it and give him a call. Great guy to deal with! Also like the Protektor rabbit ears rear bag. That rifle is capable of better accuracy. That sporter barrel in that chambering will not hold up to 5 shot groups. If it is a hunting rifle, then you should only be concerned with the first "cold bore" shot anyway. I have the XPII, with the Accutrigger, in 243 win and it has produced sub 1/2" 300 yard groups with my handloads (3 shot groups)

[@JimPepperTactical]

Nice!

[@garrytalley8009]

For your information Nichol plated brass is reloadable, you don't need to lube to run through dies. The plating however may peel when you have to trim the cases. Also that skinny barrel needs to stay cool if you want tight groups. Once it heats up your group will get larger. Also a 22-250 with high velocity loads will get hotter sooner than other calibers. You will reduce barrel life if you don't let barrel cool enough as well. I don't think you know enough about what you are shooting to even put out a video, but I will give you credit for trying. BTW you don't have good groups with that caliber until you are half inch or under at 100 yards. I have purchased a Savage Axis II 22-250 with a heavy barrel. I wouldn't want to own a 22-250 with a light barrel they run too hot unless you are not going to fire very many shots one after another.

[@rbm6184]

Come on, guy. The standard Axis is a $269 rifle. You expect sub MOA? Get real. As a factory rifle its hunter accurate but precision bench shooting its not. Yes the barrel needs to cool between shots especially a .22-250. For precision bench shooting I will take my Remington 700 BDL .222. That was a $700 rifle back in the 90s.

[@appalachianamerican7171]

I own one in heavy barrel, sub moa easy. It's still a Savage. And the heavy barrel one come from factory at about 18 oz triggers. Axis ll XP bone stock. So there u go it's real. (The centerfire AccuTrigger has a minimum trigger pull of approximately 2.5 to 3.25 pounds on sporter barrels, 1.5 to 2.25 pounds on varmint and heavy barrels. Selected Target Models may be equipped with an 8 to 10 ounce trigger. The rimfire firearms are now available with an AccuTrigger that is adjustable down to approximately 2.5 pounds.) From Savage site. Mine is 18

[@conebread711]

The tang is what the safety slides on. When you pull on the trigger you will move the action and the scope, which you can easily see while looking through the scope because the crosshairs move. If you put firm pressure on the tang pulling on the trigger will not move the crosshairs on the scope. Another way to keep the crosshairs from moving because of pulling the trigger is to place you thumb behind the trigger guard and finger on the trigger. Essentially you will be pinching the rear of the trigger guard and the trigger together. This actually works better if you are shooting off of a bench, but it is awkward to do this while hunting. Good luck.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Anthony Pry Very interesting, I will have to try it all out. Thanks!!!

[@JamieMG]

Thanks for sharing the video. I’m considering another Axis and 22/250 is what I’m thinking. I have .223, 308 and 25-06 Axis’s and came across a a barrelled action with the Accutrigger and just so happen to have an SA Axis stock as well as tons of brass and RCBS dies. It’s crazy how these shoot so accurate.

[@bobbymiller5297]

I want a 223 affordable bolt action for plinking etc. Would you recommend axis or ruger american?

[@pwmiller5759]

I have one just like it.. I installed an mcarbo trigger kit that resulted in a 2.5 lb trigger pull!! Tack driver!

[@ethanamldon5657]

Here's a tip 3 shots then cool for best groups

[@richhunter515]

Nickel plated is absolutely reloadable! Keep them!

[@JimPepperTactical]

Thanks!

[@HoustonR6ryda]

I pulled off a 130 yard upper neck shot on a doe with the exact set-up.I did a youtube trigger job. It's crazy accurate. Hard to beat it for the price.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Thanks for the report!

[@Me2Lancer]

You mentioned a trigger mode. The Savage AXIS Pro Trigger Kit from M Carbo decreases an average 6 lb trigger pull to 3.5 lbs. Quick and easy to install. I've used it on 2, Savage Axis rifles. Letting the barrel cool will be your friend in terms of accuracy.

[@crazyfast15]

How did u like the kit? I just ordered one

[@Me2Lancer]

@@crazyfast15 I have it on 2 Savage Axis rifles and like the M Carbo very much.

[@damianmoskos2299]

Have the same 22-250 axis trigger is really heavy replaced with timney drop in trigger went from five plus pounds down to a crisp 2 lb can go down to 1.5 lbs. Good Cooper residue clean getting inch groups or less at 100m. like to to use a bipod but I have be careful About stock flex can b used on axis have had good success. Good scope helps wanted to trade it but since went to trouble of new trigger that is adjustable have wanted to keep rifle it's actually lovely to shoot with the timney trigger so crisp.

[@bradlehman1537]

Harrison bipods or something close, and a sandbag in the rear. \

[@howardmoore939]

I did notice that the Federal Premiums were the Sierra Game King BTHP. I think that is the only boat tail hollow point bullet you shot. That gun might really like boat tail rounds. They are known to be more accurate rounds in a lot of cases. Good review man.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Howard Moore thanks!

[@angelaprater2679]

John here try 55gr bullets and a good rest check trigger pull 3lb pull is best for hunting also 50 gr comes out hot faster bullet and new gun clean barrel ever 10 shots breaking it in. Vortex real good scope stay with it thanks for video.

[@mygunsweetness]

Front and back bag to hold it, from the bench

[@andrewhart3882]

I love mine. I reload a 55 Simi boat tail vmax. I'm throwing them approx 4100fps and have made a shot at 436yards with the stock Bushnell. I now have a leupold on it. I call it the angle of death. It's my go to to fill the freezer late winter.

[@anthonymagill3714]

Put a Boyd's stock on load PPU brass with 52 gr A-max over CFE223. 37.5gr 10,000ths of lans cci200. Primers . I have shot a 4 shot group at 100 yds 9.5 mm center to center and shot a fox at 501 yds . plus fit a timmey trigger

[@samiguess5689]

I don't know if you'll see this cause it's been 2 years since this comment. However, I'm about to buy a Savage axis 2 with a Boyds at-one stock in 22-250. Would you have any recommendations for it? It doesn't have glass, and I'll need to buy some ammo. I'd like to get into reloading but it seems a little pricy. If you see this then thanks.

[@illuminatedcrosshairs7865]

Do a trigger job to bring it down to 2 1/2- 3 pounds, insert a thin washer on the trigger pin to eliminate trigger wooble , and you have a very accurate cheap bolt gun.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Lee Clements Already done 👍🏻

[@illuminatedcrosshairs7865]

Jim Pepper ok , great 👍! These small modifications make the Axis; chambered in 22-250 a freaking tack driver. I put a 24x scope and a Caldwell bi pod on mine. Love this girl! For some reason mine shoots the best groups with Hornady V-Max 55gr At 300-400 yrds I I can murder a golf ball!

[@DPIDDY69]

My .223 axis with accutrigger is an easy .5-1.0 moa gun. A decent trigger can make all the difference on a cheap gun.

[@rbm6184]

Lee Clements I have two Axis rifles in both .22-250 and .223. I did mods to both triggers. I put a Boyds stock on both since the factory plastic stocks had way too much flex in them and bullet groups were not good enough for me. Hunter accurate rifles right out of the box but the stock flex prevents better groups even though the plastic stock is factory pillar bedded. The .22-250 with the Boyds stock now shoots awesome. I tried to stay with the plastic factory stock on the .223 by aluminum bracing the fore stock and epoxy bedding the action area and there was improvement but not enough so I put a Boyds stock on that one also. The CNC machined wood stock has greatly improved my groups. I was able to shoot a one inch four shot group at 100 yards with factory Winchester Super X 55 gr. SP that surprised me. I know hand loads will be just as good if not better. I knew these rifles were capable of better than what I was getting. Just wish the Axis rifles had hinged floor plate internal mags rather than box mags. Box mags limit cartridge length to the size of the box and this might limit being able to set bullets to the lands for maximum accuracy. Might have a gunsmith take a look at seeing if installing an internal mag is feasible. I suggest a Benchmaster rifle rest. They call it the Cadillac. This is what I use. Very stable with 9 lb. weight and adjustable. I still have not found my original Benchmaster so I got another one. benchmasterusa.com/benchmaster-cadillac My Axis .223 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHqrp2t3opZrfLc

[@illuminatedcrosshairs7865]

RB M that’s awesome! I too bought a Boyd’s stock for my axis22-250 and the accuracy is notably better. On a bench rest I’m getting 1/2 “ groups at 200 yds + with Hornady v-max 55 gr and superformance 50 gr v max . Still can’t believe how accurate this $280 gun is! I guess Savage really does mean it’s the definition of accuracy no matter what the cost! The Caldwell bipod and the (cheap as hell FSI sniper 24 power scope) makes me feel like I’m a marksman even though I’m not! But for $550 total cost I am super impressed with this gun, As always Savage delivers accuracy with out breaking the bank! Good shooting and be safe!

[@ch34pskate16]

Hey man. You can reload nickel plated brass but my buddies have had issues. Not sure if the plating affects the brass some how (hardening it). Good vid thnx

[@MusicMinisterJP7]

Not worth the trouble, best stick to reg brass. After all, you're not entering it into a beauty contest! lol.

[@texasstrong7115]

Nice video, just bought the same gun Saturday. Any suggestions on scopes?

[@JimPepperTactical]

Texas Strong Man that's a loaded question. I suggest one with plenty of magnification and a mil-dot reticle, although this round shoots flat enough holding over isn't a huge issue unless you're shooting really far. What's your budget?

[@delbertwillie6679]

How much is it, 22-250 rifle

[@Me2Lancer]

Just a suggestion. The 22-250 is a great round. Don't complain about accuracy when you don't have a good rest to stabilize your rifle.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Was I really complaining? lol i agree

[@mtntoughoutdoors5882]

Is it good for coyotes I've been looking at it for a while.

[@JimPepperTactical]

That's the main reason I bought it! Thanks for watching!

[@montanasecrist5259]

I have used a 22-250 since i was about 10 and im 18 now . people can say all they want but they are very good for coyote or anything like that I have killed alot of deer with mine and they usually run about 50 yards or less . I reload all of my ammo and have 1/4 moa at 100

[@jeff0nyschuk670]

I've got the Savage 110m 22-250,,1 inch groups at a 100 yards,,Way better than the Ruger American 22-250 I had,

[@bradlehman1537]

Yep it's reloadable.

[@travisrushton7966]

Browning Nickel Yes - Reloadable - I actually like the Nickel finish but it's getting harder to find without actually buying premium rounds. As for a rest, pick up a Caldwell Lead Sled (www.ebay.com/itm/Caldwell-Lead-Sled-Plus-Recoil-Reducing-Rifle-Adjustable-Shooting-Rest-820300/282770471533?epid=2254451187&hash=item41d66efa6d:g:30gAAOSw-olZ94k3) They make cheaper models as well but this one will do fine for you with no bags of lead or other weights. I would say the .22-250 is a little fast for that barrel if you're picking up Mirage that quickly. Lastly, the AccuTrigger on the Axis II XP and their other rifle lines is phenomenal. If you get a chance, check out their international Trophy Predator Hunter Combo. ( www.savagearms.com/firearms/model/11InternationalTrophyPredatorHunter ) REM7600

[@JimPepperTactical]

Thanks a lot!

[@jamesstratton4488]

Most accurate rifle I’ve ever shot! Zeroed at 300.

[@isaiahherrera1320]

Is this the synthetic stock version? And does it like feel different from other guns if it is synthetic or like is it lighter/feel or less durable and stuff like that. Because on a website I've seen 2 different versions, there was synthetic and the more expensive one doesn't say synthetic. Thanks

[@JimPepperTactical]

Isaiah Herrera sorry for the late response as I never got a notification about this comment. Being the axis it is the cheaper version and the stock is flimsy towards the muzzle end. Still obviously can shoot well though so nothing I’m going to change at this time. Thanks for watching

[@jonsmith3574]

Trade that thing in for a Howa 1500

[@JimPepperTactical]

Jon Smith I only paid a couple hundred bucks for this lol. I love the 1500s. Do you have one? How’s it shoot?

[@jonsmith3574]

Tack driver. I’ve had bad luck with a couple savages right out of the box. Glad it works for you .

[@ApoloAWP]

If you keep the magazine in empty, can you load the ammo from the top like you would do with a mosin or a k98?

[@JimPepperTactical]

It feeds better from the magazine, but yes you can single load it.

[@ApoloAWP]

What i meant was loading the 4 bullets into the magazine from the top, for some reason its a little bit awkard to but the magazine in my 308

[@JimPepperTactical]

oh im sorry. I don't think you can do that, the rounds have to be slid in from front to back of the magazine slightly when loading. I can't say I've tried it though, I will and report back.

[@ApoloAWP]

Thanks! I'll wait for the awnser!

[@JimPepperTactical]

Apolo Auditore Just checked, it won't work.

[@Me2Lancer]

At about 3700 FPS the barrel will get hot.

[@Me2Lancer]

For a rest try a bipod with a Caldwell bag.

[@JimPepperTactical]

Thanks!

[@ch34pskate16]

I forgot to ask. Has anyone tried using the canned freezing spray like SUPER COLD to cold down the barrel?

[@JimPepperTactical]

Havent done that myself

[@sleepy22602]

Prob the trigger pull that rifle trigger is about 7 lbs

[@JimPepperTactical]

ron sampson Probably was out of the box. About 3 pounds now.

[@sleepy22602]

yea just shot mine out of the box gettin trigger worked on next week.

[@appalachianamerican7171]

The axis ll XP with a heavy barrel and accutrigger ships with a pull weight of around 18 oz. Go read the specs for one

[@ethanamldon5657]

And look for hordney 53 gr

[@boomer3305]

there all reloadable

[@ryanstewart9318]

What kind of scope and sunshade is that i like the set up

[@JimPepperTactical]

Ryan Stewart Votex crossfire 2 6-18. Comes with the sunshade which is nice. Standard crosshair reticle which is fine for a 22-250 imo. Clear glass. And good price. Thanks for watching

[@ryanstewart9318]

Where did you buy the scope with the sunshade

[@JimPepperTactical]

Ryan Stewart no idea man, bought it online years ago when I found a deal. Watch gundeals. Optics planet has good deals frequently too. This shop was cheap, idk the price anymore, but cheap.