Introduction
The Savage Axis rifle has carved a niche for itself in the world of affordable, accurate firearms. Its simplicity and reliable performance have made it a favorite among hunters and recreational shooters alike. While the Savage Axis offers excellent value for its price point, one area where many owners seek improvement is the trigger. A crisp, clean trigger pull significantly enhances accuracy, allowing for more consistent shot placement and a more enjoyable shooting experience. This guide provides a detailed walk-through on how to adjust the trigger on your Savage Axis rifle, enabling you to optimize its performance.
It’s paramount to start with a strong emphasis on safety. Any work involving firearms demands utmost caution and adherence to safety protocols. Proceed with this task only if you are comfortable and confident in your abilities. If at any point you are unsure, it is always best to consult a qualified gunsmith.
The very first step, before even touching the rifle with a screwdriver, is to ensure it is completely unloaded. This seems obvious, but it’s the most crucial step in any firearm maintenance. Open the bolt and visually inspect the chamber, verifying that no round is present. Remove the magazine. Physically and visually check the magazine to confirm it is empty. Point the muzzle of the rifle in a safe direction, ideally towards a designated, controlled area where a negligent discharge would not cause harm. After confirming the absence of ammunition, dry fire the rifle. This final check is critical. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
Once you’ve confirmed the rifle is unloaded and the area is safe, you are ready to begin.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving in, gather your tools. You’ll need a set of appropriately sized screwdrivers. The exact sizes needed will vary depending on your specific Savage Axis model, so it’s a good idea to have a set that covers a range of sizes. Consider including a torque wrench if you have one. It’s crucial to avoid over-tightening screws, and a torque wrench ensures you apply the correct amount of force. You might also need a set of Allen wrenches, depending on the trigger design. A small punch and hammer might be useful, but are often unnecessary.
Finally, have cleaning supplies and gun oil or lubricant readily available. These will be used as the process unfolds. A clean workspace, free from distractions and well-lit is also vital.
Understanding the Trigger System
The Savage Axis trigger system, while not overly complex, is usually adjustable to fine-tune your shooting experience. It features a mechanism with components such as a trigger spring or adjustment screw. The core of the trigger system includes the sear, responsible for holding the firing pin or striker back. When the trigger is pulled, the sear releases, allowing the firing pin to strike the primer and fire the round. Another crucial component is overtravel, which refers to the distance the trigger travels after the round has been fired.
The primary adjustment usually concerns the pull weight, which dictates how much force is needed to pull the trigger and fire the rifle. The goal is to achieve a pull weight that is both light enough for accuracy but also safe enough to prevent accidental discharges.
Adjusting the Trigger: Step-by-Step
Accessing the Trigger Mechanism
The initial step involves removing the rifle from its stock. Start by disengaging the safety mechanism. This should be your first step for safety.
With the rifle unloaded and the safety disengaged, carefully remove the action screws, typically found on the underside of the rifle’s stock. These screws secure the action to the stock. The exact location and number of screws will vary slightly depending on the specific model of your Savage Axis. Be sure to use a screwdriver that fits the screw heads precisely, avoiding any stripping.
Once the screws are removed, the action (the metal part containing the barrel, bolt, and trigger mechanism) should lift out of the stock. It might require a gentle amount of effort, but don’t force anything. If it resists, double-check that you’ve removed all the screws. Once the action is free, set the stock aside in a safe location, out of the way.
Now, you have direct access to the trigger mechanism.
Adjusting the Trigger Pull Weight
The primary adjustment on the Savage Axis trigger involves the trigger pull weight. Locate the adjustment screw; this is often the most readily identifiable component on the trigger housing. The location of this screw may vary slightly, so consult your owner’s manual or do a quick online search specific to your model if you are struggling to find it.
The adjustment screw controls the spring tension. To decrease the pull weight, you will typically turn the screw counter-clockwise. Conversely, turning it clockwise usually increases the pull weight, making the trigger require more force to fire. Begin by making small adjustments – never more than a quarter of a turn at a time. After each adjustment, you’ll need to test the trigger to evaluate the change.
Important Note: When adjusting the trigger pull weight, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Avoid making the trigger too light. If the trigger pull weight is set too low, it increases the risk of accidental discharge. A drop test (bumping the buttstock on the ground or from a low height) should not cause the rifle to fire. Remember, while a lighter trigger can enhance accuracy, it’s useless if it compromises safety. Consider the intended use of the rifle. A hunting rifle may require a slightly heavier trigger pull than a target rifle for safety reasons. Also, if you’re uncertain about the minimum safe trigger pull weight, consult with a gunsmith or research safe standards.
After making each adjustment, perform a function check, explained further in this guide.
Function Checks for Safety
Before reassembling, perform a few function checks. With the action out of the stock, point the rifle in a safe direction. Dry fire the rifle. Then, while pointing the rifle in a safe direction, try bumping the buttstock on a padded surface to simulate a drop. The rifle should not fire. If the rifle does fire unexpectedly, it’s a clear sign that the trigger pull is too light or the adjustment wasn’t done correctly.
Reassembly and Dry Fire Testing
Once you’re content with the adjustment, the rifle needs to be reassembled. Carefully place the action back into the stock. Ensure that it sits correctly and that all components align properly. Replace the action screws and tighten them, but be careful not to overtighten them, which could damage the stock or action. If you have a torque wrench, use it to tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can usually be found in the owner’s manual.
With the rifle reassembled, you are ready to test the trigger pull. Point the rifle in a safe direction. Dry fire the rifle. Repeat this several times to get a feel for the trigger. Evaluate for the following:
- Creep: Is there any unwanted movement of the trigger before it breaks?
- Break: Is the trigger break crisp and clean, or does it feel mushy?
- Overtravel: Does the trigger continue to move significantly after the shot is fired? If the overtravel is excessive, it can negatively impact accuracy.
After a series of dry fires, if you are satisfied with the trigger feel, proceed to live fire testing if you are comfortable and ready.
Troubleshooting
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, problems arise. Here’s how to address some potential issues:
- Trigger too light/unsafe: If you accidentally made the trigger too light, immediately increase the pull weight by adjusting the screw clockwise (or according to your rifle model). Perform the function checks mentioned previously (dropping the stock) to confirm that the rifle is safe. If, despite adjustments, you can’t achieve a safe and reliable trigger pull weight, do not use the rifle and seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
- Trigger not functioning properly: If the trigger fails to function correctly, double-check the adjustment screw. Ensure that the trigger mechanism is clean and free of any debris or obstructions. Make sure all parts were reassembled correctly. If the problem persists, it is advisable to consult with a gunsmith.
- Issues with sear engagement: Sear engagement problems can cause the trigger to feel gritty or to not function properly. If this is the case, consult a gunsmith, as adjusting the sear can be complicated.
Safety and Conclusion
Throughout this process, the importance of safety has been paramount. Always prioritize the safe handling of firearms.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully adjust the trigger on your Savage Axis rifle. Improving the trigger will likely result in enhanced accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience. The difference between a good and a great shot can often be found with an improved trigger pull.
Remember, before engaging in any modifications, always ensure the rifle is unloaded and that you are in a safe environment.
- Reiterate safety: Practice safe gun handling. This includes knowing the four basic rules of gun safety:
- Treat every gun as if it is loaded.
- Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you have decided to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
If you are uncertain or uncomfortable at any point, consult with a qualified gunsmith. Remember, the goal is a safe and accurate rifle.
If you have successfully adjusted your trigger and have any tips or insights to share, please consider sharing them! Happy shooting.
