The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa Made a Bold First Impression
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa Picatinny rail aims to enhance the long-range shooting capabilities of the popular Savage Edge and Axis rifles. It’s a simple, yet potentially impactful upgrade for shooters looking to extend their effective range and dial in those distant shots without maxing out their scope’s internal adjustments. As a long-time hunting and precision shooting enthusiast, I was intrigued to see if this relatively inexpensive rail could truly improve the performance of these budget-friendly rifles.
My aging eyes and a desire to reach out further on western hunts sparked my interest in this product. I was looking for a simple, effective way to increase my scope’s usable elevation without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail felt solid and well-machined. The black anodized finish was even and consistent, and the Picatinny slots were cleanly cut. I appreciated the minimalist design, as I didn’t want anything bulky or cumbersome adding unnecessary weight to my rifle.
I considered other options, including adjustable scope mounts and shimming the existing rail. I chose the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail because it seemed like the most straightforward and reliable solution for adding elevation. It also promised a repeatable, secure mounting platform, unlike shims.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The rail appeared well-made and ready for installation, and I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local range, under relatively ideal conditions. The weather was clear, with minimal wind, providing a stable environment to evaluate the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail’s impact on accuracy. I mounted the rail on my Savage Axis in .308 Winchester, using a reputable set of scope rings and my trusted Leupold VX-3i scope.
The improved elevation adjustment was immediately apparent. I was able to zero my rifle at 100 yards and still have plenty of upward travel in my scope for longer-range shots. This was a huge improvement over my previous setup, where I was nearing the top of my scope’s adjustment range at relatively short distances.
Installation was relatively straightforward, although I recommend using a torque wrench to ensure proper screw tension. A dab of thread locker is also a good idea to prevent screws from loosening under recoil. I experienced no significant issues during installation or initial shooting, and the rail seemed to hold zero well.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a deer hunting trip in the mountains, the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my rifle. I have experienced no issues with shifting zero or loosening screws, even after repeated exposure to rough terrain and inclement weather. The anodized finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. I periodically check the screw tension to ensure everything remains secure. Compared to my previous setup, which required constant adjustments and tinkering, the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail has been a significant improvement in terms of both performance and convenience.
Breaking Down the Features of Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa
Specifications
Material: The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail is typically constructed from lightweight aluminum, often 6061-T6, for optimal strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures durability without adding excessive weight to the rifle.
Finish: A durable black anodized finish protects the rail from corrosion and wear. The matte finish also helps to reduce glare and reflections, minimizing visual distractions during shooting.
MOA: The rail provides a 20 MOA (Minute of Angle) bias for increased elevation adjustment. This is crucial for long-range shooting, as it allows the scope to operate closer to its optical center, improving image quality and reducing parallax.
Compatibility: Designed specifically for Savage Edge and Savage Axis rifles, ensuring a precise fit and secure mounting. The rail is compatible with most Picatinny-style scope rings and accessories.
Mounting Hardware: The rail typically includes the necessary mounting screws for easy installation. It is recommended to use a torque wrench to ensure proper screw tension and prevent damage to the receiver.
These specifications are crucial for long-range accuracy. The 20 MOA bias is the most significant aspect, maximizing the use of your scope’s elevation adjustments.
Performance & Functionality
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail significantly enhances the long-range shooting capabilities of the Savage Edge and Axis rifles. It allows shooters to dial in accurate shots at extended distances without running out of scope adjustment.
The primary strength is the added elevation, which translates to improved accuracy and consistency at longer ranges. The only potential weakness is that some shooters may not require the full 20 MOA, depending on their typical shooting distances and scope capabilities. For most, it is a very welcome addition.
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a simple and effective solution for increasing elevation adjustment, improving long-range accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail features a simple and functional design. Its lightweight construction and low profile ensure minimal impact on the rifle’s overall ergonomics. The rail is well-machined and provides a solid and stable mounting platform for optics.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a minimal amount of time. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the rail.
Durability & Maintenance
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail is built to last, thanks to its durable aluminum construction and corrosion-resistant finish. With proper care and maintenance, the rail should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance primarily involves occasional cleaning and inspection to ensure the mounting screws remain secure. No special tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail itself does not come with any additional accessories. Its primary function is to provide a mounting platform for optics. However, it is compatible with a wide range of Picatinny-style scope rings, allowing users to customize their scope mounting setup to their specific needs.
The rail is also compatible with other Picatinny-based accessories, such as bipods and night vision devices. This versatility makes the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail a valuable addition to any Savage Edge or Axis rifle.
Pros and Cons of Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa
Pros
- Provides a 20 MOA bias for increased elevation adjustment, significantly improving long-range accuracy.
- Constructed from durable aluminum with a corrosion-resistant finish, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Simple and straightforward installation process, requiring only basic tools.
- Compatible with a wide range of Picatinny-style scope rings and accessories, allowing for customization.
- Relatively inexpensive upgrade, offering significant performance benefits at a reasonable price.
Cons
- The 20 MOA bias may be excessive for shooters who primarily shoot at shorter distances.
- Requires proper torqueing of mounting screws to ensure a secure and stable mounting platform.
Who Should Buy Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa?
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa is perfect for hunters and target shooters who want to extend the effective range of their Savage Edge or Axis rifles. It is especially beneficial for those who frequently shoot at distances beyond 300 yards. Long-range shooters will see a significant improvement.
This product is not ideal for shooters who primarily shoot at close ranges (under 200 yards) or those who already have a scope with a large amount of internal elevation adjustment. Those using red dots for close range should also skip.
A must-have accessory for this rail is a quality set of Picatinny scope rings. A torque wrench is also highly recommended for proper installation.
Conclusion on Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa
The Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail is a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade for Savage Edge and Axis rifles. It provides a significant boost in long-range shooting capabilities by increasing elevation adjustment. For just $35.99, it’s hard to argue against the value proposition.
The price is definitely justified, considering the performance benefits it provides. The rail is well-made, easy to install, and compatible with a wide range of accessories.
I would personally recommend the Savage Edge/Axis 20Moa rail to anyone looking to improve the long-range accuracy of their Savage Edge or Axis rifle. Enhance your shooting capabilities today and experience the difference a 20 MOA rail can make!