The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT Made a Bold First Impression
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT isn’t just another action; it’s a statement. This action, from Faxon Firearms, promises to bring precision and reliability to the AR-308 platform, all while looking damn good doing it.
I needed a new action for a precision build in .308; my old one was showing its age and lacking key features. I was specifically looking for an integrated 20-MOA rail and a reliable bolt system.
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT arrived well-packaged and immediately impressed with its polished DLC coating. The action felt substantial, the bolt moved smoothly, and the integrated rail was perfectly aligned. It screamed quality.
I considered actions from Defiance Machine and American Rifle Company, but Faxon’s aggressive pricing and unique features swayed me. The fluted bolt was a visually appealing differentiator that suggested a commitment to innovation. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; I couldn’t wait to get it installed and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT at my local shooting range, in relatively mild conditions. Initial cycling felt incredibly smooth with both AICS and AW magazines loaded with .308 Winchester 175 grain Sierra MatchKing ammunition. I found the 70-degree bolt lift effortless, leading to faster follow-up shots.
The performance was excellent, even in a slightly dusty environment due to high traffic. I did not need any time to get used to it; the bolt operated exactly as expected.
The only initial surprise was how much smoother it was than my previous, well-worn action; it definitely improved shot-to-shot consistency.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT continues to impress. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after several hundred rounds. The DLC coating seems to be holding up remarkably well against scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning is straightforward; standard solvents and lubricants are all that’s needed. Compared to my old action, the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT is significantly more reliable and consistent.
Breaking Down the Features of FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT
Specifications
Action Body: Made from 416-R Stainless Steel, the action body promises excellent corrosion resistance and dimensional stability. This is a crucial factor for long-term accuracy.
Bolt: Crafted from 4340 Carbon Steel, the bolt features Faxon’s signature flame fluting. The fluting isn’t just for looks; it aids in debris evacuation and reduces weight.
Coating: A polished DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating enhances both durability and aesthetics. DLC coatings are known for their exceptional hardness and low friction.
Bolt Lift: A 70-degree bolt lift offers a shorter, faster cycling motion. This reduces the time needed for follow-up shots.
Lug Configuration: The 6-Lug configuration is arranged in two rings of three. This provides enhanced lockup strength and even pressure distribution.
Integrated Rail: A built-in 20-MOA Picatinny rail provides a solid mounting platform for optics. This eliminates the need for aftermarket bases and ensures perfect alignment.
Integrated Recoil Lug: The integrated recoil lug ensures consistent bedding and reduces stress on the receiver. This is essential for maintaining accuracy over time.
Bolt Handle: A straight, interchangeable bolt handle offers customization options. This allows users to tailor the action to their specific needs.
Magazine Compatibility: Compatible with both AICS and AW Magazines offering versatile magazine choices. This provides flexibility for different shooting applications.
Trigger Compatibility: Compatible with Remington® 700 pattern triggers offering a wide variety of trigger choices. This makes upgrading the trigger a breeze.
Extractor: An M16 Style Extractor ensures reliable cartridge extraction. The M16 extractor is known for its robustness and longevity.
Ejector: A Plunger Style Ejector provides consistent and forceful ejection. This contributes to reliable cycling.
Barrel Compatibility: Designed to work with Faxon Firearms FX7 Prefit barrels & Similar. It simplifies barrel installation and guarantees optimal performance.
Stock Compatibility: Compatible with Remington® 700 short action stocks and chassis systems. It gives a massive amount of options for stocks and chassis’.
These specifications are vital because they contribute to the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT’s overall accuracy, reliability, and user-friendliness. The high-quality materials, precise machining, and thoughtful design result in an action that is both enjoyable to use and capable of delivering exceptional performance.
Performance & Functionality
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT performs flawlessly; accuracy is superb, and reliability is unquestionable. The smooth cycling and consistent ejection ensure uninterrupted shooting.
The action’s strengths lie in its smooth operation, robust construction, and integrated features. Some might prefer a different bolt handle design, but that’s a matter of personal preference. It exceeds expectations, providing a level of performance that rivals actions costing significantly more.
Design & Ergonomics
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT features a sleek and modern design, with excellent build quality and materials. The weight is manageable, and the action feels comfortable and secure in the hand.
The action is incredibly user-friendly, with no noticeable learning curve; the intuitive design makes it easy to use even for those unfamiliar with custom actions.
Durability & Maintenance
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT appears to be built to last a lifetime; the high-quality materials and robust construction suggest excellent longevity. The action is easy to maintain and repair; standard tools and solvents are all that are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT does not include any accessories, focusing solely on providing a high-quality action. Customization options are plentiful; users can choose from a wide variety of Remington 700-compatible triggers, stocks, and chassis.
It is compatible with most aftermarket accessories designed for the Remington 700 short action platform.
Pros and Cons of FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT
Pros
- Exceptionally Smooth Cycling: The bolt operates with minimal friction, leading to faster and more consistent follow-up shots.
- Integrated 20-MOA Rail: The built-in rail ensures perfect optic alignment and eliminates the need for aftermarket bases.
- High-Quality Materials and Construction: The 416-R stainless steel and 4340 carbon steel construction ensures long-term durability and reliability.
- DLC Coating: The DLC coating enhances durability and reduces friction, contributing to smoother operation.
- 70-Degree Bolt Lift: Reduces cycling time and improves ergonomics.
Cons
- Price: At $790.49, it might be a bit expensive for budget-conscious builders.
- Bolt Handle Style: While interchangeable, the straight bolt handle might not be ideal for everyone’s preferences.
Who Should Buy FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT?
Perfect for precision rifle builders, competitive shooters, and serious hunters looking for a reliable and accurate action. Anyone building a .308 rifle for long-range shooting will greatly benefit from the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT.
Someone on a tight budget might want to explore less expensive options; however, the long-term value of the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT justifies the price for serious shooters.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality Remington 700-compatible trigger, a precision barrel (ideally a Faxon FX7 prefit barrel), and a comfortable stock or chassis.
Conclusion on FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT
The FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises of accuracy, reliability, and smooth operation. The price is justified by the quality of materials, precision machining, and integrated features.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT to anyone building a .308 precision rifle. If you’re looking for a high-performance action that will last a lifetime, the FAXON FX7 ACTION .308 BOLT is an excellent choice. Upgrade your build today!