Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC Review

First Thoughts on the Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC

The Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC promises to be a game-changer in the world of precision rifles, offering a blend of innovative design and high-quality materials. Faxon Firearms aims to deliver a superior shooting experience with this receiver, and I’m eager to see if it lives up to the hype.

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve been looking for a receiver that can provide both accuracy and reliability in demanding environments. The integrated 20-MOA Picatinny rail and compatibility with Remington 700 short action stocks immediately caught my attention.

My first impression upon unboxing the Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. The matte DLC finish looks fantastic and feels incredibly durable. Compared to other receivers I’ve worked with, like those from Remington or Savage, the Faxon FX7 appears to offer a more refined approach with its integrated features and 6-lug bolt.

I picked the Faxon FX7 over other options because of its advanced features like the 6-Lug configuration arranged in 2 rings of 3 and the promise of enhanced durability through the ArmorLube™ DLC coating. I was excited to see if these features would translate into improved accuracy and overall performance on the range and in the field. Initial thoughts are very positive, this is not just another parts bin receiver.

Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC was at a local shooting range, building out a rifle with a Faxon pre-fit barrel and an AICS magazine. I tested the rifle in relatively good weather conditions, with a slight breeze and clear skies.

The ease of use was immediately apparent; the receiver mated perfectly with the Remington 700 pattern stock I had on hand and the Faxon pre-fit barrel made assembly simple. The 70-degree bolt lift felt smooth and effortless, significantly improving the speed of follow-up shots. One minor surprise was the trigger hanger required minor fitting in my chosen stock, nothing major but a bit of work nonetheless.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC has proven to be an extremely reliable and durable platform. There are virtually no signs of wear and tear on the receiver, and the ArmorLube™ DLC coating continues to provide excellent protection against corrosion and abrasion.

Maintenance has been incredibly easy; a simple wipe-down after each range session is usually sufficient to keep it in excellent condition. Compared to some of my previous experiences with other receivers, the Faxon FX7 stands out in terms of its consistent performance and minimal maintenance requirements.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC

Specifications

  • Integrated 20-MOA Picatinny Rail: Provides a solid platform for mounting optics, allowing for greater elevation adjustments at longer ranges. This is a significant advantage for precision shooting, ensuring the optic has sufficient adjustment to compensate for bullet drop.
  • Integrated Recoil Lug: Ensures precise and consistent bedding, enhancing accuracy by minimizing movement between the receiver and stock. The integrated design provides a more robust and reliable connection compared to separate recoil lugs.
  • 70-Degree Bolt Lift: Allows for faster and smoother bolt operation, increasing the speed of follow-up shots and reducing the risk of scope interference. This is especially beneficial in competitive shooting scenarios where speed is crucial.
  • 6-Lug Configuration Arranged in 2 Rings of 3: Provides increased bolt strength and a more even distribution of force, contributing to improved accuracy and reduced bolt flex. This design is typically found in higher-end custom actions, offering a significant performance upgrade.
  • Compatible with Remington® 700 Short Action Stocks and Chassis Systems: Offers a wide range of aftermarket options for stocks and chassis, allowing users to customize the rifle to their specific preferences. This compatibility makes it easy to upgrade and personalize the rifle.
  • Compatible with Remington® 700 Pattern Triggers: Provides a vast selection of aftermarket triggers, allowing users to fine-tune the trigger pull to their desired weight and feel. This compatibility ensures a smooth and consistent trigger performance.
  • Compatible with Faxon Firearms FX7 Prefit barrels & Similar: Ensures a seamless and accurate barrel installation, eliminating the need for gunsmithing and enhancing overall performance. The pre-fit design simplifies the build process and ensures optimal accuracy.
  • Compatible with AICS and AW Magazines: Offers reliable feeding and increased magazine capacity, making it suitable for both hunting and competitive shooting. The AICS and AW magazine compatibility ensures a wide range of available magazine options.
  • 416 Stainless Steel Action Body: Provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh environmental conditions. This high-quality material ensures the receiver can withstand the rigors of field use.
  • 4340 Carbon Steel Bolt – Features Faxon’s Original Flame Fluting as a nod to our industry leading barrels: Enhances bolt strength and reliability, while the flame fluting reduces weight and provides a distinctive aesthetic. The use of high-quality carbon steel ensures the bolt can withstand high pressures and repeated use.
  • ArmorLube™ DLC Coating – enhances durability while providing a low-glare finish: Offers exceptional wear resistance and a non-reflective surface, ideal for tactical and hunting applications. The DLC coating significantly extends the life of the receiver and protects it from scratches and corrosion.
  • Straight interchangeable bolt handle: Allows for easy customization and replacement of the bolt handle, accommodating different user preferences and shooting styles. This feature enhances the ergonomics and overall feel of the rifle.
  • M16 Style Extractor: Provides reliable and consistent extraction of spent cartridges, enhancing overall reliability and reducing the risk of malfunctions. The M16 style extractor is known for its robust design and dependable performance.
  • Plunger Style Ejector: Ensures positive and consistent ejection of spent cartridges, preventing jams and ensuring smooth cycling of the action. The plunger style ejector is a reliable and effective design that contributes to overall rifle performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC performs exceptionally well, delivering outstanding accuracy and reliability. The smooth bolt action, combined with the crisp trigger pull (using a Timney trigger), makes it a pleasure to shoot.

The strengths of this receiver lie in its precision engineering and high-quality materials. The only area that could potentially see improvement is the requirement for minor inletting in some stocks, a drop-in fit across all models would be ideal.

The Faxon FX7 exceeds my expectations, providing a level of performance that rivals custom actions costing significantly more.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC is excellent; the materials used are top-notch, and the overall fit and finish are impeccable. The receiver feels solid and well-balanced, contributing to a comfortable shooting experience.

The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The interchangeable bolt handle and compatibility with standard Remington 700 parts make it easy to customize and maintain.

Durability & Maintenance

The Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC is built to last, thanks to its high-quality stainless steel construction and ArmorLube™ DLC coating. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication to keep it in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC comes with a standard bolt handle and is compatible with a wide range of accessories. These include Remington 700 pattern triggers, AICS and AW magazines, and Faxon pre-fit barrels.

The receiver is also compatible with various stocks and chassis systems designed for the Remington 700 short action, offering extensive customization options.

Pros and Cons of Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC

Pros

  • Exceptional Accuracy: The integrated recoil lug and 6-lug bolt design contribute to outstanding accuracy, making it ideal for precision shooting.
  • Enhanced Durability: The 416 stainless steel action body and ArmorLube™ DLC coating provide excellent corrosion resistance and wear protection.
  • Smooth Bolt Action: The 70-degree bolt lift allows for faster and smoother cycling, improving the overall shooting experience.
  • Wide Compatibility: Compatible with Remington 700 pattern stocks, triggers, and AICS/AW magazines, offering extensive customization options.
  • Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain, ensuring long-lasting performance with minimal effort.

Cons

  • Stock Inletting: Some stocks may require additional inletting to accommodate the trigger hanger.
  • Price Point: While offering excellent value, the initial investment might be higher compared to basic receivers.


Who Should Buy Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC?

The Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC is perfect for precision shooters, hunters seeking long-range accuracy, and anyone looking to build a custom rifle with high-quality components. It is a great choice for those who appreciate innovative design and reliable performance.

This product might not be the best choice for budget-conscious builders or those who prefer a more traditional, non-customizable platform.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality Remington 700 pattern trigger, such as a Timney or TriggerTech, to fully realize the receiver’s potential. A Faxon pre-fit barrel is also highly recommended for optimal accuracy and ease of installation.

Conclusion on Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC

The Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC is an exceptional product that delivers on its promise of accuracy, reliability, and innovation. The value proposition is strong, given the advanced features and high-quality materials used in its construction.

I would highly recommend the Faxon FX7 to anyone looking to build a precision rifle with top-tier components. It’s a solid investment that will provide years of reliable performance and a superior shooting experience. If you are considering a new build or upgrading your current rifle, give the Faxon FX7 Bolt Action Receiver – Matte DLC a serious look – you won’t be disappointed!


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