The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black promises a transformation for Savage AXIS rifles, a pledge to lighten the load and enhance the ergonomics for dedicated hunters. It’s more than just a stock; it’s a fully-featured upgrade designed to turn a serviceable rifle into a truly custom hunting companion.
I was looking for a solution to address the excessive weight of my current hunting setup. I desired a stock that would significantly reduce weight without sacrificing accuracy or durability. The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock seemed to offer the perfect balance.
Unboxing the stock revealed a well-molded, robust piece of kit. The black polymer had a reassuringly solid feel, and the aluminum V-bedding block hinted at improved accuracy potential. It was noticeably lighter than the factory stock it was intended to replace, a promising start.
I considered options from Boyds Gunstocks and Bell and Carlson. However, the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock’s M-LOK compatibility and adjustable LOP features swayed my decision. I appreciated the versatility and the ability to customize the rifle to my specific needs and preferences.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The weight reduction was immediately noticeable, and the enhanced ergonomics felt like a significant improvement over the factory stock. I was genuinely excited to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock was on a deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Eastern Sierras. The variable terrain offered a great environment to assess the stock’s performance. The weather was cool and dry, ideal for putting the rifle through its paces.
The stock’s lighter weight was a game-changer during long treks through the mountains. I immediately noticed a significant reduction in fatigue compared to previous hunts with the factory stock. The enhanced grip made shouldering the rifle in awkward positions easier and more secure.
The installation process was straightforward, thanks to Magpul’s clear instructions. It took me about 30 minutes, including adjusting the length of pull. After a quick zeroing session, the rifle was shooting consistent sub-MOA groups with my preferred hunting load.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight looseness in the magazine well. However, this was easily remedied by tightening the stock screws slightly more. The rifle performed flawlessly after this minor adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has endured numerous hunts, trips to the range, and countless hours bouncing around in my truck. There are no signs of cracking or significant wear, even in high-stress areas.
Cleaning and maintenance have been a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s required to remove dirt and grime. The polymer construction is resistant to scratches and chemicals, maintaining its finish remarkably well.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket stocks, the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock stands out for its combination of lightweight design and rugged durability. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both comfort and performance. It instilled confidence during shots that I didn’t have before.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black
Specifications
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black is specifically designed for Savage AXIS short action rifles. The stock weighs approximately 2.4 lbs (without accessories), contributing significantly to weight reduction. It accommodates barrel profiles up to Medium Palma, offering versatility for various setups.
The stock features an aluminum V-bedding block with reinforced steel pillars for enhanced accuracy and stability. It is compatible with both right and left-hand rifles via interchangeable inlet inserts. The adjustable length of pull (LOP) is customizable with included 0.5″ spacers, allowing for a personalized fit.
These specifications translate to improved accuracy, reduced weight, and enhanced ergonomics. The V-bedding block ensures a solid connection between the action and stock, leading to more consistent shots. The lightweight design reduces fatigue, especially during long hunting trips.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock dramatically improves the handling and accuracy of the Savage AXIS. The rigid construction and enhanced bedding provide a more stable shooting platform. Recoil management is noticeably improved, leading to faster follow-up shots.
The stock’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, enhanced ergonomics, and improved accuracy potential. A minor weakness is the slight magazine well looseness that I initially encountered, though this was easily resolved. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a hunting stock upgrade.
The stock has become more than just a stock. It is now an integral part of my rifle. It instilled more confidence, which in turn made me a better shooter.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes ergonomics. The stock is comfortable to hold and shoulder, even for extended periods. The integrated sling swivel studs and M-LOK slots provide ample attachment points for accessories.
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality polymer and a robust aluminum bedding block. The stock feels solid and durable without being overly heavy. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the LOP and cheek risers, but the process is fairly straightforward.
The design and ergonomics were critical to my decision. Comfort and build quality should always be at the forefront of any product. Magpul knocked it out of the park in this area.
Durability & Maintenance
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock is built to last. The polymer construction is highly resistant to impacts, scratches, and chemicals. The aluminum bedding block provides a stable and corrosion-resistant foundation.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The stock is designed for easy disassembly and reassembly, making it easy to access and clean the action. With proper care, the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock should provide many years of reliable service.
The durability and ease of maintenance were critical. As a hunter, I needed something that could withstand the conditions. The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock met all these requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock is highly customizable, allowing users to tailor it to their specific needs. It features multiple M-LOK slots on the forend for attaching accessories such as bipods, lights, and slings. The stock is also compatible with Magpul cheek risers for adjustable comb height.
The Magpul stock is compatible with most aftermarket Savage AXIS magazines. The adjustable LOP allows users to fine-tune the fit for optimal comfort and shooting performance. These customization options make the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock a versatile platform for building a custom hunting rifle.
I particularly appreciate the flexibility offered by the M-LOK slots. I am able to attach my preferred bipod and sling without issue. I may swap out the cheek riser at some point to experiment with different heights and eye relief.
Pros and Cons of Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black
Pros
- Significantly reduces rifle weight, improving comfort during long hunts.
- Enhances accuracy through a robust aluminum V-bedding block with reinforced steel pillars.
- Offers excellent ergonomics with adjustable length of pull and cheek riser options.
- Provides ample customization options with multiple M-LOK slots for accessory attachment.
- Compatible with both right and left-hand rifles via interchangeable inlet inserts.
Cons
- Slight magazine well looseness may require minor adjustment (tightening stock screws).
- The initial price of $208.95 might be a barrier for budget-conscious shooters.
Who Should Buy Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black?
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black is perfect for hunters seeking to reduce the weight of their Savage AXIS rifle without sacrificing accuracy or durability. It’s also ideal for shooters looking to improve the ergonomics and customization options of their rifle. This stock is also a great fit for anyone looking to upgrade the overall shooting experience with their AXIS rifle.
This stock may not be necessary for casual shooters who only occasionally use their rifle at the range. Those who prioritize absolute minimum weight above all else might find lighter (but potentially less durable) options.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality bipod for enhanced stability during long-range shots. Consider a Magpul cheek riser for optimal eye alignment with your chosen optic.
Conclusion on Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black
The Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black is a fantastic upgrade for any Savage AXIS rifle. It delivers on its promise of reducing weight, enhancing accuracy, and improving ergonomics.
The price of $208.95 is justified by the significant performance gains and durability improvements it provides. This stock transforms the Savage AXIS into a more capable and comfortable hunting rifle.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock to any Savage AXIS owner looking to elevate their shooting experience. It’s a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in the field. Take your Savage AXIS to the next level – upgrade to the Magpul Hunter Lite Stock Savage AXIS Short Action – Black today!