Breaking Down My First Experience with the Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine
The Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine is a specialized piece of kit designed to enhance the functionality and convenience of Savage rifles chambered in the popular .350 Legend cartridge. Savage Arms aims to provide a reliable and readily accessible ammunition source for hunters and sport shooters alike with this magazine.
I was on the hunt for a detachable magazine to convert my older Savage Axis rifle, specifically chambered in .350 Legend, from its factory internal magazine. The .350 Legend is a fantastic round for deer hunting in areas with straight-wall cartridge restrictions, but the factory magazine made for slow reloads, a definite drawback in follow-up shot situations.
Upon receiving the Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine, my initial impression was positive, the matte blued finish gave it a robust feel. The steel construction promised durability, and the overall design seemed well-suited to integrate seamlessly with my Savage Axis rifle.
While there are other aftermarket magazines available for Savage rifles, I chose the Savage Arms magazine for its direct compatibility guarantee and trusted brand reputation. Cheaper alternatives often suffer from feeding issues or poor construction, and I was willing to pay slightly more for reliability.
I was definitely excited, the prospect of quicker reloads in the field was a game-changer, as slow reloads had cost me a second shot opportunity on more than one occasion. A well-designed detachable magazine could significantly improve my hunting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine was at my local shooting range. I wanted to ensure proper feeding and function before taking it into the field.
The magazine performed flawlessly throughout my initial testing, cycling rounds smoothly with no jams or misfeeds. Even during rapid fire drills, it maintained reliable feeding.
It took very little time to get used to the magazine’s operation, the release button was easily accessible and the magazine seated securely with a positive click. The factory internal magazine requires fiddling to ensure rounds are properly seated, which is not needed with this detachable magazine.
The biggest surprise was how much quicker it was to reload, the difference between topping off the internal magazine versus swapping in a fresh detachable one was night and day. The rounds are also easier to load into the magazine itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use at the range and during hunting season, the Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The matte blued finish has held up well to the elements, with only minor scratches appearing from regular handling. Even after being exposed to rain and mud during hunting trips, it still looks and functions like new.
Maintenance is simple, I just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to prevent rust. The steel construction makes it easy to clean, and there are no intricate parts that require special attention.
Compared to my experience with aftermarket magazines for other rifles, the Savage Arms magazine has exceeded my expectations, often these aftermarket magazines are prone to feeding issues or have fitment problems. This magazine functions as well as, or better than, the factory magazines on my other rifles.
Breaking Down the Features of Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine
Specifications
- Caliber: .350 Legend, designed specifically for this popular straight-walled cartridge.
- This caliber specificity ensures reliable feeding and optimal performance, crucial for the round’s intended use in hunting.
- Magazine Capacity: 4 Rounds, offering a balance between compactness and sufficient firepower for most hunting scenarios.
- While a higher capacity would be nice for range use, the 4-round capacity keeps the magazine flush with the rifle’s underside, preventing snags in the field.
- Material: Steel with a Matte Blued Finish, providing exceptional durability and corrosion resistance.
- Steel construction guarantees longevity and ruggedness, a must-have for demanding outdoor conditions.
- Gun Make: Savage, ensuring perfect compatibility and reliable function with Savage rifles.
- This eliminates any guesswork regarding fitment and performance, guaranteeing a seamless integration.
- Gun Model Compatibility: Savage Axis, Savage Apex, Savage Model 10, Savage Model 110, Savage Model 11, Savage Model 16.
- Its wide compatibility across different Savage models makes it a versatile upgrade option for many rifle owners.
Performance & Functionality
The Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine performs its job admirably, providing reliable feeding and quick reloads. It significantly enhances the overall shooting experience, especially in hunting scenarios where follow-up shots may be necessary.
The magazine’s strength lies in its reliable feeding and ease of use, but the limited capacity is a minor drawback, although necessary for legal compliance in some hunting locations. Some shooters may prefer a higher capacity magazine for range practice.
It definitely meets expectations, and I could even argue that it exceeds them. It turns the Savage Axis into a more versatile and practical hunting rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, the steel construction and matte blued finish exude durability and reliability. It is lightweight enough not to add noticeable bulk to the rifle.
The magazine is remarkably user-friendly, the release button is easily accessible, and the magazine seats securely with a positive click. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it a simple upgrade for any Savage rifle owner.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction and robust design, the Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine is expected to last for many years with proper care. The matte blued finish provides excellent protection against corrosion.
Maintenance is straightforward, a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order. The simplicity of the design means there are few parts that can break or require replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The magazine itself doesn’t offer direct customization options, but it opens up the possibility of using a wider variety of aftermarket chassis and stock systems that are designed for detachable magazines. Many chassis systems are designed to use AICS pattern magazines.
While not directly related, having a detachable magazine allows for the use of magazine pouches or carriers on your belt or gear, allowing for faster access to spare ammunition. This can be beneficial in tactical situations or competitive shooting events.
Pros and Cons of Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine
Pros
- Enhanced Reload Speed: Dramatically reduces reload time compared to the factory internal magazine, crucial for follow-up shots.
- Reliable Feeding: Feeds .350 Legend rounds smoothly and consistently, preventing jams and misfeeds.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality steel with a matte blued finish, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Install and Use: Simple drop-in installation with no gunsmithing required, and intuitive operation.
- Direct Compatibility: Guaranteed to fit and function reliably with Savage Axis, Apex, 10/110/11/16 rifles chambered in .350 Legend.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: The 4-round capacity might be restrictive for some users, although it aligns with hunting regulations in many areas.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some aftermarket magazines, but the quality and reliability justify the cost.
Who Should Buy Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine?
Perfect for: Hunters using Savage rifles in .350 Legend, especially in states with straight-wall cartridge restrictions. Also suitable for sport shooters seeking faster reloads and improved rifle handling.
Who should skip this product? Those content with the factory internal magazine or those who need a higher capacity magazine for their shooting activities.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality gun case or soft bag to protect the rifle and magazine, and potentially a magazine pouch or carrier for quick access to spare magazines.
Conclusion on Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine
The Savage Arms .350 Legend Savage Axis/Apex/10/110/11/16 Detachable Magazine is a worthwhile investment for any Savage rifle owner looking to improve the functionality and convenience of their .350 Legend rifle. It significantly enhances reload speed and offers reliable feeding, making it a valuable upgrade for hunting and sport shooting.
The price is justified by the quality construction and the improved shooting experience. It’s a durable and reliable upgrade to my rifle.
I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine to any Savage rifle owner looking to improve their rifle’s handling. Upgrade your Savage .350 Legend today and experience the difference!
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