Curtis Custom Axiom Review

[Clucknmoan]

I know there was a thread on here a month or so ago, just want to get the latest info.

I was surprised today when my new rifle showed up today with a Axiom instead of a Kelbly Atlas. Initially not thrilled about this obviously because it's not what I ordered but I'm at least entertaining the idea of it being acceptable. I didn't order the Atlas for any unique properties, just a proven action that wasn't too expensive.

Rifle is chambered in 6x47 with an M24 contour and will be used for PRS and long range varmints.

Question is will this action fit the need for years to come and is it of equal value to the Atlas? I know what they sell for, so value, not cost. Barrels are disposable, actions are for a lifetime! I understand that there have been some concerns about the short tennon in these with heavier barrels. There isn't anyone I know around here that has one, so it's not like I can go shoot a buddies.

My options as I see it are to either keep it as is if it will fit the bill, make them honor the original Altas spec, or change my order to a Defiance (easier to do now than before since I've put more in the gun account ). Of course the second 2 options will be time consuming. I haven't talked with them about lead times to rebuild yet.

What's the goods and bads of this action and what would you fellows do?

Thanks in advance

 

[Alex Wheeler]

Tenon length is irrelevant. The shoulder points the barrel, the tenon just provides the force to pull it back and center up in the threads. Long or short, either way is fine.

 

[MDM]

I guess it would be hard to speak on longevity on something that's only been out 5-6 months, but I can tell you I have been really happy with mine. I've got a couple of PRS matches under my belt without any action related hiccups. The 60 degree throw is downright lovely for this type of shooting. It's quick and smooth without actually trying to go fast, and it will spoil you. I just fit a new blank onto my old standby trued remmy that has 20 years of rounds through it, and it is very slick, but the 90 degree throw just don't seem right anymore. Luckily, its just an nighttime coyote rig. I've talked to several shooters that are making the switch for the 2018 season.

 

[Clucknmoan]

Thanks for the input. Wish there was more info on these. I did talk with action manufacturer today and they were very helpful. Very willing to help if any issues come up.

Makes me feel better knowing I don't have to deal with the outfit that put it together if I do keep it.

 

[Dgd6mm]

Masterpiece Arms is offering Axioms in their built rifles now among others.

 

[Alex Wheeler]

I think for PRS/hunting you will be happy with it.

 

[Clucknmoan]

Masterpiece Arms is offering Axioms in their built rifles now among others.

Yeah, they should tell their customers that have builds on order that instead of the big ta-dah surprise when you get it.

 

[Dgd6mm]

Yeah, they should tell their customers that have builds on order that instead of the big ta-dah surprise when you get it.

I agree, and had a feeling.

 

[shoot4fun]

Did you build sheet specify the Atlas Tactical action?
Did you pay for the Atlas? The Axiom is $200 less unless they did the complete DLC finish.
A 3-lug action that provided 60˚ bolt throw and their version of the DS roller cocking piece should be pretty smooth.
Bottom line is that I would trust that Phil and MPA have provided me with the best parts and expert craftsmanship on the build. I assume it is in one of their chassis as well?

 

[Dgd6mm]

Did you build sheet specify the Atlas Tactical action?
Did you pay for the Atlas? The Axiom is $200 less unless they did the complete DLC finish.
A 3-lug action that provided 60˚ bolt throw and their version of the DS roller cocking piece should be pretty smooth.
Bottom line is that I would trust that Phil and MPA have provided me with the best parts and expert craftsmanship on the build. I assume it is in one of their chassis as well?

I agree, I would not hesitate to have Phil's company build me one. I just had a feeling it was from there because MPA recently added the Axiom action to their line.

 

[Clucknmoan]

Did you build sheet specify the Atlas Tactical action?
Did you pay for the Atlas? The Axiom is $200 less unless they did the complete DLC finish.
A 3-lug action that provided 60˚ bolt throw and their version of the DS roller cocking piece should be pretty smooth.
Bottom line is that I would trust that Phil and MPA have provided me with the best parts and expert craftsmanship on the build. I assume it is in one of their chassis as well?

Yes, build sheet specified Atlas, no they did not reduce the price and only the bolt is DLC.

I don't really want to run these guys into the ground, but this entire process was just unbelievable. I'll leave it at that.

Workmanship looks good, I could definately get used to the 60 degree throw, very smooth. I decided to keep it, especially after doing some research and finding out I could deal directly with the action manufacturer in the future.

 

[shoot4fun]

I don't really want to run these guys into the ground, but this entire process was just unbelievable. I'll leave it at that.

MPA has a great rep in the PRS game so you would most likely lose more than gain by doing so. In the long run I would think you'll enjoy the new rifle. I've found it best to deal with the positive and forget the negative. Even when it is hard to do.

 

[MDM]

Did you build sheet specify the Atlas Tactical action?
Did you pay for the Atlas? The Axiom is $200 less unless they did the complete DLC finish.

Actually, its the other way around, almost. Pricing has changed a bit on both. Either way, I think he will end up in love with the Axiom and the 60 degree throw.

 

[shoot4fun]

Actually, its the other way around, almost. Pricing has changed a bit on both. Either way, I think he will end up in love with the Axiom and the 60 degree throw.

Curtis website shows SA Axion with DLC bolt and 20 MOA rail for $1095. An Atlas was a bit more than that but looks like kelly's lowered the price? I see them for $995 now.

 

[300_whisper]

Curtis website shows SA Axion with DLC bolt and 20 MOA rail for $1095. An Atlas was a bit more than that but looks like kelly's lowered the price? I see them for $995 now.

Over in LRH, there was a thread started by chase curtis about how they were going to produce a $750 custom action. What happened to the price? Might as well go get a Stiller or the Atlas at that price.

 

[MDM]

60 degree throw, 3 lugs, 3 raceways are near impossible to bind, roller bearing tipped cocking piece for smooth bolt lift, near unbreakable bolt stop (no stress on a roll pin). Lots of things a standard 700 clone does not have, and they are still adding small tweaks here and there to make them even better.

I think the $750 price was quite ambitious. There is probably a reason there aren't any custom actions out there at that price. I also get that there will be skepticism with anything new, but I really think the Axiom will catch on in the coming months and through the next PRS season. The Vector is gonna have some additional cool, and functional features as well I hear.

 

[Clucknmoan]

The other thing I have come to really like is the ability to remove the firing pin with no tools at all. Just push and twist.

 

[300_whisper]

Not knocking their product at all. I know Joel’s stocks are absolute works of art. I know they wouldn’t let anything slip by if subpar. I was frustrated bc the thread started by chase Curtis was about a custom action at an affordable price. Hopefully, they’ll turn up at some PRS shoots.

 

[Judd]

There is no way I'd keep it. I'm not slamming Curtis Customs but it's not what you ordered. I'd never be happy with it because it's not what I ordered and I'd have a bad taste in my mouth over the whole deal. Matter of fact, I've not heard your whole story but I'd probably just ask for a refund...I'm a huge fan of communication and it sounds like you got none.

At least that's how I am.

 

[jpretle]

I just got my Axiom from my FFL. I have to say I am impressed, as was my FFL guy. Fit and finish is simply outstanding. Bolt runs extremely smooth. Can't wait to get it running.
Having dealt w/ Joel Russo in the past, I experienced his dedication to customer service and see no reason that won't continue.
Can't see why the receivers wouldn't have a dedicated following.