AXMC vs DTA

[Covertnoob5]

Hey guys, so I've currently got a DTA that I've been shooting in a few calibers. I really like the switch caliber capabilities and don't want to lose that. Having said that, I've had an AI itch for awhile and I'm thinking about scratching it. The problem is I'd have to sell my DTA to make it happen. Main use for the rifle would be range and competition, with some hunting. Yes I'm aware it's pretty heavy.
So my question for you all is, what are the pros and cons I might experience if I make the switch? Has anyone made this move and or the reverse and what did you experience?

Thanks!


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[White Mamba]

Ill let you know in a week

 

[Covertnoob5]

Ill let you know in a week

You're switching from a DTA to an axmc?


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[diverdon]

I have an AXMC, it is a good rifle and I like the trigger. Still the DTA's are also good rifles. What exactly is this itch you feel, are you looking for more accuracy, different ergonomics, or different aesthetics?

 

[dinmax82]

I switched almost 2 years ago. Never looking back.

Cheaper, quicker and more options gunsmiths to make barrels.

Hated the fit/finish on my DTA. Magazine sucked.

I've taken my 20" 300WM hunting, it's a heavy beast. I don't compete. Quick adjustments on stock is nice though.

Customer service is good, sometimes slow on parts. Mile High is great to work with if needed.

 

[Conrad]

I don't have an AI but I do have a dedicated match rifle and a DT SRS A1. I think the DT is a better hunting rifle in terms of weight and obviously length compared to the AXMC. DT weak point is mags but it sounds like the 10 rounders are ironed out; you just have to practice with that different mag change and make it muscle memory. My mags polished right up and are smooth now. I think some rifles are easier to swap mags faster than on the DT, but are you such good shot that the last bit of points you need are due to mag changes? Overall ergonomics and fit of the DT is very comfy for me and my other rifle is extremely adjustable. I find it pretty nice to move around on barricades (in practice) compared to my traditional rifle that is more front heavy. Everything else is personal preference. They are both very accurate with good triggers.

Have you run your DT in a competition yet? I have read that the AI team runs short action AXs to save weight over the big AXMC.

 

[Covertnoob5]

I have an AXMC, it is a good rifle and I like the trigger. Still the DTA's are also good rifles. What exactly is this itch you feel, are you looking for more accuracy, different ergonomics, or different aesthetics?

No my DTA is as accurate as any rifle I've ever had. I think the itch is a combination of wanting to try an AI as well as going back to a more traditional style rifle and the ergos. I've found it a little difficult to shoot weak side with my DTA, it definitely isn't comfortable. Plus I've always much much much preferred a 2 stage trigger. The DTA is excellent on the trigger but not my preference.


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[Covertnoob5]

I switched almost 2 years ago. Never looking back.

Cheaper, quicker and more options gunsmiths to make barrels.

Hated the fit/finish on my DTA. Magazine sucked.

I've taken my 20" 300WM hunting, it's a heavy beast. I don't compete. Quick adjustments on stock is nice though.

Customer service is good, sometimes slow on parts. Mile High is great to work with if needed.

For the barrels, what is a ballpark on price? I saw Eurooptic has barrels for about $800. Can they be found cheaper from a smith? And who would be a good one? Thanks


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[Covertnoob5]

I don't have an AI but I do have a dedicated match rifle and a DT SRS A1. I think the DT is a better hunting rifle in terms of weight and obviously length compared to the AXMC. DT weak point is mags but it sounds like the 10 rounders are ironed out; you just have to practice with that different mag change and make it muscle memory. My mags polished right up and are smooth now. I think some rifles are easier to swap mags faster than on the DT, but are you such good shot that the last bit of points you need are due to mag changes? Overall ergonomics and fit of the DT is very comfy for me and my other rifle is extremely adjustable. I find it pretty nice to move around on barricades (in practice) compared to my traditional rifle that is more front heavy. Everything else is personal preference. They are both very accurate with good triggers.

Have you run your DT in a competition yet? I have read that the AI team runs short action AXs to save weight over the big AXMC.

I don't have any 10 round mags, but I believe they are pretty available at this point. I've run it in local stuff, nothing big like PRS but I want to get to a PRS match at some point.
I've read the same thing about the AI team guys, only reason I want the LA is because I would hunt with a 300WM and compete with a 6.5.


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[Conrad]

Good point on weak side shooting. Tried that the other day with DT and wasn't that fun.

 

[White Mamba]

You're switching from a DTA to an axmc?


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

Not so much switching but adding the AXMC. I enjoy shooting the DTA long range, but the cheaper barrels will be a nice addition with the AX

 

[dinmax82]

For the barrels, what is a ballpark on price? I saw Eurooptic has barrels for about $800. Can they be found cheaper from a smith? And who would be a good one? Thanks


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

Depends on who you go through and their are too many good smiths to really name. TS Customs and Mile High charges about 1k for threaded, cerakote and etc.

I think my Stuteville I got from Euro Optic non-threaded was about $700 unthreaded. Migh High has some barrels starting at $550 still.

 

[FingerBlaster]

My buddy has an AX that i've shot a bit. As others have said the magazines on the AX are night and day better. The trigger on the AX is also better. His rifle is also much larger than mine. At the end of the day i still like the DT despite those short comings. to me the size of the packages makes up for it, and i'm looking forward to trying out the 10 round mags, but good lord are they pricey.

 

[Mute]

As someone who's owned both, I'd say you wouldn't be sorry with going to the AXMC, but get a good idea of your expectations. Are there some shortcomings on the DTA that you feel the AXMC will handle better? Like you, I didn't care for the DTA for weak-side (left handed) shooting. I also prefer the bolt throw on a non-bullpup bolt rifle. In addition, I much prefer the stock adjustability of the AXMC stock. I did like the DTA's overall balance and shorter OAL though.

 

[Sonic Crack]

The AXMC barrels are cheaper but you would have to be into it about 6 barrels before It started being cheaper than a DT.

 

[BDunn]

I've had a DT for about 4 years now. Very accurate and easy to shoot. I just posted pics of my AX that came in yesterday in the AI photo thread. As I say in that thread, my most recent trip to Rifles Only confirmed what for me are limitations of the DT platform. I had taken it there for another course about 2 years go, and left less than satisfied with what I could do with it. Magazine changes and support side shooting were two of the bigger issues. I figured I would use it and practice on my own and then when I went back, I'd see if I had improved. I just ended up frustrated. Again, the rifle is very accurate. 1000 yd hits were no problem during the Precision Rifle 1&2 combo course.

I've only been able to dry fire the AI (a couple of hundred times, LOL), and I am very impressed with the trigger. I'll take it out tomorrow to confirm zero and do some short range stuff/dot drills with it.

Keep in mind that there is a short action (.308) AXMC and a long action for .300 WM and .338. You cannot use a .300 WM or .338 barrel/action in the short action (.308) platform.

 

[trophyhunter]

Hey guys, so I've currently got a DTA that I've been shooting in a few calibers. I really like the switch caliber capabilities and don't want to lose that. Having said that, I've had an AI itch for awhile and I'm thinking about scratching it. The problem is I'd have to sell my DTA to make it happen. Main use for the rifle would be range and competition, with some hunting. Yes I'm aware it's pretty heavy.
So my question for you all is, what are the pros and cons I might experience if I make the switch? Has anyone made this move and or the reverse and what did you experience?

Thanks!


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

I had an DT about as long as I've had an AX but the legacy model. Then I sold the AX an jumped into the AXMC....never remember the DT since then and eventually ended up selling it. Overall the platform is priceyer but it is a better platform in my opinion and mags were way smoother. Trigger is great, not a benchrest by any means but wasn't meant to be. It's never failed. Bolt throw is smooth as glass, even with the conversion to short action. I have the 300wm and jumped into 6Creed and then bought a 308 for range time. Weak hand shooting is way easier on a traditional then a bullpup. Actually the bullpup was always awkward to me. As for weight, well I can sum it up as Jacob from Rifles Only did when I said would it be better to shoot a lighter rifle for the PRS matches.....he said "get a gym membership". My rig weighs in at 19lbs with Beast and Ultra9 it's not lite by any means, but I've gotten use to it. I compete in local stuff with usually finishing in top 10 but I know it's not my rifle holding me back. Most of the shooters shoot an AT which is 1/2lb heavier.

Bottom line it comes down to preference and style. I loved the look of the DTA....but love the fit function and comfort of the AXMC.


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[Covertnoob5]

I had an DT about as long as I've had an AX but the legacy model. Then I sold the AX an jumped into the AXMC....never remember the DT since then and eventually ended up selling it. Overall the platform is priceyer but it is a better platform in my opinion and mags were way smoother. Trigger is great, not a benchrest by any means but wasn't meant to be. It's never failed. Bolt throw is smooth as glass, even with the conversion to short action. I have the 300wm and jumped into 6Creed and then bought a 308 for range time. Weak hand shooting is way easier on a traditional then a bullpup. Actually the bullpup was always awkward to me. As for weight, well I can sum it up as Jacob from Rifles Only did when I said would it be better to shoot a lighter rifle for the PRS matches.....he said "get a gym membership". My rig weighs in at 19lbs with Beast and Ultra9 it's not lite by any means, but I've gotten use to it. I compete in local stuff with usually finishing in top 10 but I know it's not my rifle holding me back. Most of the shooters shoot an AT which is 1/2lb heavier.

Bottom line it comes down to preference and style. I loved the look of the DTA....but love the fit function and comfort of the AXMC.


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Yea I think the smoothness and ability to shoot off hand interests me a lot. I shoot right handed, but I'm left eye dominant, so being able to shoot on both sides comfortably I think would be something I would enjoy a lot. I also much prefer 2 stage triggers, that's what I have on all my other guns. I've gotten used to the DTA trigger at this point, but I still always prefer a 2 stage.


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[Covertnoob5]

I've had a DT for about 4 years now. Very accurate and easy to shoot. I just posted pics of my AX that came in yesterday in the AI photo thread. As I say in that thread, my most recent trip to Rifles Only confirmed what for me are limitations of the DT platform. I had taken it there for another course about 2 years go, and left less than satisfied with what I could do with it. Magazine changes and support side shooting were two of the bigger issues. I figured I would use it and practice on my own and then when I went back, I'd see if I had improved. I just ended up frustrated. Again, the rifle is very accurate. 1000 yd hits were no problem during the Precision Rifle 1&2 combo course.

I've only been able to dry fire the AI (a couple of hundred times, LOL), and I am very impressed with the trigger. I'll take it out tomorrow to confirm zero and do some short range stuff/dot drills with it.

Keep in mind that there is a short action (.308) AXMC and a long action for .300 WM and .338. You cannot use a .300 WM or .338 barrel/action in the short action (.308) platform.

Other than off hand shooting and mag changes did you notice any other short comings while at the course? Yes I'm aware of the different versions. I'd be getting the AXMC not the AX308 because I'd run 300WM, .308, and 6.5 creed.


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[trophyhunter]

None, the rifle feeds flawlessly through the mag conversion to 6creed. The mag changes are smooth and never had an issue. An added bonus is you can run the AT mags also, but not vice versa. Return to 0 is perfect, I set it for my 6creed and know 308 is .4mil up & .6mil left. 300wm is .3up & .4left, it's predictable every barrel swap. I haven't had an issue at any of the matches I've shot including the Bushnell Brawl. My only shooting (but it's my biggest crutch) is sitting off hand...the rifle is long and weighs on you after 20-30secs, but I'm sure my technique is lacking in many areas. Other then that it's my #1 goto rifle. I sold a few others cause they just started to rust & collect dust. This thing will out shoot and do everything any other rifle can. And I have yet to have 1 single issue. Ask me how many Savages & R700 I've seen fail at the matches...at least 1 ever match.
Never an AI
And once you have the mag adapter & bolt body the barrels are relatively inexpensive compared to DTA and caliber choices is limitless.....all except that 223 !!!'


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[pizfiz]

I have a DT and an AT. Completely different animals and I like them both for different reasons. I have ran both of them in PRS style comps and I prefer the AI for the situations presented in that arena. Trigger is good and mag changes as described previously. BUT, every barrel that I have put into my DT is dead nuts and I believe the design of the DT creates a very accurate rifle.

 

[BDunn]

Other than off hand shooting and mag changes did you notice any other short comings while at the course? Yes I'm aware of the different versions. I'd be getting the AXMC not the AX308 because I'd run 300WM, .308, and 6.5 creed.


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

Some of the issues may be unique to the setup of RO. I've run the Mousetrap with different rifles, and the DT ergonomics for me made it more difficult. The overall shorter length was a plus, but again, the mag changes, especially in close confines combined with alternate positions were trouble. Rooftop angle shots were a problem for me as well, whereas doing it with a standard bolt rifle or gas gun usually is not.

Other people may well not have these issues. I just couldn't get it to work as well as I would have liked. I still love the gun. As you know, it is very accurate, and for shooting strong side from prone or kneeling with sling support, I really like it.

 

[Covertnoob5]

Thanks for all the opinions guys! I think I may make the switch. If I don't like it I guess I could always sell the AXMC and get back into a DTA with some cash left over.


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[Covertnoob5]

None, the rifle feeds flawlessly through the mag conversion to 6creed. The mag changes are smooth and never had an issue. An added bonus is you can run the AT mags also, but not vice versa. Return to 0 is perfect, I set it for my 6creed and know 308 is .4mil up & .6mil left. 300wm is .3up & .4left, it's predictable every barrel swap. I haven't had an issue at any of the matches I've shot including the Bushnell Brawl. My only shooting (but it's my biggest crutch) is sitting off hand...the rifle is long and weighs on you after 20-30secs, but I'm sure my technique is lacking in many areas. Other then that it's my #1 goto rifle. I sold a few others cause they just started to rust & collect dust. This thing will out shoot and do everything any other rifle can. And I have yet to have 1 single issue. Ask me how many Savages & R700 I've seen fail at the matches...at least 1 ever match.
Never an AI
And once you have the mag adapter & bolt body the barrels are relatively inexpensive compared to DTA and caliber choices is limitless.....all except that 223 !!!'


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Yea I'm thinking about running it with all 20" barrels and since I can't have a suppressor in CA I don't think it'll be too front heavy? And if I strap on a razor gen 2 then it'll bring the weight back a little? Or maybe just run the AMG instead so save a little weight?


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.

 

[craigos]

i just bought both ... have 3-4 barrels for each ... you only live once.

 

[Covertnoob5]

i just bought both ... have 3-4 barrels for each ... you only live once.

Any feelings of pros and cons of each?


Covert is as Covert does.

Plenty of good feedback on the scout site.