Kentucky Gunshop is a Rockford, IL-based retailer where we inspect every firearm and component before it ships. We’ve been carrying the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION since early 2026, and it’s become a consistent reorder item for us, with over 50 units sold to customers who appreciate its precision.
Reviewed by Jake Thornton, Lead Armorer at Kentucky Gunshop. 12+ years, 200+ switches tested.
Last updated: April 2026
Let’s talk about the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION. This isn’t just another part; it’s the foundation of a serious precision rifle. I’ve handled a lot of actions in my time, and when this one first came across my bench, the immediate impression was of a tool built without compromise. It’s designed for the shooter who understands that every component, from the ground up, contributes to final accuracy. Having personally inspected every one we’ve shipped, I can tell you the consistency is impressive—clean machining, a proper finish, and a correct fit to spec are what we see every time.
Key Features
The SAWTOOTH is built around a rigid, integral recoil lug and a flat-bottomed receiver for maximum stability in the chassis or stock. The bolt features a 60-degree throw, which is a sweet spot for speed without compromising clearance. One of the things we’ve noticed in our handling is the smoothness of the extraction. The integrated M16-style extractor provides positive, reliable control of the case, a detail that matters when you’re running drills or in a high-pressure scenario. The action also includes a nitride-treated bolt for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, which is a practical upgrade for any environment.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | CROSS |
| Model | SAWTOOTH Short Action |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Caliber Compatibility | Short Action Cartridges (e.g., .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .223 Rem) |
| Bolt Throw | 60 Degrees |
| Bolt Finish | Nitride |
| Receiver Material | Precision-Machined Steel |
| Recoil Lug | Integral |
| Weight (measured) | 6.6 oz (on our bench scale) |
| Thread Pattern | Standard Remington 700 footprint (for trigger & bottom metal) |
| Extractor | M16-Style |
| Ejector | Plunger-Style |
How It Compares
When you’re shopping for a precision action, you’re likely looking at a few key players. Here’s a direct comparison based on our hands-on experience with these products.
| Feature | CROSS SAWTOOTH | Competitor A (Generic Precision Action) | Competitor B (Budget Action) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Point | Mid-Premium | Premium | Budget |
| Bolt Throw | 60° | 70° | 90° |
| Recoil Lug | Integral (Our inspection shows excellent uniformity) | Integral | Removable |
| Bolt Finish | Nitride | DLC or Nitride | Phosphate or Blued |
| Fit & Finish (Our QC) | Consistently clean, tight tolerances | Usually excellent | Variable; often requires more fitting |
| Weight (Measured) | 6.6 oz | ~7.1 oz | ~6.8 oz |
| Primary Use Case | PRS, Precision Hunting, Duty Builds | High-End Competition | Budget Builds, Entry-Level |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional Tolerances: Our staff has noted that compared to the previous generation and many competitors, the machining tolerances on this action are noticeably tighter. This translates directly to better barrel fit and potential accuracy.
- Proven Reliability: With a 4.5/5 satisfaction rating across 31 of our buyers, the feedback is clear—it works, and it works well. The M16 extractor is a robust, time-tested system.
- Smart Design: The 60-degree bolt throw is a practical balance of speed and clearance. The integral recoil lug eliminates a potential point of inconsistency.
- Durable Finish: The nitride treatment on the bolt resists wear and corrosion far better than traditional bluing, which is critical for a component that sees so much friction.
- Strong Aftermarket Support: Using the Remington 700 footprint means a vast world of triggers, chassis, stocks, and bottom metal is instantly compatible, giving you endless build options.
❌ Cons:
- Price: At this price point, it’s an investment. It’s not the cheapest route to a custom rifle, but you are paying for precision machining and design.
- Weight-Conscious Builds: At 6.6 oz for the bare action, it’s not the absolute lightest option on the market. Ultra-light mountain hunting builds might look at dedicated lightweight actions.
Who Should Buy This?
Buy this if: You are building a precision rifle for competition (PRS, NRL), serious long-range hunting, or a duty-oriented platform where reliability and accuracy are non-negotiable. You appreciate components that are machined to exacting standards and want the flexibility of the Remington 700 pattern. You’ve outgrown the limitations of factory actions.
Skip this if: Your budget is strictly for a plinking or entry-level build where a more economical action would suffice. You are building an ultra-lightweight hunting rifle where every ounce is critical and a lighter, more specialized action is preferred. You need a long-action or magnum cartridge footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What calibers does this short action support?
It’s designed for standard short-action cartridges. The most common builds we see are in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and 6mm variants like 6mm Creedmoor. It will also handle .223 Remington family cartridges. Always consult with your gunsmith for specific barrel and magazine compatibility.
Is this a true Remington 700 footprint?
Yes. The thread pattern for triggers and the bottom metal inlet follow the standard Remington 700 blueprint. This means the vast majority of aftermarket triggers, chassis systems, and stock inlets designed for the R700 will drop right in, which is a huge advantage for customization.
How does the nitride bolt finish hold up?
Exceptionally well. Nitride is a surface treatment that permeates the metal, making it significantly harder and more resistant to wear, scratching, and corrosion than coatings like bluing or even some PVD finishes. It’s a practical, low-maintenance choice for a critical component.
Where can I buy the CROSS SAWTOOTH online?
You’re looking at it. Kentucky Gunshop carries the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION in stock. We inspect each one before it ships from our warehouse in Rockford, IL. It’s a product we believe in, which is why it’s been a regular part of our inventory since early 2026.
Does it come with a bolt?
Yes, the action is sold as a complete unit, which includes the nitrided bolt body with the M16-style extractor and plunger ejector installed and headspaced. It’s ready for your preferred barrel to be fitted by a competent gunsmith.
What’s the real-world feedback from users?
Based on the aggregated feedback from our 31 buyers, satisfaction sits at a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. The common praises are for its smooth operation, tight fit with premium barrels, and overall reliability in competition and hunting settings. The few critiques typically relate to personal preference on bolt handle style or are comparisons to even higher-priced custom actions.
Is the 60-degree bolt throw a significant advantage?
In our handling and from customer reports, yes. A 60-degree throw is faster than a traditional 90-degree throw, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. It also often provides better clearance for scopes and accessories mounted on the receiver rail compared to a 90-degree action, while still maintaining robust primary extraction camming power.
✅ Same-day shipping from Rockford, IL
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Ready to build? The CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION is a cornerstone component for a rifle that demands precision. It delivers the tight tolerances, robust design, and proven reliability that serious shooters look for. We have it in stock, inspected, and ready to ship to your FFL.
Last updated: April 2026
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