Looks like the last Savage Axis II I bought in 270 Win?
I too have noticed the Axis barrels are... well not quality. I bought my son an Axis with the hopes we could build a nice rifle out of it akin to the model 10 and 110 makeover. We half planned on rebarreling anyway, but I expected him to be able to get to the range at least some and enjoy it. Alas, nope. First 5-10 rounds group ok, after that it opens up real bad and real quick. And this is letting the barrel cool, so it’s not inaccuracy due to heat build up or warping it’s due to fouling build up. After 50 rounds the barrel is fouled terribly. Much like I bet this S&W would be.
I know this thread is old but it is very informative. Thanks for documenting your journey OP. FWIW, I agree that both Ruger and S&W cater more to snub-nose concealed markets these days. Everyone seems to love their LCRs, however I fondled a new SBH at a gun show a couple years ago and was really out off by fit and finish. It reminded me of a heritage rough rider... probably very functional but quite crude.