Savage Axis XP Gen II .22-250 Rem 22″ 4rd w/ 3-9×40
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory boresighted 3-9×40 scope saves 1-2 hours of zeroing setup time.
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 6 lbs pull weight for a personalized break.
- 4-round detachable magazine enables faster reloads than a fixed internal magazine.
- 7.6 lb total weight balances well for offhand shooting at varmint ranges.
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks cheek riser adjustment — requires a $30-$60 aftermarket kit for perfect weld.
- Weaver-style scope base limits modern optic mounting options vs. a Picatinny rail.
- No thread protector or muzzle device included — a suppressor-ready cap costs an extra $15-$30.
- Magazine release is stiff from the factory — requires about 100 cycles to smooth out.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Savage Axis XP Gen II .22-250 Remington? It's a bolt-action varmint rifle package configured for out-of-the-box accuracy, featuring a 22-inch button-rifled barrel and a factory-mounted 3-9×40 optic that arrives boresighted from Savage. This chambering in .22-250 Remington delivers flat trajectories ideal for long-range pest control, while the user-adjustable AccuTrigger provides a crisp, predictable break that shooters can tune from approximately 2.5 to 6 pounds of pull weight. The synthetic sporter stock and a total weight of 7.6 pounds make it a practical tool for extended periods of carry and shooting.
What is the Savage Axis XP Gen II used for?
This rifle is designed for varmint hunting and predator control at extended ranges, where the .22-250 Remington's high velocity provides minimal bullet drop. Its 22-inch barrel optimizes the cartridge's powder burn for velocities around 3,700 fps with a 55-grain bullet, making it effective on targets like prairie dogs and coyotes out to 400 yards. The factory-included 3-9×40 scope covers the magnification needs for these shots, and the durable synthetic stock resists weather conditions better than wood during all-day hunts in the field.
How does the Savage Axis XP Gen II compare to the Stevens 334?
The Savage Axis XP Gen II offers a more complete ready-to-fire package than the bare rifle Stevens 334 in .308 Win, which requires a separate scope purchase and mounting. The Stevens 334 employs a simpler, non-adjustable trigger system, while the Savage's AccuTrigger allows for precise weight adjustment between approximately 2.5 to 6 pounds of pull to match a shooter's preference. For a hunter who wants to unbox a rifle and head to the range without additional gunsmithing steps, the Savage package is the better choice, despite its slightly higher weight of 7.6 pounds versus the 334's roughly 6.5 pounds.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.6 pounds and has an overall length of 42.5 inches from buttstock to muzzle. The 22-inch barrel contributes significantly to this length, while its synthetic stock has a length of pull of 13.75 inches, which is standard for adult shooters. These dimensions make it a full-sized rifle that requires careful consideration for transport in a standard 42-inch rifle case, and the weight is noticeable during all-day stalks compared to more compact platforms.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not a suitable choice for a first-time shooter seeking a low-recoil introductory firearm, as the .22-250 produces significant muzzle blast and noise. It's also a poor fit for tactical applications or competitive environments where rapid follow-up shots are required, due to its manual bolt-action cycle. For the shooter who primarily wants a home-defense rifle or a close-quarters brush gun, a shorter-barreled option like a lever-action in .30-30 or a semi-automatic platform would be more appropriate.
What's in the box?
The box includes the Savage Axis XP Gen II rifle with its 4-round detachable polymer magazine, the factory-mounted and boresighted 3-9×40mm scope with capped turrets, a set of Weaver-style scope rings, and the necessary Allen wrenches for scope and trigger adjustment. There is no separate bipod, sling, or additional magazines included, which is standard for this price point. You will need to purchase ammunition and a suitable rifle case separately for immediate use.
Is the Savage Axis XP Gen II worth it at $438.99?
At $438.99, this rifle represents significant value for a hunter who needs an accurate, ready-to-shoot varmint rifle without the $200-$400 additional investment in optics and mounting. The combination of a proven, adjustable trigger system, a consistently accurate button-rifled barrel, and a functional optic saves the buyer 2-3 hours of gunsmithing time and reduces initial setup frustration. For a new shooter or a seasoned hunter looking for a dedicated predator rifle, this package eliminates guesswork and provides immediate capability, justifying the price versus buying components separately.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320025 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32002 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .22-250 Remington |
| capacity | 4 |
| color | Black |
| length | 42.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis XP |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 10.0 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the scope mount compatible with a Picatinny rail?
- No, the included scope rings are for a Weaver-style base, which is permanently attached to the receiver. The Savage factory base uses a standard 3/8-inch dovetail pattern. If you want to mount a Picatinny-specific optic, you would need to replace the factory base with an aftermarket Picatinny rail, which typically costs $25-$45 and requires proper torque application to 20-25 inch-pounds.
- Does this rifle fit in a standard 42-inch rifle case?
- Yes, but with very little clearance. The overall length of the rifle is 42.5 inches, meaning it will fit diagonally or in a case that compresses the foam slightly. For better protection, I recommend a hard case with an interior length of at least 44 inches, such as those from Plano or Pelican. Transporting it in a 42-inch soft case will likely compress the muzzle end.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard processing and ground shipping through Ironclad Armory typically takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items once your FFL documentation is verified and payment clears. Transit time varies by carrier and destination, but plan on 5-10 total business days from order to your dealer's receipt. We ship via FedEx or UPS Ground with adult signature required.
- Can I return it if the scope doesn't hold zero?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day function and accuracy guarantee from the date your FFL receives the firearm. If the factory-mounted scope fails to hold zero after proper mounting and a break-in period of 20-40 rounds, contact our support team for an RMA. The rifle must be returned to us unfired beyond that break-in period, in its original packaging, with all accessories.
- Does this work with aftermarket Savage Axis magazines?
- It is compatible with most aftermarket 4-round magazines designed for the Savage Axis Gen II series in .22-250 Remington. However, avoid magazines chambered for different short-action cartridges like .223 Remington, as the feed lip geometry differs. Magazines from reputable manufacturers like Magpul for the Savage Axis typically retail for $25-$35 and function reliably.