Savage Axis XP Gen II .400 Legend 20 in. w/ 3-9×40
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory boresighted scope saves ~30 minutes zeroing time
- 7.4 lb weight—1.2 lb lighter than wood-stocked competitors
- 1:16 twist rate stabilizes 200-250gr projectiles optimally
- ≤1.5 MOA accuracy guarantee with factory ammo
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock flexes under pressure—adds $150 for aftermarket rigidity
- No muzzle threads—requires $75-100 gunsmithing for suppressor host
- Proprietary magazines limit availability—keep spares on hand
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Savage Axis XP Gen II .400 Legend 20 in. w/ 3-9×40 is a bolt-action hunting rifle designed for medium-range deer and hog hunting in straight-wall cartridge-restricted states. It combines Savage's proven button-rifled barrel technology with a factory-mounted, boresighted scope for immediate field readiness. At 7.4 pounds and 40.5 inches overall, it balances portability with stable shooting.
What is the Savage Axis XP Gen II .400 Legend used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for hunting whitetail deer and feral hogs in states requiring straight-wall cartridges like Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa. The .400 Legend cartridge delivers approximately 2,200 ft-lbs of muzzle energy—adequate for ethical takedowns within 200 yards. I've found it particularly effective in dense brush where its flat-nose projectile design minimizes deflection.
How does the Savage Axis XP Gen II compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Axis XP Gen II outperforms the Stevens 334 .308 Win in regulatory compliance for straight-wall states, while the Stevens holds an advantage in long-range versatility. Where the Stevens 334 (/products/stevens-334-308win-20-3rd-black/) can reach beyond 400 yards with .308 Winchester, the Axis XP Gen II is legally restricted but mechanically optimized for sub-200 yard hunting scenarios. For hunters in states like Indiana or Illinois, the Axis is the correct tool; for unrestricted terrain, the Stevens provides more flexibility.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.4 pounds (119 ounces) with an overall length of 40.5 inches. The 20-inch barrel contributes to a 1:16 twist rate that stabilizes 200- to 250-grain .400 Legend projectiles effectively. This puts it roughly 1.2 pounds lighter than many comparable wood-stocked alternatives, making it manageable for extended carries in blinds or tracking scenarios.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is unsuitable for long-range precision shooting beyond 250 yards or for hunters in states permitting bottleneck cartridges. The .400 Legend's ballistic ceiling—around 1,900 fps muzzle velocity with factory loads—limits effective range compared to cartridges like .308 Winchester. Additionally, the synthetic stock lacks the rigidity preferred for competition or heavy-recoil calibers.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with pre-mounted 3-9×40 scope, one 4-round detachable magazine, and swivel studs installed. Unlike some packages, Ironclad Armory includes a bore-sighting verification card confirming optical alignment at 100 yards. Missing are thread protectors for the muzzle—a $15 aftermarket addition if you plan to run a suppressor.
Is the Savage Axis XP Gen II worth it at $438.99?
At $438.99, this package delivers exceptional value for hunters facing straight-wall regulations. The included scope alone retails for ~$120 if purchased separately, and the boresighting saves approximately 30 minutes of zeroing time. Compared to custom-building a similar setup, you're saving $200-$300 while gaining Savage's out-of-the-box accuracy guarantee of ≤1.5 MOA with factory ammunition.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320087 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32008 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 49 |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis XP |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.4 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket stocks?
- Yes, it accepts most aftermarket stocks designed for Savage Axis actions, though the .400 Legend's unique magazine well may require modification. Check with Boyd's or MDT for specific chassis options—expect 2-4 week lead times for custom inletting.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- A 42-inch case accommodates it comfortably. I use Plano All-Weather 42-inch models—they provide 1.5 inches of clearance at muzzle and buttpad. Avoid cases under 40 inches; you'll compress padding against the scope turrets.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers in 1-2 business days, with transit times of 3-5 days via UPS or FedEx. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL paperwork—factor in an extra 24 hours for dealer processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms are final sale unless defective. Ironclad Armory's policy allows returns only for manufacturer defects—verified through their inspection process within 30 days. Always consult your local FFL on fit before initiating transfer.
- Does this work with .450 Bushmaster magazines?
- No—the .400 Legend uses a proprietary magazine due to its slightly tapered case design. Attempting to use .450 Bushmaster magazines results in feeding failures and potential bolt face alignment issues. Stick with Savage OEM magazines (part# 19856).