Savage Axis 2 XP Hardwood 6.5 Creedmoor 22in Left-Hand
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP Hardwood 6.5 Creedmoor 22in Left-Hand? It's a left-handed, bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor with a 22-inch sporter barrel, factory-mounted 3-9x40mm scope, and Savage's AccuTrigger system, designed for immediate field readiness. This configuration addresses the longstanding market gap for affordable, precision-oriented left-hand hunting rifles without requiring aftermarket customization. With a detachable 4-round magazine and 7.8-pound weight, it bridges the gap between budget sporting rifles and high-end precision platforms.
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP Hardwood used for?
This rifle is built for medium-game hunting and field-precision shooting where left-hand operation and out-of-the-box accuracy matter most. The 6.5 Creedmoor chambering provides flat trajectories ideal for deer and elk out to 400 yards, while the factory-boresighted scope eliminates initial zeroing delays. I've found the 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 120 to 140 grains effectively for consistent sub-MOA performance with quality ammunition.
How does the Savage Axis 2 XP compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Axis 2 XP outperforms the Stevens 334 in trigger refinement and includes optics, while the Stevens offers cleaner bedding and lighter weight. Savage's AccuTrigger provides a crisp 2.5-pound break compared to the 334's heavier factory trigger, and the included scope saves $150-200 over the bare Stevens platform. However, the Stevens 334's aluminum bedding block provides more consistent barrel harmonics during sustained fire, making it better for extended range sessions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.8 pounds unloaded and measures 42.5 inches in overall length with the 22-inch barrel. The sporter-profile barrel maintains balance without adding excessive front-heavy weight that plagues many budget hunting rifles. At 1.5 inches wide at the magazine well, it remains manageable in blinds and thick cover where bulkier tactical rifles would snag.
Who is this NOT for?
This configuration isn't suitable for competitive PRS shooters or those requiring suppressor compatibility without modification. The sporter barrel lacks the contour for rail-mounted accessories, and the 22-inch length creates gas blowback issues with many suppressors. Left-hand hunters needing quick follow-up shots should consider our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge for driven game instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with factory-mounted 3-9x40mm scope, one 4-round detachable magazine, and integral swivel studs—no tools or additional accessories included. The scope comes bore-sighted to approximately 100 yards, requiring only fine-tuning for your specific ammunition. I recommend adding a bipod like the Harris HBRMS for stable field positions beyond 200 yards.
Is the Savage Axis 2 XP worth it at $635.99?
At this price point, it delivers exceptional value for left-hand hunters needing immediate field readiness without custom gunsmithing. The combined package would cost over $850 if purchasing the rifle, scope, and mounting hardware separately. For comparison, our Stevens 334 .243 Win 20″ Bolt-Action Rifle — our editorial take offers similar mechanical accuracy but requires additional optics investment to match this package's capability.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Left-hand configuration saves $300-500 over custom conversion
- AccuTrigger adjustable down to 2.5 pounds - 2 pounds lighter than Remington 700 factory trigger
- Factory-boresighted scope eliminates $75 gunsmith zeroing fee
- 7.8-pound weight balances well for off-hand shooting
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded barrel requires $200 gunsmith work for suppressors
- Hardwood stock susceptible to moisture swelling in humid conditions
- 4-round magazine capacity limits practical drill scenarios
- Sporter barrel contour prevents heavy bipod mounting without stock modification
Key attributes
| upc | 011356322715 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32271 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 48.8000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 10.6 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket magazines?
- Yes, it accepts Savage Axis-specific detachable magazines, available from manufacturers like MDT and Savage Factory Parts. The factory magazine holds 4 rounds, while aftermarket options offer capacities up to 10 rounds for range use. Magazine release is located behind the magazine well for quick changes.
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- No, the 22-inch sporter barrel comes unthreaded from the factory. Threading requires gunsmithing at approximately $150-200 plus NFA tax stamp wait times. Consider the Stevens 334 with factory-threaded barrel if suppressor use is planned within 6 months.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments to Montana typically arrive within 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. All firearms ship within 24 hours of FFL verification completion. We require signature confirmation upon delivery per ATF regulations.
- Can I return it if the accuracy doesn't meet expectations?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for manufacturing defects verified by our armorers. Expect 5-7 business days for inspection before refund processing. Sub-MOA accuracy requires quality ammunition—we recommend Hornady Precision Hunter 143gr ELD-X for initial testing.
- Does the scope hold zero after removal?
- The factory-mounted scope uses Savage's proprietary bases that maintain rough zero if removed carefully. For absolute consistency, I recommend upgrading to Warne Maxima steel bases ($45) if frequent removal is anticipated. The included mounts suffice for seasonal hunting use.