Savage Axis 2 .400 Legend 20-inch Left-Hand Rifle
About this product
The Savage Axis 2 .400 Legend 20-inch Left-Hand Rifle is a purpose-built bolt-action platform designed for hunters and shooters requiring left-hand operation in a straight-wall cartridge compliant with specific state regulations. Chambered in .400 Legend, this rifle delivers consistent performance with factory ammunition while maintaining a field-ready weight of 6.4 pounds. Its 20-inch sporter contour barrel and synthetic stock provide balance and durability in varied conditions.
What is the Savage Axis 2 .400 Legend used for?
This rifle is optimized for hunting medium to large game in states mandating straight-wall cartridges, delivering approximately 2,100 fps muzzle velocity with 215-grain factory loads. The left-hand bolt configuration reduces ejection port interference for southpaw shooters, while the 4+1 capacity ensures practical engagement without excessive weight. I've found it effective for whitetail within 200 yards where regulations prohibit bottlenecked rounds.
How does the Savage Axis 2 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Axis 2 outperforms the Stevens 334 in trigger adjustability, featuring Savage's AccuTrigger system adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds versus the Stevens' fixed 4-pound pull. However, the Stevens 334 maintains a slight weight advantage at 6.1 pounds compared to the Axis 2's 6.4 pounds, making it marginally easier to carry during extended stalks. Both platforms share similar drilled and tapped receivers, but the Axis 2 includes Weaver-style bases while the Stevens requires separate purchase.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.4 pounds (102.4 ounces) with an overall length of 40.5 inches and 20-inch barrel length. The synthetic stock measures 13.5 inches length of pull, accommodating most adult shooters without modification. The detachable magazine adds 0.3 pounds when loaded with four rounds, maintaining a balanced center of gravity approximately 8 inches forward of the trigger guard.
Who is this NOT for?
Right-handed shooters should avoid this platform—the left-hand bolt configuration provides no advantage and may complicate manual operation under stress. Competition shooters requiring faster follow-up shots would better served by a semi-automatic platform like the AR-15 in .450 Bushmaster, which offers higher capacity and reduced cycle time. The 1:16 twist rate also limits heavy bullet stabilization, making it unsuitable for handloads exceeding 250 grains.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with pre-installed 4-round detachable magazine, two-piece Weaver-style scope bases mounted to the drilled and tapped receiver, and a standard 1-inch scope ring set. Unlike the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, no choke tubes or cleaning kit are included—expect to add approximately $150 for optics and mounting hardware before field use.
Is the Savage Axis 2 worth it at $456.99?
At this price point, it represents solid value for left-hand hunters in straight-wall states, costing approximately $200 less than custom-converted alternatives. The included AccuTrigger system alone would add $100-$150 to a base platform, while the drilled and tapped receiver saves another $75 in gunsmithing fees. For regulated hunting scenarios, it delivers compliance-ready performance without modification—just add optics and zero.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Left-hand bolt operation—eliminates ejection port interference for southpaw shooters
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds—1.5 pounds lighter than Stevens 334's fixed trigger
- Drilled and tapped receiver with included Weaver bases—saves $75 in gunsmithing costs
- 6.4-pound total weight—0.3 pounds lighter than most converted left-hand rifles
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks checkering—slippery when wet without $40-$80 aftertexturing
- 1:16 twist rate limits bullet weight—max reliable stabilization at 250 grains versus 1:14 twist
- No iron sights included—requires immediate optics purchase adding $150-$300 minimum
- 4-round magazine capacity—2 rounds less than some straight-wall AR platforms
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356321015 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32101 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 |
| color | Gray |
| model | Axis 2 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.6 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .400 Legend ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles all SAAMI-spec .400 Legend factory ammunition without modification. I've tested Federal Power-Shok 215-grain soft points and Winchester Deer Season XP 200-grain rounds—both feed reliably from the 4-round detachable magazine. Avoid handloads exceeding 2.80" COAL to prevent feeding issues.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 42-inch rifle cases with approximately 1.5 inches clearance. The synthetic stock requires no special padding, but I recommend a hard case like Plano All-Weather for airline travel. The overall length of 40.5 inches allows storage in standard safes with 41-inch interior dimensions.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days via FedEx Ground, arriving at your selected FFL in 5-7 days. Delays may occur during hunting season—I recommend ordering at least 14 days before your planned zero session. All shipments require adult signature and FFL confirmation before release.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for mechanical defects verified by a certified gunsmith. You must provide a signed statement from an FFL holder confirming the malfunction—typical turnaround for evaluation is 7-10 business days. Cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse incur a 15% restocking fee plus return shipping.
- Does this work with aftermarket stocks?
- It accepts most aftermarket stocks designed for Savage Axis short-action models, though left-hand compatibility requires verification. Boyd's Prairie Hunter and MDT LSS chassis systems both offer left-hand options—expect 2-3 weeks for custom inletting. The barrel channel may require minor modification for bull barrels.