Savage Axis 2 XP .400 Legend 20″ Gray Synthetic w/3-9×40
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Savage Axis 2 XP .400 Legend 20″ Gray Synthetic w/3-9×40 is a bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in .400 Legend that comes optics-ready with bore-sighted 3-9×40 glass, factory AccuTrigger, and 4-round detachable box magazine. This package delivers immediate field readiness for hunters prioritizing cost-effectiveness without sacrificing mechanical reliability. The synthetic stock and 40.5" overall length balance portability with stability, while drilled/tapped receiver accommodates aftermarket optic upgrades.
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP .400 Legend used for?
This rifle excels at whitetail hunting within 200 yards—the .400 Legend cartridge generates 2,200 fps muzzle velocity with 225-grain bullets, maintaining ethical energy transfer at typical Eastern woodland distances. The 20" sporter barrel handles brush effectively while the 3-9×40 scope provides clear target acquisition in low light. For hunters in straight-wall cartridge states, this package eliminates the guesswork of pairing rifle and optics separately.
How does the Savage Axis 2 XP compare to the Stevens 334?
The Savage Axis 2 XP outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester in trigger quality and out-of-box readiness—the AccuTrigger breaks crisply at 3.5 lbs versus the Stevens' 5.5 lbs military-style trigger, while the included scope saves $150-$200 over buying separately. However, the Stevens 334 offers greater long-range versatility with .308 Winchester ballistics beyond 300 yards, making it better for open-country hunting where the .400 Legend's arc becomes prohibitive.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.5 lbs (120 oz) with overall length measuring 40.5 inches—this balances well in a tree stand or blind without feeling unwieldy during extended carries. The 20-inch barrel keeps overall length manageable while maintaining adequate velocity; the gray synthetic stock contributes to the weight savings compared to walnut alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun which weighs 7.8 lbs empty.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for precision shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy guarantees or long-range hunters engaging beyond 250 yards—the .400 Legend drops 18 inches at 300 yards, requiring significant holdover. The synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb height or length-of-pull spacers, limiting custom fit for shooters outside average proportions. Those requiring higher magazine capacity should look elsewhere—the 4-round detachable box mandates frequent reloads during extended range sessions.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle with mounted 3-9×40 scope (bore-sighted at 100 yards), one 4-round detachable magazine, and owner's manual—no cleaning kit or sling is provided. The scope mount uses Savage's proprietary one-piece base requiring no additional hardware for installation. Total shipping weight is 9.2 lbs including packaging materials and protective foam inserts.
Is the Savage Axis 2 XP worth it at $505.99?
At $505.99, this package delivers exceptional value—comparable setups with separate rifle and scope purchases typically exceed $650. The bore-sighted scope saves approximately 45 minutes of zeroing time at the range, while the AccuTrigger provides a clean break uncommon in this price bracket. For hunters needing a dedicated straight-wall platform without custom gunsmithing, this represents one of the most cost-effective solutions on the market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjustable down to 3.5 lbs—2 lbs lighter pull than comparable Stevens 334 trigger
- Factory bore-sighted scope saves 45 minutes of zeroing time versus separate optic purchase
- 7.5 lbs unloaded weight balances well for offhand shooting compared to 8.2 lbs wood-stock alternatives
Trade-offs
- 4-round magazine capacity requires frequent reloading—aftermarket 10-round magazines not available
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb or length-of-pull spacers—limits custom fit for $150 upgrade
- .400 Legend ammunition costs $1.75/round versus $0.80/round for .223 Remington
Key attributes
| upc | 011356321787 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32178 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 |
| color | Gray |
| length | 40.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis 2 XP |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.3 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket scope mounts?
- Yes—the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Savage short-action scope bases using 6-48 screws. We recommend EGW or Talley bases for optimal ring alignment. The included scope uses a one-piece mount that can be replaced with aftermarket rings if desired.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes—the 40.5-inch overall length fits most 42-inch takedown cases. For hard cases, consider Plano All-Weather 42" or similar models. The synthetic stock resists scuffing during transport better than wood finishes.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days via FedEx with adult signature required. Transit time averages 2-5 days depending on destination. All shipments include tracking and require FFL transfer upon arrival.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unused firearms—expect a 15% restocking fee and buyer pays return shipping. Firearms must be returned to our FFL holder and undergo safety inspection before refund processing, which takes 7-10 business days.
- Does this work with .400 Legend suppressor?
- Yes—the 20-inch barrel has .400 Legend's 1:16 twist rate optimized for subsonic loads. Thread pattern is 5/8-24 TPI, compatible with SilencerCo Omega 300 or Dead Air Nomad-L models. Always verify local NFA regulations before purchasing.