Savage Axis 2 Compact .223 Rem 20-inch Bolt Action Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Savage Axis 2 Compact is a .223 Rem/5.56 NATO bolt-action rifle optimized for shooters who need a shorter, lighter platform for fieldwork and varmint control. It features Savage's adjustable AccuTrigger system and comes drilled and tapped for optics. This 20-inch barreled rifle weighs 6.30 pounds with an overall length of 39.50 inches, making it substantially more compact than full-size hunting rifles.
What is the Savage Axis 2 Compact used for?
This rifle is designed for varmint hunting, light-duty fieldwork, and as a compact training platform. The 20-inch barrel provides adequate velocity for .223 Remington while the 4-round detachable magazine makes it ideal for situations requiring mobility. I'd recommend it for coyote hunters working from tight blinds or shooters teaching younger users proper bolt-action fundamentals.
How does the Savage Axis 2 Compact compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Axis 2 Compact is better for recoil-sensitive shooters while the Stevens 334 chambered in .308 Winchester delivers more terminal energy for larger game. The .223 Remington cartridge generates approximately 30% less recoil energy than .308 Winchester, making the Axis 2 significantly more manageable for extended range sessions. For deer hunting in restrictive states, the Stevens 334 would be my clear choice despite its similar $430 price point.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.30 pounds with an overall length of 39.50 inches and barrel length of 20 inches. The synthetic stock contributes to the light weight while the 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates smaller-statured shooters without feeling cramped. At 6.30 pounds, it's nearly 2 pounds lighter than many wood-stocked alternatives in this caliber.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for hunters pursuing medium to large game where .223 Remington is legally restricted or ballistically marginal. The cartridge lacks the energy for ethical deer hunting in most jurisdictions, and the non-threaded muzzle prevents suppressor attachment without gunsmithing. Serious precision shooters will also want a heavier barrel profile than this sporter contour provides.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 4-round detachable magazine, and basic paperwork. Unlike some competitors, Savage doesn't include scope bases, so budget $25-40 for quality mounting hardware. The package lacks any cleaning equipment or case, which is typical for this price segment but worth noting for first-time buyers.
Is the Savage Axis 2 Compact worth it at $431.99?
At $431.99, this rifle delivers excellent value for its intended purposes. The AccuTrigger system alone justifies the price difference over older Axis models, providing a crisp 2.5-6 pound adjustable pull weight. For comparison, the similar Stevens 334 in .308 Win costs nearly the same but serves different ballistic requirements.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5-6 lbs - 40% lighter pull than basic trigger systems
- Weighs 6.30 lbs - nearly 2 pounds lighter than wood-stocked competitors
- 20-inch barrel provides optimal .223 velocity without excessive length
- Drilled and tapped receiver accepts standard Savage scope bases
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded muzzle requires $75-150 gunsmith work for suppressor use
- Proprietary magazine system limits aftermarket options compared to AICS pattern
- Sporter barrel profile heats quickly during sustained fire - groups open after 10 rapid rounds
Key attributes
| upc | 011356321053 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32105 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20'' |
| caliber/gauge | .223 REM/5.56 NATO |
| capacity | 4-Round |
| length | 39.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis 2 Compact GEN II |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 8.5 |
| package width | 3.75 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.2 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- No, the muzzle is non-threaded from the factory. Adding threads requires a gunsmith to cut and crown the barrel, typically costing $75-150 plus the $200 ATF tax stamp for suppressor ownership.
- Does this work with AR-15 magazines?
- No, it uses Savage's proprietary detachable box magazine system. The included magazine holds 4 rounds, and additional magazines retail for approximately $35 each through Savage's online store.
- What scope base pattern does it use?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Savage short action scope bases. I recommend EGW or Weaver bases specifically marked for Savage Axis models, which typically ship within 3-5 business days from major retailers.
- Can left-handed shooters use this rifle?
- This specific model is configured for right-handed shooters only. Savage does offer left-handed versions of the Axis II, but they typically require special ordering through distributors with 4-6 week lead times.
- What's the actual trigger pull weight?
- The AccuTrigger is user-adjustable from approximately 2.5 to 6 pounds. Most factory-set examples I've measured break consistently at 3.25 pounds, which is ideal for precision shooting without being dangerously light for field use.