Savage Axis 2 Compact .243 Win 20 in OD Green Bolt Rifle
About this product
What is the Savage Axis 2 Compact .243 Win? It's a budget-conscious bolt-action rifle engineered for hunters and shooters who prioritize a compact, 6.3-pound package with a 20-inch heavy sporter barrel. This specific model, finished in OD Green, features Savage's established AccuTrigger system and a synthetic stock configured for right-handed operation. Its .243 Winchester chambering makes it a versatile choice for everything from varmint control to medium-sized game.
What is the Savage Axis 2 Compact used for?
This rifle is primarily a hunting tool, ideal for navigating dense woods or for younger or smaller-statured shooters who need a lighter, shorter setup. The .243 Winchester cartridge offers manageable recoil with enough energy for deer and pronghorn out to approximately 250 yards. Its 20-inch barrel provides a good balance between velocity and maneuverability.
How does the Savage Axis 2 Compact compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Axis 2's primary advantage is its user-adjustable AccuTrigger, which is superior to the basic trigger on the Stevens 334. The Stevens is a simpler, cost-focused alternative, but the Axis 2 gives you direct control over pull weight down to about 2.5 pounds, a significant benefit for precision shooting. Both rifles share a similar 4+1 capacity and barrel length, making the trigger the deciding factor.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.30 lbs and has an overall length of 40.5 inches with its 20-inch barrel. This makes it approximately 2.5 inches shorter than a standard 22-inch rifle, and the lighter weight is noticeable after carrying it for several hours in the field. The shorter length of pull is designed for shooters needing a more compact fit.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the long-range precision shooter needing sub-MOA guarantees or someone who prefers a classic wood stock. The synthetic stock, while durable, lacks the rigidity and aesthetic of a fiberglass or laminate option. If your primary use is punching holes in paper at 500+ yards, a heavier-barreled, chassis-based rifle would be a better investment.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 4-round detachable box magazine, and the necessary paperwork. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped with a 6-48 thread pattern for scope mounting bases, but bases, rings, and optics are not included. You will need to budget an additional $50-$200 for a proper mounting system.
Is the Savage Axis 2 Compact worth it at $456.99?
At this price point, the Axis 2 Compact represents solid value for a dedicated hunting rifle, especially considering the inclusion of the AccuTrigger. It undercuts many competitors while offering a feature typically found on more expensive firearms. For a no-frills, reliable tool to put meat in the freezer, it's a difficult package to beat without spending significantly more.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Features a user-adjustable AccuTrigger – adjustable from ~2.5 to 6 lbs, a feature rarely found on rifles under $500
- Weighs 6.30 lbs – over a pound lighter than many comparable compact hunting rifles, reducing fatigue during long carries
- 20-inch heavy sporter barrel – provides better stiffness and heat management than a standard sporter profile for improved consistency
Trade-offs
- Fixed synthetic stock lacks rigidity – can flex against a bipod or shooting rest, potentially affecting point of impact
- No iron sights included – requires an immediate additional investment of $50+ for a basic optic and mount setup
- Standard 4-round magazine capacity – lower than the 5-round capacity common on many competing bolt-action platforms
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356321060 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32106 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .243 Winchester |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.7 |
| sights | No Sights |
| length | 39.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis 2 Compact GEN II |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the receiver drilled and tapped for a scope mount?
- Yes, the receiver is pre-drilled and tapped with a standard 6-48 thread pattern. This is compatible with most common scope base manufacturers like EGW, Warne, and Leupold. You'll need to purchase bases and rings separately.
- Does this rifle come with open sights?
- No, the Savage Axis 2 Compact does not include iron sights. The design is optics-ready, relying on the drilled and tapped receiver for mounting a scope. Plan on adding a red dot or traditional riflescope for use.
- Is the AccuTrigger truly user-adjustable?
- Yes, the AccuTrigger is adjustable by the end user without special tools, typically allowing a pull weight range from about 2.5 to 6 pounds. The adjustment is made via a single hex key on the trigger shoe itself, which is a significant advantage over non-adjustable budget triggers.
- Can left-handed shooters use this rifle?
- This specific model is configured for right-handed operation only. The bolt handle is on the right side. Savage does offer left-handed versions of the Axis platform, but this particular SKU is not one of them.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping typically take 2-4 business days before the firearm is in transit. Final delivery time depends on the carrier and your FFL's location, but expect a total timeline of 5-10 business days from order to FFL notification.