Savage Axis 2 XP Compact .243 Win 20in OD Green w/ Scope
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About this product
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact .243 Win 20in OD Green w/ Scope?
It’s a bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in .243 Winchester, with a 20-inch heavy sporter barrel and a factory-mounted, boresighted 3-9x40 scope. This rifle balances compact handling with out-of-the-box accuracy, featuring an adjustable AccuTrigger and a synthetic OD green stock for all-weather use. The detachable 4-round magazine keeps it practical for field carry, and the overall length of 39.5 inches makes it maneuverable in tight spaces like blinds or thick brush.
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact .243 Win used for?
It’s optimized for varmint hunting and medium-game pursuits, leveraging the .243 Winchester cartridge’s flat trajectory and mild recoil. The rifle excels in scenarios requiring quick, offhand shots at distances up to 300 yards, with the 1:9.25″ twist rate stabilizing rounds from 55 to 100 grains. It’s not intended for long-range precision or heavy-recoil applications, making it ideal for new hunters or those prioritizing portability.
How does the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win 20″?
The Axis 2 XP has a superior trigger system and includes a scope, while the Stevens 334 lacks both. Savage’s AccuTrigger allows pull weight adjustment from 2.5 to 6 pounds, a feature absent in the Stevens 334’s basic fixed trigger. However, the Stevens 334 is lighter at 6.8 pounds versus 7.5 pounds, making it slightly more agile for backcountry hiking. Both share the same 20-inch barrel and .243 Win chambering, but the Axis 2 XP offers better value for beginners needing a ready-to-shoot package.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
It weighs 7.5 pounds unloaded and measures 39.5 inches in overall length. The barrel is 20 inches long with a heavy sporter profile, contributing to stability during rapid fire. The magazine adds 0.3 pounds when loaded with four rounds, keeping total field weight under 8 pounds for manageable carry during extended hunts.
Who is this NOT for?
It’s not for long-range precision shooters or those needing high magazine capacity. The 4-round detachable magazine limits sustained fire compared to models like the the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, which holds 5 rounds but lacks a scope. The .243 Winchester cartridge also isn’t ideal for large game beyond 400 yards, where heavier calibers excel.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle with mounted 3-9x40 scope, one 4-round detachable magazine, and a basic set of mounting hardware. The scope is pre-boresighted at 100 yards, saving approximately 15 minutes of zeroing time at the range. No cleaning kit or case is included, so budget an extra $50 for those essentials.
Is the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact worth it at $505.99?
Yes, for hunters wanting a scoped, adjustable-trigger rifle under $600. It outperforms similarly priced alternatives like the Stevens 334 in trigger quality and included optics, though it’s heavier. The package eliminates the need for separate scope purchases, which can add $150-$300, making it a cost-effective entry into .243 Winchester hunting. If you prioritize ultralight weight or already own a scope, consider the bare Stevens 334 instead.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Includes boresighted 3-9x40 scope—saves $150+ versus buying separately
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds—30% lighter pull than fixed triggers
- 20-inch barrel stabilizes .243 Win rounds up to 100 grains—ideal for varmint to deer
Trade-offs
- 7.5-pound weight—0.7 pounds heavier than Stevens 334, less ideal for long hikes
- 4-round magazine capacity—1 round less than some competitors, limits sustained fire
- No iron sights—relies entirely on scope, problematic if optics fail
Key attributes
| upc | 011356322166 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32216 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .243 Winchester |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 48.7500 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.45 |
| sights | No Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket magazines?
- Yes, it accepts Savage Axis detachable magazines, which are widely available from brands like MDT or Savage themselves. The stock magazine holds 4 rounds, but extended 10-round options exist for around $40-$60. Always verify part numbers to ensure fit—look for Savage Model 110 pattern magazines.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, a 40-inch case accommodates its 39.5-inch length with minimal extra space. I recommend Plano All-Weather cases, which run about $120 and provide padding for the scope. Avoid cases under 38 inches, as they won’t close properly.
- How long does shipping take?
- Typically 3-7 business days for in-stock items, depending on your location and carrier. Ironclad Armory uses FedEx Ground for most shipments, with tracking provided within 24 hours of order confirmation. Delay times can extend to 14 days during peak seasons like fall hunting prep.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Yes, within 30 days of purchase, provided it’s unfired and in original packaging. Ironclad Armory charges a 15% restocking fee for non-defective returns, and you cover return shipping costs—typically $25-$40 via insured carrier. Defective items are replaced at no cost after inspection.