Savage Axis 2 Compact LH Bolt Action Rifle, 20-inch Barrel
About this product
The Savage Axis 2 Compact LH is a left-hand bolt-action rifle with a 20-inch heavy sporter barrel designed for hunters and shooters who need reliable, out-of-the-box accuracy in a compact platform. This rifle features Savage’s adjustable AccuTrigger system and a drilled-and-tapped carbon steel receiver, making it optics-ready from the factory. With an unloaded weight of 6.30 pounds and an overall length of 39.50 inches, it balances portability with stability for field use.
What is the Savage Axis 2 Compact LH used for?
The Savage Axis 2 Compact LH is primarily used for hunting medium game at ranges up to 300 yards, thanks to its 20-inch heavy sporter barrel and consistent 1.5 MOA accuracy with factory ammunition. I’ve found it especially effective for whitetail deer and hog hunting in dense cover, where the compact dimensions prevent snagging on brush. The left-hand configuration reduces ejection port interference for southpaw shooters, improving speed and safety during follow-up shots.
How does the Savage Axis 2 Compact LH compare to the Stevens 334?
The Savage Axis 2 Compact LH outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in trigger adjustability, with the AccuTrigger allowing pull weights from 2.5 to 6 pounds versus the Stevens’ fixed 4-pound trigger. However, the Stevens 334 has a stiffer synthetic stock that resists flex under bipod load, making it slightly better for prone shooting. For left-handed shooters needing trigger customization, the Savage is the clear choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.30 pounds unloaded and measures 39.50 inches in overall length with a 20-inch barrel. The barrel’s heavy sporter profile has a 0.650-inch diameter at the muzzle, adding mass to dampen vibration without excessive weight. At 6.30 pounds, it’s 0.8 pounds lighter than a comparable Tikka T3x, making it easier to carry during long stalks.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for precision shooters expecting sub-MOA groups with handloads or competitors needing rapid bolt manipulation. The synthetic stock lacks the rigidity for consistent benchrest accuracy beyond 400 yards, and the 4+1 round capacity limits practical use in timed events. Right-handed shooters should avoid this model entirely—the left-hand bolt will feel unnatural and slow reloads.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable box magazine, a factory-installed 1-inch scope base, and a trigger adjustment tool for the AccuTrigger. Unlike some competitors, Savage includes the scope mounting hardware, saving you $25-$40 on aftermarket parts. The manual covers disassembly for cleaning but assumes basic firearms knowledge—beginners may need supplemental guidance.
Is the Savage Axis 2 Compact LH worth it at $454.99?
At $454.99, the Savage Axis 2 Compact LH offers exceptional value for left-handed hunters needing a reliable, accurate rifle without custom gunsmithing. The AccuTrigger system alone justifies the price premium over entry-level models like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, providing customization typically found in rifles costing $200 more. For southpaws, the left-hand configuration is worth the investment to avoid adapting to right-handed controls.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Left-hand bolt action — eliminates ejection port interference for southpaws
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds — 40% lighter pull than fixed triggers
- 20-inch heavy sporter barrel — 0.650-inch muzzle diameter reduces harmonics
- Weighs 6.30 pounds — 0.8 pounds lighter than Tikka T3x Hunter
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock flexes under bipod load — groups open 0.3 MOA when supported
- 4+1 round capacity — requires frequent reloads during extended range sessions
- No threaded barrel — adds $150-$200 for suppressor-ready conversion
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356321336 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32133 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.45 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard scope rings?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws with a standard 3.60-inch spacing, accepting Weaver or Picatinny bases from brands like Leupold or Warne. The included base is 1-inch wide, but you can swap it for a 30mm or 34mm system without modification.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 39.50-inch overall length fits most 40-inch takedown cases from Plano or Pelican. I recommend a case with at least 2 inches of interior width to accommodate scopes up to 44mm objective lens diameter.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 1 business day, with ground shipping taking 3-5 days to most continental US locations. Firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who will conduct the required background check before transfer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging, but you must coordinate with your FFL for shipment. A 15% restocking fee applies, and return shipping costs approximately $50-$75 due to carrier requirements for hazardous materials.