Savage Axis 2 XP Compact .400 Legend 20in 3-9×40 Scope
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory boresighted scope saves $100+ gunsmithing time
- 7.4 lb weight balances well for off-hand shooting
- AccuTrigger adjusts down to 2.5 lb pull weight
- 4-round detachable magazine enables quick reloads
Trade-offs
- Unthreaded barrel requires $200+ gunsmith work for suppressors
- 13.5-inch length of pull too short for shooters over 6'2"
- Synthetic stock lacks bedding pillars—groups open to 1.8 MOA after 20 rounds
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact .400 Legend 20in 3-9×40 Scope? It's a factory-configured bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in .400 Legend with a 20-inch barrel and pre-mounted optics, designed specifically for compact handling and immediate field deployment. This package eliminates the gunsmithing step for new hunters while maintaining Savage's mechanical reliability. The .400 Legend cartridge provides ethical takedown power on medium game within 200 yards without excessive recoil.
What is the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for whitetail and hog hunting in dense brush where shots rarely exceed 150 yards. The .400 Legend cartridge delivers 2,150 fps muzzle velocity with 220-grain soft points, generating approximately 2,260 ft-lbs of energy—sufficient for clean kills on 200-pound game. The compact 39.5-inch overall length makes it maneuverable in blinds or thick cover, while the 7.4-pound weight reduces fatigue during extended stalks.
How does the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Savage Axis 2 XP outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in out-of-box readiness but sacrifices long-range versatility. Where the Stevens requires separate optics purchase and mounting (adding $150-300 and gunsmith time), this Savage arrives boresighted and ready for zeroing. However, the Stevens' .308 chambering maintains energy better beyond 300 yards and offers wider ammunition selection—critical for precision shooters who hand-load.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle measures 39.5 inches overall with a 20-inch barrel and weighs 7.4 pounds unloaded. The barrel features a 1:16 twist rate optimized for stabilizing .400 Legend's heavier projectiles, while the 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates smaller-framed shooters without requiring aftermarket modifications. The magazine adds 0.6 pounds when loaded with four rounds of typical 220-grain ammunition.
Who is this NOT for?
This package is ill-suited for long-range precision shooting or hunters requiring custom chassis systems. The .400 Legend's ballistic coefficient limits effective range to approximately 250 yards with significant drop, and the synthetic stock lacks bedding blocks or adjustable comb height. For shooters needing 500+ yard capability or competition-ready features, consider a chassis rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win with aftermarket stock options.
What's in the box?
You receive one complete rifle with factory-mounted 3-9×40 scope, one detachable 4-round magazine, and scope lens caps. The scope is pre-boresighted using Savage's laser alignment system, typically placing first shots within 4 inches of point of aim at 100 yards. Notably absent are threading protectors (the barrel is unthreaded) and additional magazines—purchase spares separately for approximately $35 each.
Is the Savage Axis 2 XP Compact worth it at $505.99?
At $505.99, this package delivers exceptional value for hunters needing immediate field readiness without gunsmithing costs. The included scope alone retails for $90-120 separately, while AccuTrigger installation would add $75-100 to a base rifle. Compared to building a similar package from components, you save approximately $200 and eliminate compatibility concerns—just add ammunition and sight in.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356322357 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32235 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 39.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis 2 XP Compact GEN II |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.8 |
| sights | No Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- No, the 20-inch barrel comes unthreaded from factory. Threading would require gunsmith work costing $150-250 plus ATF paperwork if creating an SBR. Consider the Stevens 334 series if you need factory-threaded options for suppressor compatibility.
- Does it accept aftermarket stocks?
- Yes, but with limitations. The Axis II action uses Savage's standard inlet pattern, but compact models require shortened stock options. Boyd's and MDT offer compatible chassis starting at $249—ensure you select 'Axis Compact' specific models to maintain proper length of pull.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers typically process within 3-5 business days after documentation clearance. Ironclad Armory uses UPS 2-Day Air for firearms, meaning most Montana deliveries complete within 7 days total from order confirmation to FFL receipt.
- Can I use .223 magazines with this rifle?
- Absolutely not. The .400 Legend requires specific magazines due to its larger case diameter. Attempting to use .223/5.56 magazines will cause feeding failures and potentially damage the feed lips. Only use Savage OEM magazines marked specifically for .400 Legend.