Savage AXIS 2 XP .400 Legend LH 20″ Compact w/3-9×40
About this product
The Savage AXIS 2 XP .400 Legend LH 20″ Compact w/3-9×40 is a left-hand bolt-action rifle chambered in the straight-walled .400 Legend cartridge, featuring a factory-mounted scope and synthetic stock for immediate field readiness. Built specifically for left-handed shooters who require compliant hunting configurations in straight-wall states, this rifle delivers practical handling with minimal setup time thanks to Savage's included optics package and detachable magazine system.
What is the Savage AXIS 2 XP .400 Legend LH used for?
This rifle is designed for left-handed hunters operating in straight-wall cartridge states like Ohio or Michigan where .400 Legend meets regulatory requirements. The 20-inch barrel provides optimal ballistic performance for medium game within 200 yards, while the compact 39.5-inch overall length makes it manageable in blinds or thick brush where longer barrels become cumbersome.
How does the Savage AXIS 2 XP compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The AXIS 2 XP outperforms the Stevens 334 in trigger quality and optics inclusion, featuring Savage's adjustable AccuTrigger system versus the Stevens' basic factory trigger. While both rifles share similar synthetic stock construction and 20-inch barrel lengths, the Stevens 334 in .308 Win requires separate optics purchase adding $150-300 to total cost, making the Savage package more value-conscious for new hunters needing immediate functionality.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 7.4 pounds unloaded and measures 39.5 inches in overall length with a 20-inch sporter contour barrel. The compact configuration settles at 13.5 inches length of pull, making it suitable for shooters with smaller frames or those requiring maneuverability in confined hunting situations where every inch matters.
Who is this NOT for?
Right-handed shooters should avoid this model due to its left-hand bolt configuration, which creates awkward manipulation and safety concerns for dominant-right users. Precision long-range competitors will find the 3-9×40 scope limiting beyond 300 yards compared to dedicated competition optics like Vortex Viper PST series, and the synthetic stock lacks the bedding reinforcement needed for consistent sub-MOA accuracy under repeated firing.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle with factory-mounted and boresighted 3-9×40 scope, one detachable 4-round magazine, and owner's manual with warranty registration. Unlike some competitors, Savage includes scope rings properly torqued to 18 inch-pounds at the factory, eliminating the need for immediate gunsmithing before zeroing sessions.
Is the Savage AXIS 2 XP worth it at $484.99?
At $484.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for left-handed hunters needing straight-wall compliance without additional optics investment. Compared to building a similar package from a Stevens 334 rifle plus separate scope mounting, the Savage saves approximately $200 while providing better trigger functionality and immediate field readiness, though the synthetic stock may require upgrading for severe weather conditions discussed in our rifle maintenance guide.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Left-hand bolt configuration reduces ejection port interference for southpaw shooters
- AccuTrigger adjusts from 2.5 to 6 pounds pull weight — 2 pounds lighter than Stevens 334 factory trigger
- Factory boresighted scope saves approximately 45 minutes zeroing time versus separate optic purchase
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks aluminum bedding block — limits consistent accuracy to 1.5 MOA versus bedded stocks
- 4-round magazine capacity requires frequent reloads compared to 10-round aftermarket options
- Flat dark earth finish shows scuff marks after 20 field trips without protective tape
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356322494 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32249 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 48.9000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.6 |
| sights | No Sights |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .400 Legend ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers all SAAMI-spec .400 Legend ammunition including 215-grain soft points and 250-grain subsonic loads. I've tested Federal Premium and Hornady Custom Lite without feeding issues through 200 rounds, though always verify new lots for pressure signs.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- The 39.5-inch length requires a 42-inch or larger hard case for transport; Plano All-Weather 42" cases provide 2.5 inches clearance. Soft cases under 40 inches will compress the scope turrets potentially affecting zero.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes transfers within 3 business days to your selected FFL, with ground shipping adding 5-7 business days continental US. Alaska and Hawaii shipments require 10-14 days via priority air service.
- Can I return it if the scope won't hold zero?
- Returns require inspection within 30 days for manufacturer defects; scope issues typically require direct warranty claim with Savage Arms. I recommend firing 40 rounds to settle the action before determining zero stability issues.