Savage Axis 2 Compact 6.5 Creedmoor 20in FDE
About this product
The Savage Axis 2 Compact 6.5 Creedmoor 20in FDE is a purpose-built, lightweight bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. It's a Gen II revision that emphasizes a shortened overall length and reduced weight for demanding backcountry use. The package centers on Savage's proven AccuTrigger system and a cold-hammer-forged barrel, delivering precision-grade components at an entry-level price point.
What is the Savage Axis 2 Compact used for?
The Savage Axis 2 Compact is primarily a lightweight hunting rifle designed for stalking and carrying in steep, wooded terrain. Its 6.5 Creedmoor chambering makes it exceptionally capable for taking medium game like deer and antelope at ranges out to 400 yards with factory ammunition. The compact 39.5-inch overall length and 6.4-pound unloaded weight are critical advantages when navigating thick brush or packing an animal out over distance, where every ounce and inch matters for shooter fatigue and maneuverability.
How does the Savage Axis 2 Compact compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win?
The Savage Axis 2 Compact offers a superior factory trigger and more advanced cartridge for precision hunting, while the Stevens 334 is a more basic, budget-conscious utility rifle. The Axis 2's user-adjustable AccuTrigger has a clean break that can be set between 2.5 and 6 pounds, a clear mechanical advantage over the Stevens 334's non-adjustable, heavier factory trigger. However, for a shooter who prioritizes absolute lowest cost and common .308 Winchester ammunition availability over trigger feel and ballistic efficiency, the Stevens 334 in .308 Win remains a viable, no-frills alternative.
What does the Savage Axis 2 Compact weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle has an unloaded weight of 6.4 pounds (2.9 kg) and an overall length of 39.5 inches (1003 mm). The centerpiece is its 20-inch (508 mm) heavy sporter profile barrel with a 1:8-inch twist rate, which is designed to stabilize a wide range of 6.5mm bullet weights from 120 to 147 grains. These dimensions create a package that is approximately 5 inches shorter and 0.8 pounds lighter than a standard 22-inch barreled Axis II XP, a tangible difference felt over a full day of carrying.
Who is this Savage Axis 2 Compact NOT for?
This rifle is not for the precision rifle competitor or the shooter who requires extensive aftermarket stock support. The fixed synthetic stock, while durable and lightweight, offers no adjustability for length of pull or comb height, limiting your ability to achieve a perfect, repeatable cheek weld without aftermarket modification. Furthermore, the 4-round detachable magazine capacity is a hard limitation for high-volume training sessions or certain types of predator control where a higher capacity bolt-action like a Ruger American Predator (with its 10-round AICS-pattern magazines) would be more appropriate.
What's in the box with the Savage Axis 2 Compact?
You receive the rifle with the detachable 4-round magazine inserted, one plastic trigger lock, and the owner's manual/cable lock key. Notably absent is any form of optic, mounting hardware, or a sling, which are considered essential field accessories. The rifle’s drilled-and-tapped receiver is ready for a scope base, but you must purchase and install that base, rings, and optic separately, adding a minimum of $100-$400 to your total setup cost before you can fire your first round.
Is the Savage Axis 2 Compact worth it at $422.99?
At $422.99, the Savage Axis 2 Compact represents significant value for a hunter seeking a lightweight, accurate, and modern-chambered rifle straight from the box. You are paying for a refined, adjustable trigger system and an efficient, flat-shooting cartridge that outperforms traditional .308 Winchester in wind drift and recoil within its effective range. If your needs are more recreational or you desire the classic feel of a wood-stocked shotgun for clays, you might compare its value proposition to that of a Stevens 555 Sporting in 20 Gauge, which serves a completely different shooting discipline.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.4 lb unloaded weight — over 0.75 lb lighter than many competing 22-inch hunting rifles.
- User-adjustable AccuTrigger with a 2.5 to 6 lb pull weight range out of the box.
- 20-inch 1:8 twist barrel stabilizes long, high-BC bullets up to 147 grains effectively.
- 39.5-inch overall length provides superior maneuverability in blinds and thick cover.
Trade-offs
- Fixed synthetic stock offers zero adjustability for length of pull or comb height.
- 4-round magazine capacity is limiting for training; aftermarket higher-capacity mags are extra.
- Barrel is not threaded from the factory, requiring a $150+ gunsmith job for a muzzle device.
- Flat Dark Earth (FDE) stock color may not be legal for all hunting jurisdictions; check local regulations.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356321145 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32114 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20'' |
| capacity | 4-Round |
| length | 39.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis 2 Compact GEN II |
| shipping weight | 8.4 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Savage Axis 2 Compact receiver drilled and tapped for a scope mount?
- Yes. The carbon steel receiver comes from the factory pre-drilled and tapped with a standard Savage Axis pattern (front: #8-40 screws, rear: #6-48 screws) for attaching a scope base. You will need to purchase a separate one-piece or two-piece base, such as those from EGW or Weaver, which typically cost between $25 and $65.
- What is the thread pattern on the barrel muzzle?
- The barrel muzzle is not threaded from the factory. The 20-inch heavy sporter barrel comes with a crowned muzzle only. If you wish to add a muzzle brake or suppressor, you will need to have the barrel professionally threaded by a gunsmith to your desired specification (commonly 5/8x24 TPI for 6.5 Creedmoor), which costs approximately $120-$200 plus shipping.
- Can I use standard Savage Axis magazines in the Axis 2 Compact?
- Yes, the Axis 2 Compact uses the same detachable box magazine design as the full-size Savage Axis II rifles. You can purchase additional 4-round magazines or aftermarket 5- or 10-round magazines from companies like MDT or Accurate-Mag that are compatible with the Savage Axis/Axis II platform.
- How long does standard ground shipping take from Ironclad Armory?
- Standard ground shipping to a licensed FFL dealer typically takes 5-7 business days from the time your order and FFL information are processed. Processing time itself is usually 1-2 business days for in-stock items. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for an additional fee.