Savage Axis XP 243 Win LH 22″ Bolt Rifle w/ 3-9×40
Pros & cons
What works
- Complete package includes Weaver 3-9×40 scope, a $125 value, mounted and factory-boresighted
- Specifically configured for left-handed shooters, a less common action orientation readily available in this price range
- Weighs 7.6 lbs (3.45 kg) — a full 1.2 lbs lighter than many heavier-barreled .308 hunting rifles
- Standard 22-inch (56 cm) barrel length avoids NFA SBR classification, requiring no federal registration
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock and action bedding lacks rigidity — can yield 1.5-2 MOA variance during sustained fire or bipod use
- AccuTrigger system is the base model, adjustable only to ~3.5 lbs, $50-$80 upgrade needed for a lighter, crisper break
- No included sling or case — adds $40-$60 for basic field transport gear
- Unthreaded barrel necessitates $150-$200 gunsmithing work to host a suppressor
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Savage Axis XP 243 Win LH 22″ Bolt Rifle w/ 3-9×40 is a left-handed, bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in .243 Winchester, sold as a complete package with a mounted and boresighted scope. It's a factory-configured solution for left-handed shooters seeking a dedicated varmint and deer rifle, built on Savage's proven budget-friendly Axis action platform. As a regulated firearm, its primary distinction is a 22-inch barrel length that keeps it off the NFA's short-barreled rifle registry, paired with a left-hand bolt configuration.
What is the Savage Axis XP 243 Win LH 22″ Bolt Rifle used for?
This rifle is a dedicated hunting platform for left-handed shooters pursuing varmint and medium game like coyote and whitetail deer. Its .243 Winchester caliber offers flat trajectory and manageable recoil, making it suited for shots out to 300 yards. The included 3-9×40 scope and factory boresight provide immediate field readiness for ethical harvests.
How does the Savage Axis XP compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win 20″ Bolt-Action Rifle?
The Savage Axis XP offers a superior out-of-box experience for a left-handed shooter needing an optic, while the Stevens 334 .243 Win is better for right-handed shooters building a custom rifle. The Axis XP includes the scope and boresight, saving roughly $125 for a budget optic. However, the Stevens 334 uses an improved, dual-pillar stock system for superior action bedding and rigidity.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 7.6 pounds (3.45 kg) and measures 42.5 inches (108 cm) from butt to muzzle. Its 22-inch (56 cm) barrel contributes to a well-balanced 9.5-inch sight radius from the Weaver scope. This weight and length produce a comfortable carry weight for hunters covering varied terrain on foot.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for right-handed shooters, long-range precision competitors, or anyone needing a suppressor-ready host. Its synthetic stock flexes during bipod use and the 22-inch barrel isn't threaded. If you require a right-hand action, the Stevens 334 in .308 is a better core platform for an optics build. It's also not for shooters demanding sub-MOA accuracy guarantees, as the action and stock are entry-grade.
What's in the box?
The box contains the rifle itself, a mounted and factory-boresighted Weaver 3-9×40 scope, the 4-round detachable box magazine, and all necessary scope mounting hardware. No additional tools, cleaning kits, or trigger lock are typically included. You'll need to supply your own .243 Winchester ammunition, which is widely available in 55-grain to 105-grain loadings.
Is the Savage Axis XP worth it at $461.99?
Yes, for its intended user—a left-handed hunter needing a complete, ready-to-zero rifle for under $500. The price covers a rifle, a basic but functional scope, and boresighting, saving time and initial cash outlay. Compared to buying a bare rifle and a similar optic separately, this package delivers roughly 15% savings on the initial investment. The value proposition diminishes if you plan to immediately replace the scope or stock.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320148 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32014 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .243 Winchester |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 49 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 8.5 |
| package width | 3.75 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.9 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Can I mount a different scope on the included bases?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for a standard Savage short-action scope mount pattern. The included Weaver scope uses Weaver-style rings that are interchangeable with most aftermarket scope rings using a standard 3/8-inch dovetail or Weaver/Picatinny bases. Specific torque for the 8-40 base screws should be precisely 15-18 inch-pounds to avoid stripping the threads in the receiver.
- Is the barrel threaded for a muzzle device or suppressor?
- No, the 22-inch barrel is not threaded. It has a traditional crowned muzzle end. Adding threads for a suppressor would require a gunsmith to cut and thread the barrel, a process costing approximately $150-$200 and requiring an NFA Form 1 or Form 4 tax stamp for the suppressor itself if it is regulated under Title II.
- Does the detachable magazine work with other Savage models?
- No, the detachable 4-round box magazine is specific to the Savage Axis action and is not cross-compatible with Stevens, Ruger, or other Savage rifle series like the Model 110. Replacement magazines are available directly from Savage or through third-party vendors like MidwayUSA and Brownells, typically costing $25-$35 per unit.
- How long does it take to ship to an FFL dealer?
- Processing and shipping to your selected FFL (Federal Firearms License) holder typically takes 3-5 business days from order verification. The final transfer and mandatory NICS background check at the dealer can add an additional 30 minutes to several days, depending on state-specific waiting periods and FBI system delays.