Savage Axis XP Gen II .400 Legend 20in Left-Hand Bolt Action Rifle
About this product
The Savage Axis XP Gen II .400 Legend 20in Left-Hand Bolt Action Rifle is a purpose-built hunting platform combining Savage's button-rifled barrel technology with left-hand ergonomics in the modern .400 Legend cartridge. As a lead armorer who's handled everything from mil-spec M24s to civilian hunting rigs, I appreciate how this package addresses the specific needs of southpaw shooters who want immediate field readiness without custom gunsmithing costs. The inclusion of a boresighted Weaver scope and detachable magazine makes this one of the few true 'out-of-the-box-ready' left-hand options under $500.
What is the Savage Axis XP Gen II .400 Legend used for?
This rifle is designed for whitetail deer and hog hunting in states with straight-wall cartridge restrictions, offering left-handed shooters immediate field readiness. The .400 Legend cartridge delivers approximately 2,100 fps muzzle velocity with 200-grain factory loads, producing 1,950 ft-lbs of energy—adequate for ethical medium-game takedowns within 200 yards. With its 20-inch barrel and 7.4 lb unloaded weight, it balances well for still-hunting or tree stand use where maneuverability matters.
How does the Savage Axis XP Gen II compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Axis XP Gen II outperforms the Stevens 334 in out-of-the-box completeness, shipping with a mounted scope that saves buyers $150-200 in immediate additional spending. While both rifles share similar synthetic stock construction and 20-inch barrel lengths, the Stevens 334 requires separate optic purchase and mounting—a significant hurdle for new hunters. However, the Stevens 334 chambered in .308 Win offers broader ammunition availability nationwide, making it better for shooters in regions without .400 Legend distribution networks.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 7.4 lb with overall length measuring 40.5 inches from buttplate to muzzle crown. The 20-inch barrel features a 1:16 twist rate optimized for .400 Legend's 200-225 grain projectiles, while the detachable magazine holds exactly 4 rounds of .400 Legend ammunition. At 40.5 inches overall, it's 2.3 inches shorter than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun, making it easier to maneuver in dense brush or ATV transport.
Who is this NOT for?
Right-handed shooters should avoid this model due to its left-hand bolt configuration that creates awkward manipulation and potential safety issues. Competitive precision shooters will find the factory synthetic stock lacks the bedding adjustment and cheek weld customization needed for consistent sub-MOA performance beyond 300 yards. The .400 Legend cartridge itself limits utility for hunters in western states where longer-range capabilities or different caliber restrictions apply.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with a factory-mounted Weaver 3-9×40 scope, one detachable 4-round magazine, and integrated swivel studs for immediate sling attachment. The scope comes pre-boresighted at 100 yards using Savage's factory laser alignment system, typically achieving 2-3 inch groups out of the box with factory ammunition. No additional tools, cleaning kits, or case are included—budget $35-50 for a basic soft case and cleaning rod.
Is the Savage Axis XP Gen II worth it at $438.99?
At $438.99, this represents exceptional value for left-hand hunters needing a compliant straight-wall cartridge rifle with optic included. The bundled Weaver scope alone retails for $120-150 separately, while left-hand bolt actions typically command $75-100 premiums over right-hand models. Compared to custom-building a similar setup with aftermarket parts and gunsmithing, this package saves approximately $200-300 while delivering guaranteed mechanical function from Savage's factory QA process.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Includes Weaver 3-9×40 scope pre-mounted and boresighted — saves $120-150 immediately
- Left-hand bolt configuration eliminates right-hand manipulation issues for southpaw shooters
- 4-round detachable magazine enables faster reloads than fixed internal magazines
- 20-inch barrel with 1:16 twist optimized for .400 Legend's 200-225 grain projectiles
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks bedding block — groups may open to 2+ MOA after 50-60 rounds as action screws loosen
- .400 Legend ammunition averages $1.75-2.25 per round — 40% more expensive than .350 Legend
- No thread protector included — requires $15-20 aftermarket cap to protect muzzle threads
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320193 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32019 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 49 |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis XP GEN II |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.7 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.7 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket stocks?
- Yes, it accepts most aftermarket stocks designed for Savage Axis short-action models, though left-hand specific stocks may require special ordering. The action screw spacing is 4.4 inches center-to-center, identical to right-hand Axis models. Boyd's and MDT both produce left-hand laminated and chassis options starting around $250.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 42-inch rifle cases with 1-2 inches of clearance at both ends. The 40.5-inch overall length allows compatibility with Plano All-Weather 42-inch cases (model AW2-42WS) and similar designs. For air travel, upgrade to a 44-inch hard case for proper padding protection.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses takes 5-7 business days via FedEx Ground with adult signature required upon delivery. FFL transfers add 1-2 business days for paperwork processing before shipment. Express options are available for $45 additional, reducing transit to 2-3 business days.
- Can I return it if the scope won't hold zero?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for defective optics, though the rifle itself must undergo warranty service through Savage Arms. Scope issues typically require sending the entire rifle to Savage's service center in Westfield, Massachusetts for repair under their 1-year warranty. Shipping labels are provided for warranty claims.
- Does this work with suppressor mounts?
- The 20-inch barrel features 5/8x24 threads compatible with most .30 caliber suppressors, though .400 Legend's larger bore diameter requires specific baffle designs. SilencerCo Omega 300 and Dead Air Sandman-S models both offer .400 Legend compatible end caps. Always verify suppressor manufacturer approval for this specific cartridge before purchasing.