Savage Axis XP Compact Gen II 400 Legend 20″ LH w/3-9×40
Pros & cons
What works
- Left-hand bolt configuration eliminates ejection issues for southpaw shooters
- Includes bore-sighted 3-9x40 scope saving $80-100 versus separate purchase
- 7.3 pound weight makes it 1.2 pounds lighter than comparable wood-stock rifles
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds for personalized break weight
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks checkering or texture - requires $40-60 slip-on grip tape for wet conditions
- 4-round magazine capacity limits practical use compared to 5-round models common in this class
- No thread protector or muzzle device - adding suppressor compatibility requires $150-200 gunsmithing
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Savage Axis XP Compact Gen II 400 Legend 20″ LH w/3-9×40? It's a left-hand bolt-action hunting rifle chambered in .400 Legend with a factory-mounted scope and compact synthetic stock weighing 7.3 pounds. This rifle ships bore-sighted and ready for deer hunting in states with straight-wall cartridge regulations, offering a purpose-built platform for left-handed shooters who need compliance-ready performance without custom gunsmithing.
What is the Savage Axis XP Compact Gen II 400 Legend used for?
This rifle is designed for hunting medium game in straight-wall cartridge states where .350 Legend and .450 Bushmaster dominate. The .400 Legend cartridge delivers approximately 2,100 fps muzzle velocity with 200-grain ammunition, making it effective for whitetail within 200 yards. Left-handed shooters benefit from the dedicated bolt configuration that eliminates right-hand ejection issues during follow-up shots.
How does the Savage Axis XP Compact Gen II compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Savage Axis outperforms the Stevens 334 in straight-wall compliance states but loses on long-range versatility. While the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers superior ballistics beyond 300 yards, the Savage Axis in .400 Legend meets specific regulatory requirements that the .308 cannot. For hunters in Ohio, Michigan, or Iowa, the Savage is the legally compliant choice despite the Stevens' superior effective range.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.3 pounds unloaded with an overall length of 40.5 inches and 20-inch barrel. The 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters while maintaining the compact profile that makes it maneuverable in blinds or thick brush. The synthetic stock contributes to the light weight compared to walnut alternatives that typically add 10-12 ounces.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for right-handed shooters or anyone needing long-range precision beyond 250 yards. The left-hand bolt configuration creates ejection issues for right-handed operators, while the .400 Legend cartridge's rainbow trajectory makes 300-yard shots challenging compared to flatter-shooting cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor. Competitive shooters and long-range hunters should consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with pre-mounted 3-9x40mm Weaver scope, one 4-round detachable magazine, and swivel studs installed. The scope comes bore-sighted at 100 yards, saving approximately 20 minutes of range time compared to unmounted optics. No tools are included for AccuTrigger adjustment, requiring separate purchase of a hex wrench set for proper trigger weight customization.
Is the Savage Axis XP Compact Gen II worth it at $414.99?
At $414.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for left-handed hunters in straight-wall states. The included scope alone retails for $80-100 separately, while left-hand bolt actions typically command $50-75 premiums over right-hand models. Compared to custom-converted rifles that start at $600+, this factory-left-hand configuration represents a 30% savings for compliant hunting.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320360 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32036 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20'' |
| caliber/gauge | .400 Legend |
| capacity | 4-Round |
| color | Black |
| length | 39.5'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis XP Compact GEN II |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 8.2 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.45 |
| sights | No |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .400 Legend ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles all SAAMI-spec .400 Legend ammunition including Federal Power-Shok 200gr and Winchester Deer Season XP 200gr. We experienced zero feeding issues during testing with both factory loads and handloads within published pressure limits. The 1:16 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 180gr to 220gr effectively.
- Does the scope mount include rings?
- The Weaver scope comes pre-mounted with medium-height rings that provide adequate clearance for the 40mm objective. The rings use standard 1-inch bases that accept most aftermarket optics if desired. No additional hardware is required for immediate use straight from the box.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Shipping typically requires 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time to your selected FFL. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery. You must provide your FFL's contact information and license before shipment can be processed.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired firearms in original packaging, subject to 15% restocking fee. Fired firearms cannot be returned due to federal regulations regarding used firearm sales. We recommend confirming fit at your local FFL before completing paperwork if uncertain about length of pull or overall fit.