SAVAGE AXIS II
Posted May 19, 2023
When discussing the Savage Axis II, it’s hard to overstate just how popular this rifle has become. For many years, Savage has been synonymous with exceptional quality and value, and the Axis II is simply a continuation of that legacy. At first glance, this rifle might appear to be a bare-bones entry-level model, but don’t let this fool you. Under the hood, the Axis II packs a tremendous punch, and stands out as a testament to the exceptional quality Savage brings to the table.
At its core, the Savage Axis II is a bolt-action rifle that’s constructed from stainless steel and carbon steel, and it includes a free-floating, button-rifled barrel. It’s been configured to fire from a 4-round detachable magazine, and it features what Savage calls its “AccuTrigger” – which is adjustable from a low of 2.5 pounds, to a high of 6 pounds. This innovation not only makes the Axis II inherently safer to shoot, but it also benefits the accuracy that the gun is capable of delivering.
Aside from the AccuTrigger, the Axis II has a host of additional features that enhance its performance. It comes with a Picatinny rail that’s great for both optics and accessories, as well as a tough synthetic stock with soft-touch materials and an adjustable length of pull that makes shooting more comfortable, no matter the size of the shooter. This stock also has quite a few M-LOK attachment points, offering even more opportunities for accessories and customization.
When it comes to how the Axis II performs, this rifle is nothing short of exceptional. It is completely reliable and feeds from its detachable magazines without so much as a hiccup. The bolt of the Axis II is smooth and fast, and it takes advantage of the AccuTrigger to make accurate shooting easier than ever. The trigger itself breaks cleanly and has virtually no creep or take-up, which makes it a pleasure to shoot.
Accuracy-wise, the Axis II is no slouch, either. In fact, it quite simply is one of the most accurate rifles in its class – if not the most accurate rifle period. We tested the Axis II alongside several other rifles in its class and it outperformed them all. We were able to easily shoot sub-one-inch groups at 100 yards regularly, which is nothing short of impressive.
In terms of visuals, the Axis II impresses here as well. It has a sleek and modern look that is further accentuated by its stainless steel barrel and soft-touch synthetic stock. The gun also has a quality finish that is sure to last, and its camo pattern makes it even more pleasing to the eye.
Finally, the Savage Axis II comes in at a remarkably competitive price point. You can pick up this rifle for just under $500, making it an absolute bargain in a market saturated with more expensive options. For the quality and performance that you get from the Axis II, it is the clear winner when it comes to value.
At the end of the day, there’s no denying just how great the Savage Axis II is. It combines exceptional quality and performance with a remarkably competitive price, and it all adds up to make this rifle one of the best in its class. Whether you’re looking for a reliable hunting rifle or a great all-around rifle, the Axis II is an excellent choice – and it has earned its place among the elite.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Accurate and reliable
-Versatile
-Affordably priced
-Wide variety of calibers available
-Lightweight and compact
-Synthetic stock is durable and weatherproof
Cons:
-Relatively expensive for entry-level
-Recoil can be harsh
-Trigger pull is heavy
-Limited options for accessories
-Stock design not suitable for everyone
Who Should Buy
Those who should buy the Savage Axis II rifle should be experienced shooters, hunters, or someone who is looking for a dependable and accurate weapon. Those who should not buy the Savage Axis II are those looking for a high-powered assault rifle or for a weapon of home-defense.
Comparisons
| Product | Weight | Barrel Length | Capacity | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAVAGE AXIS II | 7.2 lbs | 22" | 4+1 | Matte Black |
| SAVAGE 110 Storm | 7.4 lbs | 22" | 4+1 | Matte Black |
| REMINGTON 700 SPS | 7.5 lbs | 22" | 4+1 | Matte Black |
| REMINGTON 700 ADL | 8.5 lbs | 22" | 4+1 | Matte Black |
Features / Specs
• Model: Savage Axis II
• Magazine Capacity: 4 rounds
• Barrel Length: 22 inches
• Overall Length: 43.875 inches
• Stock: Synthetic
• Weight: 6.5 lbs.
• Length of Pull: 13.75 inches
• Twist Rate: 1 in 10-inches
• Sights: Drilled and tapped for scope mounts
• Choke: None
• Trigger: Adjustable for weight of pull
Popular Accessories
- Scope/optic
- Bipod
- Sling
- Recoil Pad
- Replacement Trigger
- Magazine Extension
- Picatinny Rail
- Flashlight/Laser
- Stock Pack
- Cheek Pad
Accuracy
The Savage Axis II is a reliable and accurate rifle. It is equipped with a crisp, user-adjustable AccuTrigger that allows you to set the trigger pull to your desired weight. The Savage Axis II comes with a smooth-feeding detachable box magazine that makes loading and unloading easy and convenient. The free-floating barrel is button rifled with five-groove rifling and is designed to provide excellent accuracy in any and all shooting conditions. Additionally, the rifle utilizes a three-position tang safety, offering an additional level of safety while in the field. With its long list of features, accuracy is one of the Savage Axis II's standout features. Many users have reported excellent accuracy when using match-grade factory ammunition, and even better accuracy is achievable with hand-loads tailored for the individual rifle.
