The Savage Axis 2 XP Hardwood .223 Rem 22″ 4rd w/ 3-9×40 is a ready-to-hunt bolt-action rifle that comes from the factory with a mounted and bore-sighted 3-9×40 scope. It’s chambered in .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO, so you can shoot both common rounds without a hitch. The hardwood stock gives it a classic look and a solid feel, while the user-adjustable AccuTrigger lets you dial in the pull weight to your liking. This is a practical, no-nonsense rifle for anyone who wants to hit the field or the range without spending a ton of time or money on extras.
| Manufacturer | Savage Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Axis 2 XP Hardwood |
| Material | Hardwood stock, carbon steel barrel (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO ammunition |
| Finish | Matte blued barrel and receiver |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs (approx., per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- User-Adjustable AccuTrigger — You can adjust the trigger pull from about 2.5 to 6 pounds without any special tools. Why it matters: A lighter, crisper trigger means you can shoot more accurately, especially when you’re squeezing off a shot at a deer or a coyote in low light.
- Factory-Mounted 3-9×40 Scope — The scope comes already mounted and bore-sighted from Savage. Why it matters: You don’t have to buy a separate scope or pay a gunsmith to mount it. Just zero it in and you’re ready to hunt.
- Detachable 4-Round Magazine — The rifle uses a box magazine that pops out with a button release. Why it matters: Reloading is faster and safer than fumbling with an internal magazine. Plus, you can carry a spare loaded mag in your pocket.
- 22-Inch Sporter Barrel — The barrel is lightweight and tapered for easy carrying in the field. Why it matters: A sporter barrel keeps the rifle balanced and handles well on long walks, without the extra weight of a heavy varmint barrel.
- Hardwood Stock with Checkering — The stock is made from real walnut or similar hardwood, with a satin finish and cut checkering on the grip and forend. Why it matters: Hardwood looks great and feels warm in your hands, and the checkering gives you a secure hold even with gloves on.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for hunters who want a reliable, accurate bolt gun without breaking the bank. It’s a great choice for new shooters who are getting into deer hunting or varmint control, as well as experienced hunters who need a backup or a lightweight walk-around rifle. If you’re looking for a .223 that can handle coyotes, groundhogs, or paper targets, this fits the bill. It’s also a solid pick for anyone who wants a rifle that’s ready to shoot right out of the box.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: The AccuTrigger is genuinely adjustable and makes a big difference in accuracy — you can feel the improvement compared to a standard trigger.
- Pro: The included scope is decent for the price and saves you the hassle of buying and mounting one separately.
- Pro: The hardwood stock looks and feels more premium than synthetic stocks at this price point.
- Con: The action can feel a bit stiff when cycling the bolt, especially when new. It does smooth out with use, but it’s not as slick as a higher-end rifle. That’s an honest trade-off for the price.
Comparison
| Feature | Savage Axis 2 XP Hardwood | Ruger American Ranch | Howa 1500 Mini |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO | .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO | .223 Rem |
| Barrel Length | 22″ | 16.12″ | 20″ |
| Stock Material | Hardwood | Synthetic | Synthetic or wood |
| Trigger | AccuTrigger (adjustable) | Ruger Marksman (adjustable) | Howa 2-stage |
| Magazine | Detachable 4-round | Detachable 4-round (AR-style) | Detachable 5-round |
| Average Price | $635.83 | $579.00 | $649.00 |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs | 6.2 lbs | 7.2 lbs |
FAQ
Does this rifle come with the scope already mounted and sighted in?
Yes. The scope is factory-mounted and bore-sighted. You’ll still need to do a final zero with your preferred ammunition, but it’s close enough to start shooting right away.
Can I use .223 Rem and 5.56 NATO ammunition in this rifle?
Yes. Savage lists this rifle as chambered for .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO, so you can safely shoot both types of ammunition.
Is the AccuTrigger adjustable without a gunsmith?
Yes. You can adjust the trigger pull weight yourself using the included tool. It adjusts from about 2.5 to 6 pounds, so you can set it where you’re most comfortable.
How many rounds does the magazine hold?
The rifle comes with one detachable 4-round magazine. Extra magazines are available separately.
What is the barrel twist rate?
According to Savage specs, the 22-inch barrel has a 1-in-9 twist rate, which stabilizes most common .223 bullets from 55 to 69 grains well.
✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
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Last updated: April 2026
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