Built on the famous Axis platform, the Savage Axis II XP is a centrefire rifle that boasts amazing accuracy and reliable performance. It features a number of enhancements that differentiates it from its predecessor. One is the inclusion of the AccuTrigger system that lets shooters customise the trigger pull to their preference. The other is the addition of the mounted and bore-sighted Weaver Kaspa 3-9x40mm scope. These improvements, combined with the quality and dependability that Savage Arms is known for, make the Axis II a superb firearm from the box to the field.

Basic specifications

• Length – 43.875”
• Barrel Length – 22”
• Weight – 6.5 lbs.
• Range of Twist – 1 in 9” to 1 in 12” (depending on calibre)
• Magazine Capacity – 4 rounds in detachable magazine

The Savage Axis II XP is a centrefire rifle developed by Savage Arms and released in early 2014. This rifle is the latest variation on the base of the Savage Axis, which is popular for its high accuracy and great performance, as well as its budget price.

Just like its predecessor, the Savage Axis II rifle has a black matte finish synthetic stock with textured grip and 2 sling mounts. Its carbon steel barrel is button-rifled, ensuring superb accuracy with every shot. The bolt also comes with a floating bolt head, which has a second sliding piece designed to allow some movement and keep the bolt face in complete contact with the cartridge. And like all Savage rifles, the Axis II has headspace control that guarantees the cartridge seating is at the best position for stable bullet spin and accuracy.

Setting the Savage Axis II apart from its precursor are a few notable enhancements. One of them is the inclusion of the company’s patented AccuTrigger, which is touted by many as one of the finest stock triggers in the market. This uniquely designed trigger has a crisp and creep-free trigger pull that is also adjustable from 1.5 to 6 lbs. As traditional triggers have very light trigger pull, the risk of accidental discharge through dropping or jarring is increased. The AccuTrigger aims to solve this problem and prevent instances wherein the trigger would not accidentally go off even at the lowest trigger pull.

The AccuTrigger also features the silver-coloured AccuRelease trigger bar that extends in front of the actual trigger. It provides the shooter a feel of the pull. This helps remove shooter error by trigger jerking and offers an opportunity for a consistent trigger pull.

Another thing that one can expect from the Savage Axis II is the inclusion of the Weaver Kaspa 3-9x40mm scope that comes in mounted and bore-sighted from the factory. This scope, crafted by Weaver, has a 1”-diameter tube, and a 40mm fully multi-coated objective lens that provides amazingly clear images and unobstructed views of the surroundings. It also has a fast focus eyepiece and finger-adjustable turrets, and is waterproof and shockproof.

These additions in the Savage Axis II put the rifle at a higher price point than that of the Savage Axis. The difference is not that big, though, and the rifle’s ultra-reliable performance even straight out of the box very much makes up for its price tag.

A common observation of many Savage Axis II users and owners is the rifle’s stock. Utilising hollow plastic instead of the usual wood for the rifle is perceived as a downside by many. This may easily be solved, though, by replacing the component with aftermarket stocks.

Regardless of these shortcomings, shooters and hunters still choose the Savage Axis II as their entry-level combination rifle due to its accuracy and dependability on the field. And because it is already inclusive of Savage Arms’ original AccuTrigger and a mounted scope, the Axis II truly offers the best value for money for beginners and expert gun enthusiasts alike.

The Savage Axis II is available in these short and long action calibres:

• 22-250 Rem
• 223 Rem
• 243 Win
• 25-06 Rem
• 270 Win
• 30-06 SPFLD
• 308 Win
• 7mm-08 Rem