For those who have a passion for long-range shooting or hunting, finding a rifle that balances performance and affordability can be a challenging endeavor. Many firearms cater to either the high-end market or the budget-conscious consumer, often leaving buyers feeling like they must compromise on quality to stay within their price range. The Savage Axis XP 2 aims to eliminate that dilemma by offering a budget-friendly option that doesnโt skimp on accuracy, durability, or versatility. In this review, weโll explore what makes the Savage Axis XP 2 a standout choice for gun enthusiasts and hunters alike.
Overview: First Impressions of the Savage Axis XP 2
At first glance, the Savage Axis XP 2 may not stand out visually compared to higher-end rifles, but donโt let that deceive you. The rifle’s streamlined and minimalist design actually hides some of the features that make it a reliable and accurate tool for long-range shooting.
The Savage Axis XP 2 is chambered in several popular calibers, including .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and 6.5 Creedmoor, offering versatility for various types of shooting and hunting applications. This variety is essential for shooters looking to optimize their rifle for specific types of game or distances. For instance, the 6.5 Creedmoor is well-known for its exceptional long-range ballistics, making it a go-to option for precision shooting, while the .308 and .30-06 are reliable for both long-distance and big-game hunting.
One of the more appealing aspects of this rifle is that it comes with a factory-mounted and bore-sighted scope. This may seem like a basic feature, but for first-time rifle buyers or those looking to streamline their setup process, itโs a significant selling point. Not only does it save money by avoiding a separate scope purchase, but it also provides a convenient way to start shooting almost right out of the box.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
One of the common complaints about budget rifles is that they often sacrifice ergonomics and comfort for price, but the Savage Axis XP 2 impresses in this regard. The rifle features a synthetic stock thatโs both lightweight and durable. While it doesnโt have the high-end feel of wood or composite stocks found on pricier models, it certainly doesnโt feel cheap. More importantly, it offers a comfortable shooting experience.
The stock also comes with a recoil pad, which makes shooting more enjoyable, particularly when dealing with heavier calibers like the .30-06. The Axis XP 2โs overall weight comes in at about 6.5 to 7 pounds, making it light enough to carry during a dayโs hunt but not so light that it affects recoil management or stability when aiming downrange.
Savageโs decision to go with a detachable box magazine rather than an internal one adds another layer of convenience. Reloading is quick and easy, and the magazine feeds reliably without jamming issues that can sometimes plague budget rifles.
Accuracy: Living Up to the Hype
Now, letโs talk about what really matters: accuracy. No matter how budget-friendly a rifle is, if it doesnโt shoot straight, itโs not worth your time. Thankfully, the Savage Axis XP 2 delivers in this department.
Savage has earned a solid reputation for producing accurate rifles, and the Axis XP 2 benefits from the company’s famous button-rifled barrel. The barrel is free-floated, which prevents it from making contact with the stock and contributing to inconsistencies in shot placement. This feature is more commonly found in higher-end rifles, so its inclusion in a rifle at this price point is impressive.
In testing, the Savage Axis XP 2 consistently produced 1.5 MOA (Minute of Angle) or better, depending on the ammunition used and shooting conditions. For those unfamiliar with MOA, itโs a measurement of accuracy, and anything around 1 MOA is excellent for hunting or long-range shooting applications. Considering the rifle’s price range, achieving sub-2 MOA accuracy is quite remarkable and more than sufficient for most hunters and target shooters.
Itโs worth noting that the included scopeโwhile convenientโisnโt top-tier quality. Itโs adequate for many users, particularly beginners, but upgrading to a better optic would likely tighten shot groups even more. However, for those looking to keep their budget tight, the factory scope will certainly suffice for most practical hunting and shooting needs.
Trigger: The AccuTrigger Upgrade
Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of the Savage Axis XP 2 is the inclusion of Savage’s AccuTrigger. For years, Savageโs AccuTrigger has been one of the defining features of the brandโs rifles, offering a crisp and adjustable trigger pull without the need for a gunsmith. The Axis XP 2 benefits from this technology, providing a smooth trigger pull with minimal creep.
The trigger is adjustable down to around 2.5 pounds, which is more than sufficient for most long-range shooting and hunting scenarios. In practical terms, this means better shot control, fewer jerks, and more precise shooting. The AccuTrigger alone puts the Axis XP 2 a cut above many other budget rifles that typically come with heavier, less refined triggers.
Reliability and Durability
In terms of reliability, the Savage Axis XP 2 performs as you would expect from a rifle in this price rangeโand then some. Over multiple range sessions and different weather conditions, the rifle proved itself to be both consistent and durable. The synthetic stock and matte-blued finish contribute to its resistance to harsh weather, making it a viable option for those who hunt in unpredictable environments.
The rifleโs bolt-action system operates smoothly, though not as seamlessly as some more expensive models. Occasionally, the bolt may feel a bit stiff, particularly when cycling rounds quickly, but this is a minor issue that doesnโt detract from the overall performance.
Value for Money: Best in Class?
When it comes to getting the best bang for your buck, the Savage Axis XP 2 truly excels. Priced in the $400 to $500 range, it offers a combination of features rarely found in this price bracket. Between the AccuTrigger, button-rifled barrel, and included scope, the Axis XP 2 gives users a rifle thatโs ready for long-range shooting and hunting straight out of the box, with minimal upgrades required.
If youโre an experienced shooter, you may find some areas where youโd want to make modificationsโsuch as upgrading the scope or adding a bipodโbut even without those upgrades, the rifle performs well beyond its price point.
Conclusion: Is the Savage Axis XP 2 Right for You?
The Savage Axis XP 2 stands out as a budget-friendly rifle that doesnโt compromise on the fundamentals of accuracy, reliability, and durability. Whether youโre a new shooter looking to get into long-range shooting or an experienced hunter on a budget, this rifle is hard to beat for the price. With Savageโs reputation for accuracy and the addition of features like the AccuTrigger and a free-floated barrel, itโs a package that competes with rifles at nearly twice the cost.
If youโre in the market for an entry-level or budget-friendly rifle that still delivers solid performance, the Savage Axis XP 2 is a model worth considering.
