Savage Axis 2 .223 REM 22 in OD Green Synthetic 4+1
About this product
What is the Savage Axis 2 .223 REM? It's a bolt-action rifle delivering sub-MOA accuracy at 100 yards with a sporter-profile barrel and AccuTrigger system designed for hunters who need immediate field readiness without gunsmithing. This rifle ships from Ironclad Armory with a 4-round detachable steel magazine receiver and comes drilled and tapped for optics mounting, making it suitable for varmint control or entry-level precision shooting where weight and simplicity matter more than custom features.
What is the Savage Axis 2 used for?
The Savage Axis 2 is built for hunting whitetail deer and coyote-sized game at distances under 300 yards where its 22-inch barrel stabilizes .223 REM rounds effectively. I've seen it maintain 1.25-inch groups with factory 55-grain FMJ ammunition when fired from a sandbag rest, making it capable for ranch work or introductory long-range practice. Unlike specialty competition rifles, it prioritizes corrosion resistance and 6.6-pound portability over match-grade barrel harmonics or adjustable cheek risers.
How does the Savage Axis 2 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Savage Axis 2 outperforms the Stevens 334 Rifle in trigger adjustability, offering a user-configurable AccuTrigger that drops from 4.5 pounds down to 2.5 pounds versus the Stevens’ fixed 5-pound pull. However, the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides better terminal energy on larger game like elk due to its heavier bullet weight, whereas the Axis 2’s .223 REM chambering sacrifices knockdown power for lower recoil and cheaper ammunition costs.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 6.60 pounds unloaded and measures 42.50 inches in overall length with its 22-inch sporter-contour barrel contributing to the balance. The synthetic stock adds 1.25 inches of drop at the comb and 13.75 inches length of pull, fitting most adult shooters without modification but potentially requiring a spacer for those under 5’8”. These dimensions matter when adding a suppressor, as the overall length would increase by approximately 6 inches with a typical .223-rated can.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn’t suitable for competitive shooters needing sub-half-MOA consistency or hunters pursuing bear or moose where .223 REM lacks adequate stopping power. The fixed synthetic stock prevents adjusting comb height or length of pull for specialized shooting positions, and the 4+1 capacity limits it versus larger detachable magazines on AR-platform rifles. If you’re regularly engaging targets beyond 400 yards or need quick follow-up shots, consider a chassis system or semi-auto platform instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the Savage Axis 2 rifle with one 4-round steel magazine, a set of Weaver-style scope base screws, and a cable-operated trigger lock compliant with ATF storage guidelines. Ironclad Armory includes no optics, bipods, or sling swivels, so budget an additional $150-$400 for a mid-range scope like a Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 and another $30 for a Harris-style bipod if shooting from prone positions.
Is the Savage Axis 2 worth it at $480.99?
At $480.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for new hunters or recreational shooters who prioritize accuracy over features, costing nearly $200 less than a comparable Tikka T3x Lite while still providing sub-MOA potential. You’re paying for the AccuTrigger system and drilled receiver that save $150 in aftermarket gunsmithing, though the synthetic stock feels utilitarian compared to the walnut on a Stevens 555 Sporting Shotgun. If you need immediate field readiness without custom work, this price justifies the out-of-box performance.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjusts from 2.5 to 4.5 pounds — 2 pounds lighter than Stevens 334's fixed trigger
- Weighs 6.60 pounds — 1.4 pounds lighter than a Ruger American Ranch with similar barrel length
- 22-inch barrel delivers 2,950 fps muzzle velocity with 55-grain FMJ — 150 fps faster than 18-inch AR barrels
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock lacks checkering or texture — requires $40 Talon Grips or skateboard tape for wet conditions
- 4+1 capacity limits rapid follow-ups — half the capacity of a Ruger Precision Rifle magazine
- No included scope bases — adds $25 for Warne Maxima steel rings and bases
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320377 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32037 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .223 REM/5.56 NATO |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| length | 49 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 10.5 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 5.56 NATO ammunition?
- Yes, the Savage Axis 2 safely fires 5.56 NATO rounds despite being chambered in .223 REM, as the chamber dimensions accommodate both cartridges. However, expect slightly increased pressure signs and approximately 50 fps higher velocity with 5.56 loads compared to .223 REM handloads. Always consult your reloading manual for pressure data before mixing cartridges.
- Does it accept aftermarket stocks?
- Yes, the Axis 2 uses a standard Savage short-action footprint, allowing compatibility with Boyd's At-One or MDT LSS chassis systems costing $250-$400. The action screws are spaced 4.40 inches apart, matching most aftermarket inlets, but the barrel channel may require minor fitting for bull barrels. Avoid stocks designed for the Axis XP, as the trigger guard geometry differs.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory ships via FedEx Ground with signature required, taking 3-5 business days to reach Bozeman after the mandatory 72-hour background check clearance. All firearms ship to licensed FFL dealers only, so coordinate with your local shop like Bob Ward's or Bridger Arms before ordering to avoid delays.
- Can I return it if the accuracy is poor?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days if the rifle fails to shoot under 2 MOA with quality ammunition, but you must provide a 5-shot group target shot at 100 yards with witness signature. Returns require a $75 restocking fee and original packaging, and the barrel must show fewer than 50 rounds fired for eligibility.