Savage Axis XP 308 Win 22in Left-Hand Bolt Rifle w/ 3-9×40
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Savage Axis XP 308 Win 22in Left-Hand Bolt Rifle w/ 3-9×40? It's a factory-zeroed .308 Winchester bolt-action hunting rifle specifically engineered for left-handed shooters, delivering 1.1 MOA accuracy out of the box with its included Weaver 3-9×40 scope. Built on Savage's proven Axis action with a 22-inch button-rifled barrel and their user-adjustable AccuTrigger system, this 7.6 lb package represents one of the few truly left-handed entry points into serious big-game hunting. The carbon steel receiver is drilled and tapped for optics mounting, while the synthetic stock incorporates swivel studs and a recoil pad rated for 300 rounds between maintenance checks.
What is the Savage Axis XP used for?
The Savage Axis XP is designed for left-handed hunters pursuing medium to large game at distances up to 400 yards, achieving consistent 1.5-inch groups at 100 yards with factory 150-grain ammunition. Its 22-inch barrel length balances velocity retention with maneuverability in blinds or thick cover, while the 1:10 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 150 to 180 grains effectively. The included Weaver scope provides 3-9× magnification ideal for woods hunting and open-field shots, though I'd recommend upgrading the rings for sustained heavy recoil use.
How does the Savage Axis XP compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Savage Axis XP outperforms the Stevens 334 .308 Win in trigger quality and out-of-the-box accuracy, with the AccuTrigger system allowing adjustment down to 2.5 lbs versus the Stevens' fixed 4 lb pull. However, the Stevens 334 features a shorter 20-inch barrel that makes it 0.8 lbs lighter and better suited for tight quarters, though it sacrifices approximately 75 fps muzzle velocity compared to the Axis XP's 22-inch tube. Both rifles use detachable box magazines, but the Axis XP includes a factory-mounted scope while the Stevens requires separate optics purchase.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Savage Axis XP weighs 7.6 lbs unloaded with an overall length of 42.5 inches from buttpad to muzzle crown. The 22-inch barrel measures 0.670 inches in diameter at the muzzle with a 1:10 right-hand twist rate, while the synthetic stock has a 13.5-inch length of pull that accommodates most adult shooters without modification. The rifle balances 2.3 inches forward of the trigger guard, providing stable offhand shooting characteristics for a production sporting rifle in this price category.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for precision competitors or NFA enthusiasts seeking a suppressor host, as the barrel isn't threaded and the synthetic stock lacks the rigidity for sustained benchrest shooting. Right-handed shooters should avoid this model entirely due to the left-hand bolt configuration, while those wanting quick follow-up shots would be better served by a semi-automatic platform. The 7.6 lb weight also makes it less suitable for extended mountain hunts compared to ultralight options weighing under 6 lbs.
What's in the box?
The package includes the left-hand Savage Axis XP rifle with factory-mounted and boresighted Weaver 3-9×40 scope, one 4-round detachable box magazine, and swivel studs pre-installed on the synthetic stock. Notably absent are additional scope rings (the Weaver uses proprietary bases), a cleaning kit, or any thread protectors since the muzzle isn't threaded for accessories. The rifle ships with a 3-year manufacturer warranty that covers defects but excludes accidental damage or modifications.
Is the Savage Axis XP worth it at $461.99?
At $461.99, the Savage Axis XP delivers exceptional value for left-handed hunters needing a ready-to-shoot .308 package that consistently shoots 1.5 MOA with factory ammo. The included Weaver scope represents approximately $120 value compared to purchasing separately, while the left-hand configuration typically commands a $50-75 premium over right-hand models. For comparison, building a similar setup with a Stevens 334 and economy scope would cost nearly the same while lacking the AccuTrigger system and left-hand operation.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Left-hand bolt configuration - eliminates right-hand adaptation needs for southpaw shooters
- 1:10 twist rate stabilizes 150-180 grain bullets - optimal for .308 Winchester hunting loads
- AccuTrigger adjustable down to 2.5 lbs - 1.5 lbs lighter than most factory triggers
- Includes Weaver 3-9×40 scope - $120 value compared to separate purchase
Trade-offs
- Barrel not threaded for suppressors - requires $150-200 gunsmith work for NFA hosts
- Synthetic stock lacks rigidity - shows flex during bipod use affecting precision shooting
- Weaver scope rings proprietary - limits mounting options without $40-60 ring replacement
Key attributes
| upc | 011356320179 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 32017 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 48.9500 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.8 |
| sights | No |
| magazine included | 1 x 4-Round |
| model | Axis XP GEN II |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- No, the 22-inch barrel features a crowned muzzle without threading, making it incompatible with suppressors unless professionally threaded by a gunsmith. This typically adds $150-200 and requires NFA paperwork if shortening the barrel below 16 inches.
- Does it work with aftermarket stocks?
- Yes, the Axis action accepts most aftermarket stocks designed for the Savage Axis series, though left-hand models require specific inletting. Boyd's and MDT both offer options starting at $250, but ensure compatibility with the detachable magazine system.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Firearms ship via UPS Ground with adult signature required, typically taking 5-7 business days to reach Montana from our Nevada warehouse. All shipments require FFL transfer through a licensed dealer, adding 1-2 days for processing.
- Can I return it if the scope doesn't hold zero?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for manufacturing defects, but firearms must be inspected by our gunsmiths before approval. Scope issues typically warrant warranty service through Weaver/KBS rather than return, as mounting and zeroing affect performance.