Description
Savage gave the Axis line its biggest overhaul since the platform launched in 2010, and the Axis 2 XP is the version most folks should be looking at. This 5.56 NATO model (part number 33171) pairs a 20 inch matte black carbon steel barrel with a factory mounted, boresighted 3-9x40mm scope, so the only thing standing between you and the range is a box of ammo. The button-rifled barrel comes threaded from the factory, which means adding a suppressor or muzzle device down the road is as simple as spinning one on.
What Makes the Axis 2 XP Different
The big one is the AccuTrigger. Savage's user-adjustable trigger used to be reserved for pricier rifles, and having it on an Axis at this level changes the whole shooting experience. You get a crisp, clean break you can tune to your preference without a trip to the gunsmith. The redesigned gray synthetic stock is another real upgrade over the old Axis, with a contoured pistol grip, ambidextrous palm swells, and improved texturing on the grip and forend that keeps things secure when your hands are cold or wet. The reshaped bolt handle is easier to run with gloves on, and the two-position tang safety sits right under your thumb where it belongs.
A 5.56 Bolt Gun That Earns Its Keep
Chambered in 5.56 NATO, this rifle happily digests .223 Remington too, which makes it a flexible choice for coyotes, foxes, prairie dogs, and general range work with cheap, easy-to-find ammo. The detachable 4-round box magazine keeps reloads quick, thread-in headspacing helps deliver the accuracy Savage barrels are known for, and the receiver is drilled and tapped if you ever want to swap the included glass for something else.
Ready to Shoot Out of the Box
For a first centerfire rifle, a truck gun, or a dedicated varmint rig, the Axis 2 XP covers a lot of ground without a big spend. Sight in the scope, dial the trigger to your liking, and go shoot.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Savage Arms
- Model: Axis 2 XP
- Manufacturer Part Number: 33171
- UPC: 011356331717
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO (.223 Rem compatible)
- Action: Bolt Action
- Capacity: 4+1
- Barrel Length: 20 inches
- Barrel: Matte black carbon steel, button rifled, threaded muzzle
- Receiver: Drilled and tapped
- Stock: Gray synthetic with pistol grip and ambidextrous palm swells
- Trigger: User-adjustable AccuTrigger
- Optic: 3-9x40mm scope, factory mounted and boresighted
- Safety: Two-position tang safety
- Orientation: Right hand
What’s Included
- Savage Axis 2 XP bolt action rifle
- Factory mounted and boresighted 3-9x40mm duplex scope
- One 4-round detachable box magazine
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Savage Axis 2 XP in 5.56 NATO shoot .223 Remington ammo?
Yes. Since this rifle is chambered in 5.56 NATO, it will safely handle both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition. That gives you a ton of flexibility, since .223 is one of the most affordable and widely available centerfire cartridges out there.
Does the Axis 2 XP come with the scope already mounted?
It does. The 3-9x40mm scope arrives factory mounted and boresighted, with fully multi-coated lenses and tool-less windage and elevation adjustments. You'll still want to fine-tune zero at the range with your chosen ammo, but the heavy lifting is done for you.
Is the trigger on the Axis 2 XP adjustable?
Yes, this model includes Savage's user-adjustable AccuTrigger, which is the main upgrade over the standard Axis XP. It gives you a crisp, creep-free break and lets you set the pull weight to your preference using the included adjustment method. It also has a built-in safety blade that blocks the sear unless the trigger is pressed deliberately.
Can I put a suppressor on the Savage Axis 2 XP?
The 20 inch barrel comes threaded from the factory, so it's set up to accept a suppressor or other muzzle device. Just match your device to the muzzle thread pattern and you're in business. The 5.56 chambering is a popular one for suppressed varmint setups.




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