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This Savage Axis II retails for $475 and comes loaded — with features, that is. Synthetic stock (lightweight, durable), Weaver Kaspa 3-9×40 scope (clear, bright, dead-on), adjustable AccuTrigger (light, crisp, sure). It looks tactical and I suppose it is, to a degree, but truly it’s an entry-level hunting rifle. Except for that it’s also perfect for those of us who are beyond entry level, whether or not we have the mounted heads and antlers to prove it.
The detachable box magazine holds four rounds. I loaded up at the range with Hornady Match 168 gr A-MAX. And I fired off several mags’ worth, enjoying all the Axis II features. I had my two sons — age 16 and 17 — fire off several as well. A .308 is a big round but eminently shootable when the gun firing it is easy to hold and offers a decent pad on the stock. Which this Axis II does. Also, the Savage’s 22” carbon steel barrel points confidently and easily. I expected a lot more drama when firing this gun but instead I just got a big pushback into my shoulder and was rewarded with holes in my target. My sons fared similarly and immediately asked about preparing for the upcoming deer season. I told them to hang on a sec.
Cycling the bolt was smooth and sure, with spent brass chucking out near or far, depending on how fast I pulled the bolt handle up and back. The safety, mounted on center, under the path of the bolt, easily and silently clicked on and off with a push or pull of my thumb.
I’m going to have my sons run some additional rounds through it and check it’s zero on a paper target at hunting distances. Then we’ll hope for the best when gun season comes along this Fall. That’s when the real review begins.
To be continued…
—Mark Kakkuri
