For decades, the Savage Axis line has provided hunters and shooters with a range of options to fit their needs, from backcountry hunts to benchrest precision shoots. Now, the company has a whole new line of Axis rifles to suit the needs of a new generation of hunters and shooters, all loaded with premium features. Watch our "Gun of the Week" video above for a rundown on what Savage has included with its new Axis 2 Pro Western.
"Now, in 2024, Savage did a whole revamp of its Axis rifle line. That's really the foundation line, their budget flagship bolt-action rifle," American Rifleman Executive Editor Evan Brune said. "And they took a look at the concept, and they decided that they could refine a few features. And the Axis 2 Pro really is the culmination of everything they could think to build into a budget bolt-action rifle that has everything you need and a few little extras, too."
At the heart of the Savage Axis 2 is an entirely redesigned stock, which features new ergonomics that are mirrored on either side, making the gun accessible to both left- and right-handed shooters without any adjustment required. The bolt handle has also been totally redesigned to provide a more natural, ergonomic feel, ensuring shooters can quickly and easily operate the action.
"Savage has gotten a couple of exclusive camouflage patterns, and these are options you can only get in the Pro series of the Axis 2," Brune said. "This particular camouflage is the Western pattern, so if you like the look of this rifle, you got to go with the Pro."
Other features of the Savage Axis 2 Pro include a Cerakote-finished receiver and barrel, along with a threaded muzzle. A detachable, flush-fit box magazine sits just forward of the trigger guard, and it can be easily removed by operating a tab at the front of the magazine body. Our test rifle was chambered for the 6.5 mm Creedmoor cartridge and was equipped with a 20-inch barrel.
"But you know, since it is the Savage Axis line, there's tons of different chambering, tons of barrel lengths," Brune said. "So you're going to find something that fits whatever your need is."
For more information on the Savage Arms Axis 2 Pro Western, visit savagearms.com.
