Description
The savage axis 2 compact .243 win 20 in od green bolt rifle is built for the hunter who wants a shorter, lighter rifle that still hits hard out past 250 yards. I’ve spent many mornings in a cold stand with a full-size rifle, and this compact package is a welcome change for tight quarters or long hikes. Chambered in .243 Winchester, it’s a classic whitetail and varmint round that’s easy on the shoulder and accurate on target.
Per Savage Arms specs, this rifle ships with their adjustable AccuTrigger, which lets you dial the pull weight from 2.5 to 6 pounds without a gunsmith. That’s a real advantage when you’re trying to steady a shot in heavy brush or after a long stalk. The 20-inch heavy sporter barrel gives you enough weight for stable offhand shooting but keeps the overall length manageable at just over 40 inches.
The OD green synthetic stock is tough and weather-resistant, and the detachable 4-round magazine makes reloading quick. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, so you can add optics right out of the box. This is a field-ready rifle that won’t break the bank or your back.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Savage Arms |
| Model | Axis 2 Compact |
| Material | Synthetic stock, carbon steel barrel |
| Compatibility | .243 Winchester ammunition |
| Finish | OD Green stock, matte black metal |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- User-Adjustable AccuTrigger — Lets you set the trigger pull from 2.5 to 6 pounds without tools, giving you a crisp break for more consistent shots in the field.
- 20-Inch Heavy Sporter Barrel — Balances maneuverability with accuracy, keeping the rifle compact for tight stands or thick cover while still delivering sub-MOA groups at the range.
- Detachable 4-Round Magazine — Allows fast reloads and makes unloading safe and easy, especially when climbing into a stand or crossing a fence.
- Drilled and Tapped Receiver — Ready for scope mounts right out of the box, so you can mount your preferred optic without a trip to the gunsmith.
- OD Green Synthetic Stock — Resists moisture, dings, and temperature changes, and the subdued color helps you stay hidden in the woods.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter who wants a lightweight, compact bolt action for deer, hogs, or coyotes. It’s a good fit for younger shooters, women, or anyone with a shorter reach, thanks to the compact stock and 20-inch barrel. If you hunt from box blinds, ground blinds, or thick timber, this rifle handles those tight spaces better than a full-size model. It also works well for a truck gun or a backup rifle on long trips.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: AccuTrigger is adjustable on the fly, giving you a clean break without a gunsmith.
- Pro: Lightweight at 6.5 pounds, easy to carry all day.
- Con: The synthetic stock has a bit of flex under heavy bipod pressure, which can affect consistency if you’re shooting from a bench. I’d recommend bedding the action for precision work, but for hunting, it’s fine.
Comparison
| Feature | Savage Axis 2 Compact .243 | Ruger American Compact .243 | Remington 783 .243 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 in | 22 in | 22 in |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs | 6.8 lbs | 7.25 lbs |
| Trigger | AccuTrigger (2.5-6 lbs adjustable) | Ruger Marksman (3-5 lbs adjustable) | Adjustable (3-6 lbs) |
| Magazine | Detachable 4-round | Detachable 4-round | Internal 4-round |
| Stock | OD Green synthetic | Black synthetic | Black synthetic |
| Price | $456.37 | $499 | $429 |
The Savage Axis 2 Compact stands out with its shorter barrel and lighter weight, making it the most maneuverable of the three. The Ruger American has a slightly longer barrel and a comparable trigger, but it costs more. The Remington 783 is cheaper but heavier and uses an internal magazine, which is slower to reload.
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on this rifle?
Per Savage Arms specs, the .243 Winchester model has a 1:10-inch twist rate, which stabilizes bullets from 55 to 100 grains well. That covers most deer and varmint loads.
Does this rifle come with scope rings?
No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Savage scope bases, but rings are not included. You’ll need to buy bases and rings separately or a one-piece mount.
Is the stock adjustable for length of pull?
The stock is not adjustable; it’s a fixed compact design with a length of pull around 12.5 inches. That’s about an inch shorter than standard, which helps with smaller frames or heavy clothing.
Can I use this for varmint hunting?
Yes, the .243 Winchester with a 20-inch barrel is effective on coyotes and groundhogs out to 300 yards. The AccuTrigger helps with precision shots on smaller targets.
Trust & Delivery
- ✔ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✔ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day return policy
- ✔ Secure checkout
Browse more options in our Bolt Action Rifles category, or check out Rifles and Hunting Rifles for similar gear.
Last updated: April 2026
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