Description
Picture this: you’re in a Missouri deer blind, the sun’s just starting to peek through the timber, and you need a rifle that’s light, handy, and hits with authority in thick cover. That’s the exact scenario where the Savage Axis II Compact, 350 Legend, 18″ Barrel, Black Color, Black Polymer Stock, 4Rd, Detachable Box Magazine shines. It’s a purpose-built, compact bolt-action rifle chambered in the straight-walled 350 Legend cartridge, designed for hunters who value a short, maneuverable package without sacrificing terminal performance. I’ve put a few boxes of Winchester Deer Season XP through one, and here’s what you need to know.
The Savage Axis II Compact is a no-fuss hunting tool. The 18-inch barrel keeps the overall length down for easy handling in stands or brush, while the 350 Legend cartridge delivers plenty of energy for deer-sized game within 200 yards. The black polymer stock is durable and weather-resistant, and the 4-round detachable box magazine is a practical feature for quick unloading. At a price of $409.17, it represents a straightforward value in the hunting rifle market. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features & Handling
Let’s start with the cartridge. The 350 Legend was engineered for states with straight-walled cartridge regulations, and it’s found a strong following right here in the Midwest. It has significantly less recoil than a .450 Bushmaster but more punch than a .300 Blackout, making it a fantastic middle-ground option. The rifle’s compact configuration, with its shorter length of pull, is ideal for younger shooters or those with a smaller frame, but it doesn’t feel like a toy. The AccuTrigger is the star of the Axis II system—it’s user-adjustable and breaks cleanly, a huge step up from spongy factory triggers on other budget rifles. I found mine was drop-in ready right from the box, with a crisp pull that made shooting off the bench a pleasant surprise.
The black synthetic stock is utilitarian. It’s not going to win beauty contests, but it’s lightweight and you won’t worry about scratching it on a rock or tree bark. The 18-inch barrel is button-rifled and crowned, providing more than enough accuracy for ethical hunting shots. The detachable magazine is a simple, reliable design that pops in and out without fuss. Weighing in at approximately 6.1 pounds, this is a rifle you can carry all day without it becoming an anchor. The 4-round capacity (3+1) is perfectly adequate for hunting applications and keeps the profile slim.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 350 Legend |
| Barrel Length | 18 Inches |
| Overall Length | 38.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 6.1 lbs (Approx.) |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 Rounds (Detachable Box) |
| Stock Material | Black Polymer |
Pros & Cons
The Good: The adjustable AccuTrigger is a genuine performance enhancer. The compact size and light weight make it exceptionally easy to handle. The 350 Legend is an effective, low-recoil hunting round that’s widely available. The price point is very accessible for a feature-packed rifle. The detachable magazine is a practical convenience.
The Considerations: The stock is basic and may benefit from an aftermarket upgrade for those seeking a more precise cheek weld. The 18-inch barrel sacrifices some muzzle velocity compared to a 22-inch model, but for the intended brush and timber ranges, the trade-off for maneuverability is worth it. The finish is matte and functional, not fancy.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is a perfect first deer rifle for a Missouri youth hunter, thanks to its compact dimensions and manageable 350 Legend recoil. It’s also an excellent choice for any hunter who spends time in dense cover or a tight box blind where a long barrel is a hassle. If you’re looking for a dedicated, affordable tool for whitetail, hog, or black bear hunting in regulated states, this Axis II Compact setup makes a lot of sense. It pairs well with a compact scope like a Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 or a Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 350 Legend sufficient for Missouri whitetail deer?
A: Absolutely. With proper shot placement and quality ammunition (like Federal Premium 180gr Soft Points or Winchester 165gr Power-Point), the 350 Legend is more than capable of taking deer cleanly at typical Midwestern hunting distances.
Q: Can an adult of average size shoot this “Compact” model comfortably?
A: Yes, but it depends. The shorter length of pull (about 12.5″) might feel a bit cramped for a taller shooter in heavy clothing. For most, it’s perfectly shootable, and the ease of handling often outweighs the slight compromise in fit.
Q: What’s included with the rifle?
A: The rifle comes with one 4-round detachable magazine. Scope bases are not included, but it uses standard Savage 110 front/rear scope mounting holes (weaver-style). Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when shipping.
If the idea of a lightweight, hard-hitting compact rifle for the woods lines up with your hunting style, the Savage Axis II Compact in 350 Legend deserves a close look.
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