The Savage Axis has had quite the journey so far. From its launch in 2010 to the all-new series of Axis rifles launching now in 2024, there have been several variations of the Axis platform in the hands of thousands of Savage enthusiasts. With the recent re-launch of the Savage Axis series of rifles, we wanted to take some time to look back at how we got here. We’ll take a look at the history of the Axis rifle, how it has evolved, and where it is heading into the future. 

Axis Predecessor

Before the Axis was developed, there was the Stevens Model 200 rifle. The Model 200 was a “base model” of the Savage 110 rifle that was manufactured from 2005 to 2013. It came with a simple gray synthetic stock, limited caliber offerings, and an internal box magazine. While some camo and scope packages would eventually be offered, the rifle remained a relatively simple offering that came without Savage’s recently developed AccuTrigger. As the centerfire market developed, more competition began to emerge in the entry-level segment. This is where the development of the Axis would soon come into its own.

Axis Concept and Development

The concept for the Savage Axis first came in early 2009, when more firearm companies began focusing on offering more affordable centerfire rifles. To stay competitive in the market, we decided that we needed a newly designed rifle built for hunters in this segment that was not only affordable, but looked great, performed great, and would be a lasting and durable rifle. When developing the Axis, we keyed in on features such as detachable box magazines and a smooth operating bolt, which were incredibly important to consumers looking for budget rifles. By designing and manufacturing the Axis efficiently, we were able to offer the Axis at a highly competitive price point while keeping it packed with the features that mattered to consumers. 

Axis Launch 

The Axis was launched in 2010 with an MSRP of $329, and often sold at dealers for less than $300. It was a well-regarded rifle at launch, with consumers favoring the accuracy the rifle provided at an affordable price. Over time, the Axis would come out with more models until the Axis II XP was introduced in 2014. The major difference between the original Axis and the Axis II was the inclusion of Savage’s AccuTrigger in the Axis II. This brought more user adjustability to the Axis platform and provided hunters with the opportunity to further refine their rifle’s accuracy and capability. In 2018, the Axis was released with the Generation II stock, a more ergonomic upgrade to the original Axis rifle stocks. Since then, the next evolution of the Axis has been in development. 

The New Axis

Today, the next evolution of the Axis is here. The new Savage Axis is built for a wide range of hunters while still maintaining an affordable price point. From the base model Axis XP to the new Axis 2 PRO, there’s an Axis model available to match your needs. Each new Axis model is built with a new ergonomic stock, as well as a redesigned bolt handle. To check out all the features on each new model of the Savage Axis, check out this blog post.

The Savage Axis has continued to evolve throughout its history. It has become synonymous with Savage as an accurate, affordable rifle that is accessible to a wide range of hunters. The newest evolution of the Axis brings updated ergonomics and more options to the rifle series while keeping an affordable price point. As Savage moves forward with the new Axis, we’ll continue to innovate and evolve and provide consumers with the rifles they need to perform in the field.