In the hunting market where custom hunting rifles often carry premium price tags, Savage has always provided a compelling case that accuracy and reliability don’t have to break the bank.
Their new Savage Axis 2 Pro chambered in the popular 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge and paired with Tract Optics’ 2.5-15x44mm scope promises to deliver excellent performance at a fraction of the cost of higher-end alternatives.
After extensive range testing with two popular factory ammunition options, we can confidently say this setup punches well above its price.
First Impressions and Build Quality
The Savage Axis 2 Pro immediately distinguishes itself from its predecessors with thoughtful upgrades that address common complaints about budget rifles. The new vertical grip stock is much more suitable for long-range shooting and feels more rigid than earlier Axis models. The textured grip surfaces provide confident handling even in wet conditions, and the length of pull feels appropriate for most adult shooters without requiring aftermarket adjustments.
The 20-inch barrel and action feature an attractive Gun Metal Bronze Cerakote finish that provides superior corrosion resistance and durability compared to traditional blued steel. This ceramic-based coating not only looks distinctive but also offers exceptional protection against the elements.
The button rifling provides consistent accuracy potential, and the barrel profile strikes a good balance between weight savings and heat dissipation, making it suitable for both hunting scenarios and range sessions. The threaded muzzle adds versatility for those wanting to add a suppressor or muzzle brake.
The rifle’s most notable upgrade, which occurred several years ago, remains impressive for a budget rifle. Gone is the mushy, unpredictable trigger that plagued earlier budget Savage models. The AccuTrigger system on the Axis 2 Pro breaks cleanly at approximately 3.5 pounds with minimal overtravel. While not quite match-grade, it’s more than adequate for hunting applications and represents a significant step up from typical budget rifle triggers.
However, the rifle does have a couple of minor drawbacks that are also worth noting. The action is built to full-length dimensions despite the 6.5 Creedmoor being a short-action cartridge – a cost-saving manufacturing decision that results in a slightly longer and heavier rifle than necessary. Additionally, while functional and reliable, the bolt action isn’t as smooth as some of the other affordable rifle offerings.
Optics Choice: Tract Toric UHD 2.5-15x44mm
Selecting the right optic for a budget rifle requires careful consideration. Too cheap, and you negate the rifle’s accuracy potential. Too expensive, and you’ve defeated the purpose of choosing an affordable platform. The Tract Toric UHD 2.5-15x44mm with MRAD illuminated reticle occupies the sweet spot between performance and value. Many experienced hunters today will recommend spending more on the optic than the rifle.
The scope’s first focal plane design means the reticle subtensions remain accurate at any magnification level, a crucial feature for hunters who might need to dial down magnification for close shots or increase it for longer ranges. The MRAD reticle provides precise holdover points without cluttering the sight picture, and the illumination system proves useful during dawn and dusk hunting periods.
The optical system truly sets this scope apart from its price competition. Tract’s advanced UHD (Ultra High Definition) optical system incorporates fully multi-coated SCHOTT HT (High Transmission) glass elements paired with extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses.
This combination of premium glass technologies is typically reserved for scopes costing two to three times more, making the Toric UHD an exceptional value proposition. The result is remarkably clear, bright images with minimal chromatic aberration and excellent color fidelity across the entire magnification range.
Edge-to-edge clarity remains sharp through most of the magnification range, with only slight distortion appearing at the very edges on maximum magnification. Light transmission is impressive, extending usable shooting time into marginal lighting conditions where lesser optics would leave hunters guessing. The turrets deserve special mention for their exceptional feel – they’re smooth as silk during adjustment yet provide positive, tactile clicks that can be felt and heard even while wearing gloves.
This combination of smoothness and tactile feedback inspires confidence during field adjustments and contributes to the scope’s overall precision potential.
Range Testing Methodology
Testing took place over multiple range sessions spanning various weather conditions. Primary accuracy testing was conducted from a solid bench rest at 100 yards using 5-shot groups, with groups measured center-to-center.
Extended range capability was evaluated at 300 yards using 6-inch and 12-inch steel targets to assess real-world hunting performance. The rifle was allowed to cool between groups, and all results represent averages from at least three separate 5-shot groups per ammunition type.
Before testing began, the rifle was properly broken in with 40 rounds of mixed ammunition, and the scope was mounted using quality rings torqued to specification. The rifle was zeroed at 100 yards before accuracy testing commenced.
Hornady Precision Hunter 143 Grain Performance
The Hornady Precision Hunter line represents modern hunting ammunition at its finest, combining match-grade accuracy with proven terminal performance in the field. The 143-grain ELD-X bullet is designed to provide controlled expansion across a wide range of velocities, making it ideal for the 6.5 Creedmoor’s versatile performance envelope.
From the Axis 2 Pro’s 20-inch barrel, the Precision Hunter ammunition averaged 2,680 feet per second, slightly below the advertised velocity but well within expected parameters for the barrel length. Consistency proved excellent, with standard deviation measuring just 18 feet per second across a 20-round sample.
Accuracy results were impressive for a budget rifle setup. Three consecutive 5-shot groups averaged 0.95 inches, with the best group measuring 0.72 inches. This level of precision opens up ethical shot opportunities well beyond typical hunting ranges, assuming the shooter can do their part. At 300 yards, the rifle consistently connected with both 6-inch and 12-inch steel targets, demonstrating its capability for longer-range hunting scenarios where precise shot placement is critical.
The ammunition showed no pressure signs and extracted cleanly. Feed reliability was flawless throughout testing, with the Axis 2 Pro’s magazine system handling the polymer-tipped bullets without issue.
Federal Fusion 140 Grain Analysis
Federal Fusion represents a different philosophy in hunting ammunition design. Rather than pursuing maximum accuracy, Fusion prioritizes reliable terminal performance and value. The 140-grain soft-point bullet utilizes Federal’s pressure-formed core bonding process to ensure weight retention and consistent expansion.
Velocity from the test rifle averaged 2,720 feet per second, again slightly below advertised specifications but consistent with real-world expectations. The ammunition proved remarkably consistent, with velocity variations staying within a narrow band throughout testing.
Accuracy, while not quite matching the Precision Hunter results, remained more than adequate for hunting applications. The average group size from three 5-shot groups measured 1.15 inches, with the best group breaking the one-inch barrier. At 300 yards, the Federal Fusion ammunition also performed well on steel targets, though with slightly less consistency than the Precision Hunter loads. For hunters prioritizing terminal performance over precision accuracy, these results validate Federal Fusion as an excellent choice.
The ammunition’s feeding and extraction characteristics proved flawless, and the traditional soft-point bullets showed no signs of deformation during magazine cycling.
Field Performance Considerations
While range accuracy provides important baseline data, hunting performance involves several additional factors. The Axis 2 Pro’s relatively light weight makes it well-suited for extended carries in the field, and the camo synthetic stock will help the rifle blend into the surroundings. The rifle’s balance point sits slightly forward of the trigger guard, providing steady off-hand shooting characteristics as well as stability on the bench.
The scope’s magnification range proves versatile for various hunting scenarios. The 2.5x low end provides a generous field of view for closer shots, while the 15x maximum magnification allows precise shot placement at extended ranges. The illuminated reticle proved particularly valuable during low light conditions when contrast between target and background remained marginal.
Both ammunition choices demonstrated terminal performance characteristics that should satisfy most hunting requirements. The Hornady ELD-X bullet’s high ballistic coefficient provides flatter trajectory and better wind resistance for longer shots, while the Federal Fusion bullet offers proven expansion and penetration for closer encounters.
Value Proposition
When evaluating the complete package cost, this combination delivers exceptional value. The rifle and scope together cost significantly less than many premium rifle models alone, yet provide accuracy and reliability that meets or exceeds hunting requirements. For shooters building their first precision hunting rifle or those wanting maximum performance per dollar spent, this combination merits serious consideration.
The ammunition costs represent a more ongoing consideration. While the Hornady Precision Hunter commands a premium price, its accuracy and terminal performance justify the expense for hunters prioritizing precision. The Federal Fusion offers excellent value for hunters who need reliable performance without premium pricing for more common hunting distances.
Final Verdict
The Savage Axis 2 Pro in 6.5 Creedmoor, when properly equipped with quality optics like the Tract Toric UHD, transforms from a simple budget rifle into a capable precision hunting platform. Both ammunition options tested provide performance levels that satisfy most practical hunting requirements, with the choice between them depending largely on individual priorities and budgets.
This combination proves that modern manufacturing techniques and design improvements have elevated budget rifles to performance levels that were previously available only in premium models. For hunters who demand accuracy and reliability without premium pricing, the Axis 2 Pro deserves serious consideration.
Specifications
Savage Axis 2 Pro Rifle:
• Finish: Gun Metal Bronze Cerakote on action and barrel
• Barrel Length: 20 inches
• Stock Length of Pull: 13.75 inches
• Overall Length: 41.25 inches
• Weight: 6.8 pounds
• Stock: Synthetic with textured grip surfaces
• Trigger: AccuTrigger, adjustable from 2.5-6 pounds
• Magazine Capacity: 4 rounds
• Barrel Twist: 1:8 inches
• Muzzle: Threaded for suppressors/muzzle devices
• MSRP: $599
Tract Toric UHD 2.5-15x44mm Scope:
• Magnification: 2.5-15x
• Objective Diameter: 44mm
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: MRAD Illuminated (First Focal Plane)
• Eye Relief: 4/3.9
• Exit Pupil: 11.4/2.9
• Field of View: 41.7/7.1 (Low Power/High Power in feet @ 100 yards)
• Weight: 29.8 ounces
• Length: 14 inches
• Locking Turret: Yes – Elevation Only with Zero Reset
• Turret Adjustment: 0.1 MRAD clicks
• Maximum Internal Adjustment: 30 MRAD elevation, 20 MRAD windage
• MSRP: $994
Where To Buy
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