The Savage Axis XP is a popular rifle among hunters and shooters, and the .350 Legend variant deserves special attention. This review delves deep into the Savage Axis XP 350 Legend, examining its performance, features, and overall value proposition. We'll explore its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if it's the right rifle for you.
What Makes the Savage Axis XP 350 Legend Stand Out?
The Savage Axis XP 350 Legend distinguishes itself through a combination of factors:
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The .350 Legend Cartridge: This relatively new cartridge offers a potent balance of power and manageable recoil. It's ideal for deer hunting within reasonable ranges, particularly in areas where higher-velocity rounds are restricted or undesirable. Its performance out to 200 yards is excellent, and the subsonic capabilities make it well-suited for suppressed shooting. The shorter cartridge length also translates to increased magazine capacity.
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Accuracy and Reliability: Savage Arms are known for their accuracy, and the Axis XP doesn't disappoint. The AccuTrigger system provides a crisp, adjustable trigger pull, enhancing accuracy. The rifle's reliability is also consistently praised, with users reporting few malfunctions.
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User-Friendly Features: The Savage Axis XP 350 Legend boasts a relatively lightweight design, making it comfortable to carry during extended hunts. Its simple, robust construction makes for easy maintenance.
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Affordable Price: Compared to other rifles in its class, the Savage Axis XP 350 Legend offers remarkable value for money. It's a high-performing rifle that doesn't break the bank.
Performance Analysis: Accuracy, Recoil, and Range
The 350 Legend in the Axis XP platform consistently delivers impressive accuracy. Many users report sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups at 100 yards with factory ammunition. The manageable recoil allows for quick follow-up shots, a significant advantage in hunting situations. While the .350 Legend isn't designed for extreme long-range shooting, its effective range for deer hunting is generally considered to be within 200 yards. Beyond that, shot placement becomes more critical due to bullet drop.
Features Deep Dive: A Closer Look at the Components
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AccuTrigger: This adjustable trigger system is a significant highlight. Its ability to be customized allows for a personalized shooting experience, optimizing trigger pull weight for precision and control.
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Synthetic Stock: The durable synthetic stock is weather-resistant and lightweight, making it perfect for various hunting conditions.
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Blued Barrel: The blued barrel provides corrosion resistance and contributes to the rifle's overall durability.
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Rotary Magazine: The rotary magazine provides smooth feeding and reliable operation.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While the Savage Axis XP 350 Legend offers significant advantages, some potential drawbacks exist:
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Limited Availability of Ammunition: Being a relatively newer cartridge, the availability of .350 Legend ammunition might be slightly more limited in certain areas compared to more established calibers. However, this is improving constantly as its popularity grows.
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Not Ideal for Long-Range Shooting: This rifle isn't designed for long-range shooting; its optimal range is best kept within the 200-yard mark for reliable ethical harvests.
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Basic Sights: The basic iron sights included are functional but might not be preferred by everyone. Many users opt for an upgrade to a scope for improved accuracy and precision at longer distances.
Conclusion: Is the Savage Axis XP 350 Legend Right for You?
The Savage Axis XP 350 Legend is an excellent choice for hunters seeking a reliable, accurate, and affordable rifle in a versatile caliber. Its manageable recoil, accuracy, and ease of use make it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters. If you're looking for a rifle for deer hunting within reasonable ranges and value a balance between performance and affordability, the Savage Axis XP 350 Legend warrants serious consideration. However, if long-range shooting is your priority, or if you need a rifle chambered in a more readily available cartridge, exploring other options might be advisable.
