Marlin xl7 is about the same money, Ruger American a tad more. If I remember right, the Ruger has an adjustable trigger (like the Savage Accutrigger). I looked at them all pretty close last summer and bought . . . a Savage Model 11, much nicer gun for about $150 more (also liked the Weatherby Vanguard 2 for about the same money as the 11). I'd shop around and take a serious look at the Ruger if that's what the budget says. And of the 2 specified, I'd go with the Axis.