Stevens 200 or Axis?

[Uncle Alvah]

Theres a few new "budget" rifles coming onto the market that have caught my eye.
In particular, the Stevens 200 and the Savage Axis.
I'm leaning toward the 200 in .243, but I hear good things about the Axis as well, and prices are comparable.

Any advice or opinions on choosing between these two rifles appreciated!

 

[kludge]

In the interest of full disclosure, I'm a Savage nut.

I think the Marlin XL7/XS7 is a better rifle.

 

[GJgo]

From what I understand, the Stevens has lots of potential for modification while the Axis does not.

 

[jmr40]

The Stevens 200 between the 2. That's a no brainer, but I'm with kludge, the Marlin is better than either for about the same money.

 

[Uncle Alvah]

I'm with kludge, the Marlin is better

What makes it better?