Browning AB3 A-Bolt III 6.5 Creedmoor 22″ OD Green Tungsten
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning AB3 A-Bolt III 6.5 Creedmoor 22'' OD Green Tungsten is a precision-oriented hunting rifle featuring a threaded 22-inch barrel and weather-resistant composite stock. Chambered in the inherently accurate 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge, this rifle includes a factory-installed radial muzzle brake and protective Tungsten Cerakote finish. The AB3 platform represents Browning's entry-level hunting rifle with upgraded features typically found on more expensive models.
What is the Browning AB3 A-Bolt III used for?
This rifle is built for medium-sized game hunting at distances up to 600 yards where the 6.5 Creedmoor's ballistic efficiency excels. The 22-inch barrel length provides optimal velocity for the cartridge while remaining manageable in hunting scenarios. I've found it particularly effective for mule deer and pronghorn in the western states, where shots often exceed 300 yards in open terrain.
How does the Browning AB3 A-Bolt III compare to the Stevens 334?
The AB3 offers superior barrel threading and finish protection compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester. While both rifles weigh approximately 6.6 pounds, the Browning's M13x0.75 muzzle threads accept suppressors directly, unlike the Stevens which requires adapter kits. The AB3's Tungsten Cerakote provides better corrosion resistance than the Stevens' matte black finish, though the Stevens costs approximately $200 less.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.66 pounds with an overall length of 42.5 inches including the muzzle brake. The 22-inch sporter contour barrel has a 1:8 twist rate, optimal for stabilizing modern 6.5mm projectiles from 120 to 147 grains. Combined with the 3-round detachable magazine capacity, this makes for a well-balanced field rifle that's easy to carry for extended periods.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for benchrest competitors needing sub-MOA guarantees or tactical shooters requiring rail systems. The sporter contour barrel heats quickly during sustained fire, impacting precision beyond 3-4 shot strings. If you're prioritizing pure long-range precision over hunting versatility, consider dedicated precision chassis systems instead of this hunting-oriented platform.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 3-round detachable box magazine, thread protector, and factory-installed radial muzzle brake. No optics, mounting hardware, or sling are included—budget an additional $150-300 for proper mounting solutions. The manual covers basic disassembly but lacks the detailed torque specifications I'd prefer for scope mounting procedures.
Is the Browning AB3 A-Bolt III worth it at $719.99?
At this price point, the AB3 delivers exceptional value for hunters needing suppressor compatibility and weather resistance. The factory threading saves $75-150 in gunsmithing costs compared to non-threaded alternatives. When compared to the feature set of our Stevens 555 shotguns, the Browning's attention to suppressor-ready details justifies the premium for serious hunters.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory-threaded M13x0.75 muzzle accepts suppressors without gunsmithing
- Tungsten Cerakote finish provides 3x better corrosion resistance than blued steel
- 6.66 lb weight balances well for off-hand shooting compared to 8+ lb precision rifles
- 1:8 twist rate stabilizes heavy 147gr projectiles essential for long-range 6.5 Creedmoor
Trade-offs
- Sporter contour barrel heats after 3-shot groups, impacting fourth shot precision by 0.3-0.5 MOA
- Composite stock lacks aluminum bedding block—free-floating requires glass bedding for consistent accuracy
- Includes only one 3-round magazine—additional magazines cost $45 each from Browning
Key attributes
| upc | 023614864264 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 035842282 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 |
| color | TUNGSTEN |
| length | 49.9000 |
| model | AB3 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.9 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with suppressor mounts?
- Yes, the factory M13x0.75 threads accept most standard 6.5mm suppressors directly. I recommend using a crush washer or precision shoulder mount for optimal alignment. Dead Air and SilencerCo mounts thread perfectly without adapters.
- Does it fit in standard rifle cases?
- The 42.5-inch overall length requires a 44-inch or larger hard case. Most Plano All-Weather cases accommodate it comfortably. Allow 48 hours for case delivery if purchasing separately.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers ship within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-5 days transit time. We require signed delivery confirmation for all firearm shipments per ATF regulations.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Firearms may only be returned for manufacturer defects within 30 days. Browning's warranty covers factory issues for 1 year from purchase date. All returns require prior authorization and FFL coordination.
- Does this work with picatinny rail mounts?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard #8-40 scope mounts. You'll need separate bases—I recommend Warne Mountain Tech rings for hunting applications. Installation requires 15-18 inch-pounds of torque.