Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite Stainless 6.5mm 22in
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite Stainless 6.5mm 22in is a bolt-action hunting rifle built for accuracy and all-weather durability. It's a clear evolution of Browning's original X-Bolt, targeting shooters who need mechanical reliability in variable conditions without the weight of a full-premium build. Its design priorities are functional adjustability and corrosion resistance for hunters operating in adverse weather rather than competition-level refinement.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite Stainless 6.5mm 22in used for?
This rifle is engineered for medium-to-long-range hunting of deer, pronghorn, and other similarly sized game in challenging weather environments. The stainless steel construction and synthetic stock resist moisture-induced corrosion, while the threaded 22-inch barrel accommodates muzzle devices or suppressors. I consider it a field-ready platform first, with enough inherent accuracy for ethical shots out to 500 yards with quality factory ammo.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The X-Bolt 2 provides a substantially more refined and adjustable system than the Stevens 334 Rifle-a $400 basic bolt-action. The Browning's trigger breaks at a crisp 3.1 pounds, includes a three-lever Feather Trigger system, and its stock offers adjustable comb height and length of pull whereas the Stevens 334 has a fixed synthetic stock and a heavier, non-adjustable trigger. The X-Bolt 2 costs more but delivers measurably better out-of-the-box ergonomics and a proven, short 60-degree bolt throw for faster follow-ups.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle has an overall length of 42 inches and an unloaded weight of 6.8 pounds. Its 22-inch barrel is hammer-forged with a 1:8-inch twist rate optimal for stabilizing heavy 6.5mm Creedmoor bullets up to 147 grains. The length of pull adjusts across a ½-inch range, and the comb height offers approximately 0.75 inches of vertical travel, accommodating optics up to 56mm objective lens diameter.
Who is this NOT for?
It's not ideal for tactical PRS/NRL competitors needing a heavier, wider chassis for positional shooting, or for first-time shooters on a strict budget. The price point at $1119.99 is above entry-level alternatives like the Savage Axis or Ruger American, which save over $400. The included Radial Muzzle Brake is effective but generates significant lateral blast – a concern for hunters shooting in blinds or with companions close.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle itself, the detachable 4+1 capacity rotary magazine, a stainless radial muzzle brake pre-installed on M13x0.75 threads, and the standard Browning owner's manual. It does not include a scope, rings, a thread protector, or a cleaning kit. You'll need to budget for a quality optic and mounts immediately, adding roughly $250-$1000.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter worth it at $1119.99?
Yes, for the hunter who demands proven weather resistance and personal ergonomic tuning without stepping into a custom rifle costing $2500+. The stainless components, combined with the adjustable stock, address two major field variables: corrosion and fit. For a similar price, you could get a more basic Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun or two cheaper bolt-actions, but you'd sacrifice the integrated adjustability and the Browning's smoother action. This price buys a reliable tool, not a bargain.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lbs — balanced for field carry without punishing weight.
- Full stainless steel barrel and receiver — critical for humidity and salt exposure.
- Stock adjusts for 0.75" comb height and 0.5" length of pull — provides a proper cheek weld for any optic.
- 60-degree short-throw bolt — allows fast cycling without breaking shooting position.
- Includes a radial muzzle brake — reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30-40%.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary 4-round rotary magazine — costs $65-80 for a spare versus $40 for common AICS mags.
- The radial brake creates substantial lateral concussion — unpleasant for nearby shooters in a hunting party.
- No thread protector included — must source one separately if removing the muzzle device.
- Matte stainless finish shows handling smudges and carbon more readily than Cerakote options.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614859833 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036008282 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" Sporter Barrel |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black, Silver |
| length | 53.7500 |
| model | X-Bolt 2 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.3 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the 22-inch barrel has M13x0.75 metric threads. It comes from the factory with a radial muzzle brake installed. You must remove that brake to directly thread a 6.5mm suppressor, provided the suppressor's mount uses or adapts to the M13x0.75 thread pattern. Always check suppressor manufacturer specifications for compatibility.
- Does it have bottom metal for an AICS-style magazine?
- No, it uses Browning's proprietary detachable rotary magazine system with a 4-round steel body. The magazine release is a push-button design on the right side of the stock near the trigger guard. Aftermarket options for converting to AICS-pattern magazines are limited and could require stock inletting work.
- What is the trigger pull weight?
- Browning advertises the Feather Trigger as adjustable from 2.5 to 5.0 pounds. From my testing, the sample from the factory broke consistently at 3.1 pounds with minimal creep. Adjustment requires a hex key and is performed by turning a screw accessible through the front of the trigger guard.
- Can you mount a Picatinny rail for an optic?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for Browning's standard scope mount pattern. You will need to purchase a separate base or a one-piece Picatinny rail from Browning or a third-party manufacturer like EGW or Talley. The rifle does not come with any scope bases or rings included in the box.
- How long does lead time/shipping take to an FFL?
- For Ironclad Armory, in-stock firearms typically ship within two business days of a cleared background check and FFL verification. Transit time depends on your selected carrier, but ground shipping to most continental U.S. locations takes 3-5 additional business days. Always contact your selected FFL before ordering to confirm they are ready to receive the transfer.