Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter 6.5 PRC 24in Gray Laminate
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter 6.5 PRC 24in Gray Laminate is a bolt-action sporting rifle designed for precision hunting at extended ranges. It features a stainless steel receiver, a 24-inch threaded barrel with radial muzzle brake, and an adjustable DLX trigger in a gray laminate stock. This configuration balances weight, recoil management, and accuracy potential for demanding field use.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter used for?
This rifle is designed for precision hunting of medium to large game, like elk and mule deer, at distances beyond 400 yards. The 6.5 PRC cartridge's high ballistic coefficient and the rifle's 24-inch barrel optimize muzzle velocity for long-range terminal performance. The laminate stock and factory-installed radial brake make it suitable for hunters who hike rugged terrain but still require a stable firing platform for ethical shots.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Browning is a more refined and specialized long-range hunting platform than the more basic Stevens 334 in .308 Win. The Browning's adjustable DLX trigger is superior for precision work, offering a cleaner break compared to the Stevens' standard trigger. However, the Stevens 334 is 1.3 pounds lighter and chambered in the more common .308 Win, making it a better, more affordable choice for general-purpose hunting under 300 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.8 pounds (3.09 kg) and measures 44.5 inches in overall length. The 24-inch barrel contributes significantly to this length, which aids ballistics but affects maneuverability in dense brush. The magazine well adds 1.75 inches to the height when using the flush-fit 3-round magazine.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for shooters operating on a tight budget or those new to long-range ballistics. The 6.5 PRC ammunition costs upwards of $2.50 per round, making practice expensive. The rifle's 44.5-inch length also makes it cumbersome for tight blinds or thick timber, unlike the more compact Stevens 334 with a 20-inch barrel.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 3-round detachable steel magazine, a standard set of Weaver-style scope base screws, and the factory-installed radial muzzle brake. Browning does not include thread protectors for the M13x0.75 muzzle threads, so you must purchase one separately if you plan to shoot without the brake or attach a suppressor.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter worth it at $1229.99?
At $1229.99, it is a justified investment for the hunter dedicated to mastering long-range shots on big game. You are paying for the premium adjustable trigger, the recoil-reducing radial brake, and the stability of the laminated stock—features absent from entry-level rifles. For the shooter who will utilize its specialized 500-yard+ capabilities, the cost per ethical harvest makes sense; for casual hunting, a less expensive platform is more practical.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Radial muzzle brake reduces perceived recoil by approximately 40% over an unbraked .308 Win of similar weight.
- Adjustable DLX trigger breaks cleanly at 3.1 pounds out of the box with zero creep.
- 24-inch barrel provides full powder burn for the 6.5 PRC, yielding velocities around 2950 fps with 143-grain ELD-X factory loads.
- Laminated stock is 37% more resistant to warping from moisture than standard walnut.
Trade-offs
- M13x0.75 muzzle thread is less common than 5/8-24 in the US, requiring an adapter for many popular suppressors (adds ~$80 and length).
- Magazine capacity is limited to 3 rounds; aftermarket high-capacity options are scarce for the 6.5 PRC X-Bolt 2.
- The 44.5-inch overall length makes it unwieldy for vehicle or treestand use compared to a 20-inch barreled rifle.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614866367 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036092294 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" Sporter Barrel |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5 PRC |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 49.8500 |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the barrel is threaded M13x0.75, which is a common metric thread pitch for many European and some American-made muzzle devices and suppressors. You will need to ensure your suppressor's mount or direct-thread adapter matches this specific thread pattern. The threading extends approximately 0.875 inches past the muzzle crown.
- Does the magazine fit other X-Bolt models?
- This specific 3-round steel magazine is designed for the X-Bolt 2 action and 6.5 PRC cartridge. It is not compatible with the original X-Bolt 1 actions or other calibers like .308 Winchester due to different feed lip geometry and cartridge dimensions. Replacement magazines are available directly from Browning or through authorized parts distributors.
- Is the receiver drilled and tapped for a scope mount?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard 6-48 thread pattern for scope bases. The spacing follows the common Weaver/Picatinny footprint, allowing you to install most commercial two-piece or one-piece bases from manufacturers like Warne, Leupold, or Talley. No special tools are required beyond a set of hex keys and a torque driver set to 18-20 in-lbs.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard shipping to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3-5 business days after your order and FFL information are verified. You must coordinate directly with your receiving FFL dealer to provide their license copy and arrange for the firearm transfer, which involves the mandatory NICS background check. Processing time before shipment is usually 1-2 business days.