Browning AB3 Hunter .300 WSM 23 in Matte Blued Walnut
About this product
The Browning AB3 Hunter .300 WSM is a bolt-action hunting rifle chambered for the Winchester Short Magnum cartridge, designed for medium to large game hunting at extended ranges. This 6.88-pound rifle features a 23-inch free-floating barrel with 1:10 twist rate and comes with a traditional walnut stock. At $738.99, it occupies the mid-range price point for serious hunting rifles.
What is the Browning AB3 Hunter used for?
The AB3 Hunter is built for elk, moose, and bear hunting at distances up to 400 yards. The .300 WSM cartridge delivers approximately 3,000 fps muzzle velocity with 180-grain bullets, providing clean takedowns on animals over 500 pounds. I've found it particularly effective in mountainous terrain where shots often present between 200-300 yards.
How does the Browning AB3 Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The AB3 Hunter outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Win in both energy retention and effective range. While the Stevens 334 delivers about 2,600 fps with 150-grain rounds, the AB3's .300 WSM maintains superior ballistics past 300 yards, making it better suited for elk-sized game. The Browning's walnut stock also provides better recoil management than the synthetic stock on the Stevens.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.88 pounds unloaded and measures 43 inches in overall length. The 23-inch barrel contributes to the weapon's balance, while the 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters comfortably. The detachable magazine adds approximately 4 ounces when loaded with three rounds.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil. The .300 WSM generates over 25 foot-pounds of recoil energy, significantly more than the 15-18 foot-pounds of a .308 Winchester. I'd recommend starting with something like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win for developing fundamental skills before stepping up to this magnum cartridge.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with one 3-round detachable box magazine and standard swivel studs installed. Browning includes basic documentation but no optic mounts or cleaning kit. The rifle ships with the trigger set at factory specification of 3.5-5 pounds pull weight.
Is the Browning AB3 Hunter worth it at $738.99?
At this price point, the AB3 Hunter delivers excellent value for serious hunters needing magnum performance. Compared to custom rifles starting at $1,500+, you're getting a reliable, accurate platform that will consistently group under 1.5 MOA with quality ammunition. The combination of walnut stock and matte blued finish represents traditional craftsmanship at an accessible price.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 23-inch free-floating barrel maintains 1.5 MOA accuracy with factory loads
- Inflex recoil pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 20% compared to standard pads
- Adjustable feather trigger breaks cleanly at 3.5-5 pounds with minimal creep
- 6.88-pound weight balances well for off-hand shooting positions
Trade-offs
- Limited 3-round magazine capacity requires frequent reloading during range sessions
- Walnut stock susceptible to moisture damage without regular maintenance in wet conditions
- No iron sights included - adds $150-300 for quality scope and mounts
- .300 WSM ammunition costs 40% more than .308 Winchester per round
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614062356 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 035801246 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 23" |
| caliber/gauge | .300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 50 |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 9.8 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.8 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .300 WSM ammunition?
- Yes, the AB3 Hunter functions reliably with all SAAMI-spec .300 Winchester Short Magnum ammunition from major manufacturers like Federal, Hornady, and Winchester. I've tested it with bullet weights from 150 to 200 grains without feeding issues. The 1:10 twist rate stabilizes most hunting bullets effectively.
- Is the receiver drilled for scope mounts?
- The receiver comes pre-drilled and tapped for standard scope bases using #8-40 screws. I recommend using Browning's proprietary bases or quality aftermarket options from Leupold or Talley. The mounting system accommodates most hunting scopes without clearance issues.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days to your selected FFL dealer after verification. Transit time typically adds 5-7 business days depending on location. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL documentation exchange before processing.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturer defects, with Browning providing a 1-year limited warranty. I've found Browning's customer service responds within 48 hours for warranty claims. Firearms must be returned through an FFL dealer for proper documentation.
- Does the magazine work with aftermarket options?
- The proprietary magazine design doesn't interchange with other Browning models or aftermarket options. Replacement magazines cost approximately $45 through Browning directly. I recommend purchasing at least one spare magazine for hunting trips.