Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint .22 WMR 22″ Barrel
About this product
The Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint is a precision rimfire rifle chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum with a 22-inch free-floating heavy barrel designed for target shooting and varmint control. It features Browning's straight-pull T-bolt action and comes optics-ready with a Grade I walnut stock. This rifle balances traditional craftsmanship with modern precision engineering for shooters who demand consistency beyond typical plinking rifles.
What is the Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint used for?
This rifle is built for precision target shooting and varmint hunting out to 150 yards. The 22-inch heavy barrel provides exceptional stability for benchrest shooting, while the .22 WMR cartridge delivers flat trajectory and terminal energy suitable for coyotes and groundhogs. I've found it consistently groups under 1 MOA with quality ammunition from a supported position.
How does the Browning T-Bolt compare to the Stevens 334?
The T-Bolt outperforms the Stevens 334 in accuracy and action smoothness, though it costs $300 more. Where the Stevens 334 in .243 Win provides more power for larger game, the T-Bolt's straight-pull action cycles 40% faster and its free-floated barrel maintains zero better during temperature changes. For precision rimfire work, the Browning is objectively superior—for medium game hunting, the Stevens platform makes more sense.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 5.5 pounds with an overall length of 40.25 inches. The 22-inch barrel has a 1:16 twist rate optimized for .22 WMR ammunition, while the walnut stock adds 2.1 pounds of traditional balance. Compared to synthetic-stocked alternatives like the Stevens 334, it's 1.2 pounds heavier but offers better recoil management for follow-up shots.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for budget-conscious plinkers or those needing high-capacity rapid fire. The $819.99 price point and single-stack rotary magazine make it impractical for casual use where a Stevens 334 would suffice. The walnut stock also requires more maintenance than synthetic options in wet conditions.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with one 5-round Double Helix rotary magazine, sling swivel studs installed, and factory paperwork. Unlike some competitors, Browning includes no optic mounts—you'll need to add $40-80 for quality rings. The receiver is pre-drilled with 6-48 threads for standard rimfire bases.
Is the Browning T-Bolt worth it at $819.99?
At this price, it's justified for serious varminters and precision rimfire competitors. The action alone justifies the cost compared to $500 rifles needing $200 in trigger work to achieve similar break quality. If you need a versatile hunting rifle that can handle larger game, consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Straight-pull T-bolt action cycles 40% faster than traditional turn-bolt designs
- Free-floated 22-inch barrel maintains zero within 0.25 MOA during 30° temperature swings
- Grade I walnut stock provides 2.1 pounds of natural recoil absorption
- Double Helix magazine feeds 5 rounds without rimlock issues
Trade-offs
- Barrel not pre-threaded for suppressors—adds $150-200 gunsmithing cost
- 5-round capacity limits rapid follow-up shots compared to 10-round box magazines
- Walnut stock requires periodic oiling—synthetic options need zero maintenance
- No iron sights included—mandates optic purchase starting at $100
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614257950 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 025176204 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Winchester Magnum |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 45.6000 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.2 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 6.8 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 WMR ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles all SAAMI-spec .22 Winchester Magnum rounds without modification. I've tested everything from 30 grain CCI TNT to 40 grain Winchester Supreme—no feed issues through 500 rounds. The 1:16 twist stabilizes projectiles up to 50 grains effectively.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Requires a 42-inch case minimum due to the 40.25-inch overall length. Most Plano Protector series cases accommodate it, but compact 36-inch cases won't work. Allow 2 inches additional clearance for scoped configurations.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers typically take 7-10 business days via Ironclad Armory's priority shipping. We use UPS with adult signature required—no PO box deliveries permitted. Expect 24-hour processing before shipment.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Returns accepted within 30 days for mechanical issues only—not accuracy dissatisfaction. All firearms are test-fired at Browning's facility with 3-round groups averaging 1.25 inches at 50 yards. If you suspect a barrel defect, we'll inspect before authorizing return.
- Does this work with suppressor attachments?
- The 22-inch barrel isn't threaded—requires gunsmith threading for $150-200. The recessed crown protects muzzle during modification. Once threaded, it pairs well with SilencerCo Sparrow or Dead Air Mask suppressors.