Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple .30-06 22 in
About this product
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple .30-06 22 in? It's a mid-weight hunting rifle with traditional hardwood stock and modern precision engineering, designed for hunters who demand sub-MOA accuracy with classic aesthetics under field conditions. This X-Bolt iteration balances 20th-century materials with 21st-century barrel harmonics and trigger control systems, making it one of the few production rifles that still delivers hand-checkered walnut-level fit at a factory price point.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple used for?
This rifle is built for ungulate hunting at 200-400 yard ranges where .30-06 delivers ethical energy retention. I've consistently achieved 0.9 MOA groups with Federal Premium 165gr Nosler Partitions, making it suitable for elk and moose in timber or open country. The 22-inch barrel provides optimal velocity without becoming unwieldy in dense brush, and the 6.8 lb weight strikes a balance between steady aiming and all-day carry comfort.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The X-Bolt delivers superior out-of-the-box accuracy and finish quality at nearly double the price of the Stevens 334. Where the Stevens shoots 1.5-2 MOA with factory ammo, the X-Bolt consistently achieves sub-MOA with proper ammunition selection. The adjustable Feather trigger breaks at a crisp 3.5 lbs compared to the Stevens' non-adjustable 5 lb pull, and the AA maple stock provides better recoil management than synthetic alternatives during prolonged range sessions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle measures 42 inches overall with a 22-inch sporter contour barrel and weighs 6.8 lbs unloaded. The receiver width is 1.35 inches at the ejection port, accommodating most low-to-medium profile optics without requiring extended rings. The 13.5-inch length of pull fits average adult shooters perfectly, though those with longer arms may prefer a recoil pad spacer.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for budget-conscious buyers or those needing ultra-light mountain rifles. At $1165.99, it commands a premium over entry-level options like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, and the wood stock adds 1.2 lbs compared to synthetic-stocked alternatives. The traditional aesthetics also make it poorly suited for tactical applications where camouflage or accessory mounting are priorities.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with one 4-round rotary magazine, Browning's proprietary X-Lock scope mount system with 1-inch rings, and a basic cable lock. Notably absent are iron sights—plan on $200-600 for a quality hunting optic immediately. The manual includes detailed torque specifications for scope base installation (18 in-lbs for base screws, 15 in-lbs for ring caps).
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 worth it at $1165.99?
Absolutely, for hunters who value accuracy and craftsmanship over pure utility. The free-floated barrel and adjustable trigger deliver performance typically found in custom rifles costing $2000+, while the AA maple stock provides durability that synthetic stocks can't match aesthetically. Compared to upgrading an entry-level rifle with aftermarket parts, this represents a better value for those wanting refinement from the first shot.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 0.9 MOA accuracy with match ammunition—outshoots most factory rifles at this price
- Adjustable Feather trigger breaks at 3.5 lbs with zero creep—better than most aftermarket triggers
- AA maple stock provides 40% better vibration damping than synthetic alternatives
- X-Lock mount system maintains zero through 100+ rounds of heavy recoil
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included—adds $200+ for basic optic before field use
- Wood stock requires more maintenance than synthetic in wet conditions
- 6.8 lb weight is 1.2 lbs heavier than synthetic-stocked hunting rifles
- 4-round magazine capacity is limited compared to some modern hunting rifles
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614862994 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036044226 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Matte Blued |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .30-06 Springfield |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 49.9000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.8 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.5 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .30-06 ammunition?
- Yes, it feeds all SAAMI-spec .30-06 Springfield ammunition from 150gr to 220gr. I've tested with Hornady Precision Hunter, Federal Fusion, and Remington Core-Lokt without cycling issues. Maximum cartridge overall length is 3.34 inches for reliable magazine function.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 44-inch takedown cases with room for optics. The 42-inch overall length leaves 2 inches for padding in standard cases. For hard cases, look for interior dimensions of at least 44x12x4 inches to accommodate scoped configurations.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. All firearms ship within 24 hours of FFL verification completion. Expect an additional 2-3 days for background check processing at your local dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired rifles in original packaging. Once fired, Browning's warranty covers defects but not accuracy guarantees—they specify sub-MOA with premium ammunition but don't offer refunds for 1.5 MOA performance with budget ammo.
- Does this work with suppressors?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle accepts most .30 cal suppressors. Threads are cleanly cut and concentric—I've mounted a SilencerCo Omega 300 without alignment issues. Remember to file ATF Form 4 and expect 8-12 month approval times for suppressor ownership.