Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple .300 Win Mag 26″ Barrel
Pros & cons
What works
- 26-inch free-floated barrel delivers 2,950 fps muzzle velocity with 180gr ammunition
- AA maple stock provides 40% better vibration damping than standard walnut
- Inflex recoil pad reduces felt recoil by approximately 25% compared to hard rubber pads
- Detachable rotary magazine feeds reliably in all shooting positions
Trade-offs
- 7 pound 3 ounce weight increases fatigue during extended mountain hunts
- 46-inch overall length problematic for tight brush and tree stand use
- No included scope bases add $45-60 to initial setup cost
- .300 Win Mag ammunition costs $2.50-4.00 per round for quality hunting loads
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple .300 Win Mag 26″ Barrel is a precision bolt-action hunting rifle designed for serious long-range shooters who need consistent performance at extended distances. Chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum with a 26-inch free-floated barrel, this rifle combines traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering for reliable field performance. Built for hunters who regularly shoot beyond 300 yards, it bridges the gap between factory sporter rifles and custom-built precision platforms.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple used for?
This rifle is engineered specifically for large game hunting at distances where standard cartridges lose effectiveness. It excels for elk, moose, and bear hunting where shot placements beyond 300 yards are common. The .300 Win Mag cartridge delivers over 3,000 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, providing reliable penetration on heavy-bodied animals. Hunters who need to make ethical shots at 400+ yards will appreciate the combination of barrel length and cartridge performance.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The X-Bolt 2 outperforms the Stevens 334 significantly in long-range energy retention and terminal ballistics. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win drops below 1,500 foot-pounds of energy at 400 yards, the .300 Win Mag maintains over 2,100 foot-pounds at the same distance. However, the Stevens 334 costs nearly $700 less and handles recoil better for newer shooters. I'd recommend the Stevens 334 for shots under 250 yards and the X-Bolt 2 for hunters regularly engaging beyond 300 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7 pounds 3 ounces unloaded and measures 46 inches in overall length with its 26-inch barrel. The sporter contour barrel has a diameter of 0.650 inches at the muzzle, balancing weight distribution for carry comfort. The AA maple stock adds approximately 2 pounds 8 ounces to the total weight while providing superior vibration damping compared to synthetic alternatives.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for new shooters or those sensitive to heavy recoil. The .300 Win Mag generates over 30 foot-pounds of free recoil energy, which requires proper shooting technique and physical conditioning. Hunters who primarily shoot from tree stands or tight brush will find the 46-inch overall length cumbersome. If your typical shots are inside 200 yards, consider the more manageable Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable rotary magazine and mounting hardware for optics installation. Browning includes detailed instructions for torque specifications (35 inch-pounds for scope base screws) and proper bedding procedures. Unlike some competitors, there's no factory test target or additional accessories - this is a working tool, not a presentation package.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Maple worth it at $1,165.99?
At this price point, the X-Bolt 2 delivers exceptional value for hunters needing consistent long-range performance without custom gunsmithing costs. The free-floated barrel and proper bedding eliminate most accuracy issues found in factory rifles costing $800-900. For hunters investing in quality optics and ammunition, this platform provides the mechanical foundation for sub-MOA performance that cheaper rifles can't guarantee.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614863014 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036044229 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Matte Blued |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | .300 Winchester Magnum |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.2 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| model | X-Bolt |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this rifle come with scope bases installed?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws but requires separate purchase of scope bases. I recommend Talley Precision Manufacturing bases, which typically cost $45-60 and install in under 15 minutes with proper torque wrench.
- What is the magazine capacity?
- The detachable rotary magazine holds 4 rounds of .300 Win Mag ammunition. Browning uses a rotary design that feeds more reliably than stack magazines under field conditions, with positive cartridge control during cycling.
- Can I use a suppressor with this rifle?
- Yes, the 26-inch barrel provides sufficient length for most .30 caliber suppressors without making the overall package unwieldy. You'll need to verify thread pattern (typically 5/8x24) and submit ATF Form 4 for suppressor ownership, which currently takes 8-10 months for approval.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes shipments within 2 business days, with ground transit typically taking 5-7 days to reach most continental US FFL holders. We coordinate directly with your chosen dealer to ensure smooth transfer compliance.