BROWNING X-BOLT 2 HUNTER 6.8 Western 24″
Pros & cons
What works
- Adjustable DLX trigger with a crisp 2.5- to 5-pound pull range
- Fully adjustable Vari-Tech stock for length of pull and comb height
- Free-floated 24-inch barrel with M13x0.75 threads for suppressor compatibility
- 1:7.5 twist rate stabilizes long, high-BC 6.8 Western bullets over 170 grains
Trade-offs
- 6.8 Western ammunition is less common and 20-30% more expensive than .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor
- 44-inch overall length is less maneuverable in thick brush than compact 20-inch models
- Synthetic stock, while adjustable, lacks the premium feel of a walnut or laminate stock at this price point
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter in 6.8 Western is a bolt-action hunting rifle engineered for precision and field adjustability.
It represents the second-generation evolution of Browning's core hunting platform, featuring a reconfigured receiver and a 24-inch threaded sporter-contour barrel with a 1:7.5 twist rate optimized for modern heavy-for-caliber 6.8 Western ammunition. This configuration delivers the high ballistic efficiency and retained kinetic energy at distance that this cartridge was designed for, making it a purpose-built tool for ethical medium-to-large game harvest.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter used for?
This rifle is a specialized hunting tool for western mountain and plains hunting where shots from 200 to 500 yards are common. It is purpose-built for hunters pursuing elk, mule deer, and similar-sized game who require a cartridge with superior long-range ballistics to a .270 Winchester. The 6.8 Western cartridge, when paired with this rifle's 24-inch barrel and 1:7.5 twist, stabilizes long, high-BC bullets over 170 grains to maintain terminal velocity past 300 yards, a distinct advantage in open country.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Browning X-Bolt 2 is a more refined and adjustable system than the Stevens 334 Rifle, justifying its higher price point. Where the Stevens 334 offers basic reliability in common calibers like .308 Win, the X-Bolt 2 provides a superior adjustable DLX trigger with a crisp 2.5- to 5-pound pull range, a fully adjustable synthetic stock for length of pull and comb height, and smoother action cycling from its redesigned bolt. For a hunter focused solely on sub-300-yard whitetail in thick cover, the Stevens is sufficient; for a hunter needing a precision, dialable system for variable terrain and longer shots, the Browning's features directly impact shot consistency and success.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unscoped, the rifle weighs 6.95 pounds (3.15 kg) and measures 44 inches (111.8 cm) in overall length. Its 24-inch (61 cm) sporter-contour barrel is free-floated, and the M13x0.75 muzzle threads accept standard suppressors or brakes. The adjustable Vari-Tech stock allows the length of pull to be modified by approximately 0.75 inches via spacers, and the comb height can be raised up to 0.5 inches, critical for achieving a consistent cheek weld with larger objective scopes.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for budget-conscious hunters or those who primarily hunt in dense, close-quarters timber. The 6.8 Western ammunition is more expensive and less ubiquitous than .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor, adding to the cost of practice and hunting. Furthermore, the rifle's 44-inch overall length makes it less maneuverable in tight blinds or thick brush compared to a compact 20-inch model like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win. If your typical shot is under 150 yards and you prioritize light weight and fast handling over ballistic optimization, a shorter-barreled rifle in a more common caliber is a more practical choice.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, one detachable 3-round steel magazine, a factory-installed radial-port muzzle brake, a steel thread protector, and the necessary Allen wrenches for stock adjustment and optic mounting. The action is pre-drilled and tapped with an integrated X-Lock scope mounting system, requiring no separate base purchase for many popular scope ring sets. The manual includes detailed instructions for adjusting the trigger pull weight, which I recommend performing before your first range session.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter worth it at $1049.99?
At just over a thousand dollars, it is worth the investment for a hunter who will utilize its precision-oriented features. You are paying for the refined action mechanics, the outstanding adjustability of the stock and trigger, and a cartridge/barrel combination specifically engineered for modern long-range hunting. If your needs are met by a simpler, fixed-stock rifle, you can save $300-$400. But for the shooter who values a rifle that can be tailored precisely to their body and shooting style for that one critical shot, the X-Bolt 2's feature set delivers tangible performance where it counts.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614854142 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036003299 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" Sporter Barrel |
| caliber/gauge | 6.8 Western |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 53.8000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 9.8 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.55 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- What optics mounting system does it use?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped with Browning's proprietary X-Lock system. This integrates recoil lugs into the receiver, allowing direct mounting of scope rings that are compatible with X-Lock (like Browning's own or many from Warne) without a separate Picatinny or Weaver base. Standard 8-40 scope base screws are used for traditional mounting.
- Is the muzzle thread compatible with a suppressor?
- Yes, the M13x0.75 muzzle thread is a standard pitch for many centerfire rifle cans. You will need a muzzle device or direct-thread adapter from your suppressor manufacturer (like Dead Air, SilencerCo, or Rugged) in that thread pitch. The thread protector can be removed in seconds with a 3/4-inch wrench.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days from order confirmation. Delivery time then depends on your selected carrier and location, usually adding 2-7 additional business days. The rifle must ship to a licensed FFL holder for the required 4473 background check transfer.
- Can I use 270 Winchester ammunition in this rifle?
- Absolutely not. The 6.8 Western is a distinct, proprietary cartridge from Winchester and Browning. It is not dimensionally compatible with .270 Winchester, .270 WSM, or any other cartridge. Using incorrect ammunition is extremely dangerous and will cause catastrophic firearm failure.