Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR 6.5mm Creedmoor 24″
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR 6.5mm Creedmoor 24″? It is a precision bolt-action rifle built for intermediate-range shooting, pairing a controlled-feed short action with a composite stock and threaded heavy barrel. This specific configuration weighs 7.14 pounds empty, measures 44 inches overall, and ships with a 5-round total magazine capacity. At a street price just under $2,400, it resides in the premium production rifle category, competing directly with offerings like the Bergara B-14 HMR.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR used for?
The Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR is used for precision target shooting and long-range hunting of medium game like deer and pronghorn. Its 1:7 twist 24-inch barrel stabilizes heavier, high-BC 6.5mm Creedmoor bullets (140-147 grains) effectively for consistent accuracy beyond 600 yards. The Recoil Hawg muzzle brake and 7.14-pound weight make it manageable for extended range sessions or for hunters covering rough terrain who need a first-round hit.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR compare to the Stevens 334?
The Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR is a more specialized and mechanically refined instrument than the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. Where the Stevens 334 offers reliable, budget-friendly utility, the Browning provides superior out-of-the-box precision, a premium adjustable DLX trigger, and a stiffer McMillan composite stock that better supports the heavy, fluted barrel. The Browning is objectively better for shooters demanding sub-MOA groups, but costs approximately $1,500 more.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7 pounds, 2.2 ounces (7.14 lbs) with an empty magazine, and its overall length is 44 inches. The 24-inch barrel contributes significantly to this length, adding roughly 4 inches of sight radius and velocity over a common 20-inch hunting barrel. The McMillan Game Scout stock has a length of pull of approximately 13.75 inches, a drop at comb of about 1.5 inches, and a drop at heel of around 2.5 inches, fitting most average-sized adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for budget-conscious shooters, those seeking a lightweight mountain rifle, or anyone uncomfortable with a 44-inch overall length. At nearly $2,400 before optics and mounts, it demands a significant investment. Its weight and length make it less ideal for tight-quarter stalking or packing deep into backcountry where every ounce and inch counts. For those prioritizing pure light weight, a Stevens 334 in .243 Win at under 7 pounds and 40.5 inches long is a more practical choice.
What's in the box?
In the box, you receive the barreled action seated in the McMillan Game Scout stock, one steel detachable box magazine with a 4+1 capacity, the installed Recoil Hawg muzzle brake, and the factory owner's manual with warranty card. The rifle does not include scope bases, rings, a bipod, or a hard case. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for #8-40 scope base screws, requiring the purchaser to source their own mounting system, which typically adds $80-$200 and 15-30 minutes of installation time.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR worth it at $2369.99?
At $2369.99, the Browning X-Bolt 2 McMillan LR is worth it for shooters who value a turn-key precision rifle with a proven aftermarket stock and who will leverage its accuracy potential. You are paying a premium for the McMillan name, the Browning action's smoothness, and the factory-tuned DLX trigger. If your goal is simply to hit an 8-inch plate at 300 yards, a $700 rifle will suffice. If your goal is consistent 0.75 MOA five-shot groups with handloads, this rifle provides a foundation that saves money on later stock upgrades.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- McMillan Game Scout stock provides superior bedding stiffness over standard injection-molded stocks, reducing point-of-impact shift.
- Adjustable DLX trigger breaks cleanly at a factory-set ~3.5 pounds, user-adjustable down to approximately 2.5 pounds.
- 24-inch fluted barrel with 1:7 twist rate optimizes velocity and stabilization for long, heavy 6.5mm projectiles (140gr+).
- Recoil Hawg muzzle brake reduces perceived recoil by an estimated 40-50% compared to an unbraked barrel, speeding up follow-up shots.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazine system locks you into Browning or niche aftermarket options, unlike the nearly universal AICS pattern used by competitors like the Bergara B-14.
- At 7.14 lbs unscoped, the rifle becomes a 9.5+ lb system once a scope, mount, and bipod are added—heavy for extended offhand shooting or mountain hunting.
- Wood Hydrographic Decoration (WHD) on the stock is a vinyl wrap, not real laminate or wood; it can chip or peel at sharp edges with hard use.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614866039 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036077282 |
| action | Bolt Short Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the 24-inch stainless steel barrel features 5/8x24 threads, which is the standard pitch for .30 caliber and 6.5mm muzzle devices and suppressors. The included Recoil Hawg muzzle brake is installed onto these threads. To mount a suppressor like a SilencerCo Omega 300, you must first remove the muzzle brake, then thread the suppressor's direct-thread mount or muzzle brake adapter onto the barrel. Always use a vise and proper reaction rod for removal to avoid damaging the barrel crown.
- Does it come with a scope base installed?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases but does not include them. You will need to purchase separate bases. The Browning X-Bolt pattern uses a two-piece base system; popular options are the Talley Lightweight rings (which integrate base and ring) or separate bases from companies like EGW or Warne. The front receiver ring is spaced for a standard #6 (1-inch) or #8 (30mm) base, and installation typically requires a set of hex keys and 15 in-lbs of torque on each screw.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within 2 business days. Transit time depends on the selected carrier and destination, typically averaging 3-5 business days for continental US delivery. The firearm must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) of your choice. You are responsible for contacting your FFL, providing them with our shipping details, and completing the mandatory NICS background check and Form 4473 upon pickup. We email tracking information once the shipment is scanned by the carrier.
- Can I return it if I don't like how it shoots?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms or ammunition due to federal regulations, except in cases of verified manufacturer defect. All sales are final once the firearm is transferred to your FFL. We strongly recommend researching the rifle's characteristics, handling one at a local dealer if possible, and understanding that accuracy is dependent on ammunition, shooter, and optics. If a legitimate defect is found, you must initiate a warranty claim directly with Browning, which has a standard 1-year warranty on materials and workmanship.
- Does this work with AICS pattern magazines?
- No, the Browning X-Bolt 2 uses a proprietary detachable box magazine system, not the ubiquitous AICS pattern. The included steel magazine has a 4-round internal capacity plus one additional round that can be loaded directly into the chamber for a 4+1 total. While not AICS-compatible, aftermarket options are available from companies like Mountain Tactical that offer extended capacity (up to 10 rounds) but still utilize the X-Bolt's unique magazine catch geometry. Plan on spending $80-$120 for an aftermarket extended magazine.