Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro 6.5 Creedmoor 20in Matte Blued 4rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro 6.5 Creedmoor 20in Matte Blued 4rd is a purpose-built compact bolt-action rifle designed for smaller-framed shooters and tight-quarter applications where every inch matters. Engineered with a 20-inch sporter-contour barrel and Browning's Vari-Tech synthetic stock, this rifle delivers precision shooting capabilities without the bulk of full-sized platforms. The X-Bolt 2 Micro combines adjustable ergonomics with 6.5 Creedmoor's ballistic efficiency, making it ideal for hunters and shooters who demand both portability and terminal performance.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro used for?
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro is engineered for hunters and shooters operating in confined spaces or requiring a compact platform—think alpine elk hunts, dense brush, or vehicle-based operations where a shorter overall length improves maneuverability. Its 20-inch barrel balances velocity retention with handling, while the adjustable Vari-Tech stock accommodates shooters from 5'2" to 6'1" with precise comb height and length-of-pull tweaks. The threaded muzzle (5/8-24) accepts suppressors or brakes, though you'll need to file a Form 4 for NFA compliance if suppressing.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro outperforms the Stevens 334 Rifle in trigger quality, ergonomic adjustability, and suppressor readiness, but costs $300 more. Browning's adjustable DLX trigger breaks crisply at 3.5 pounds versus the Stevens' non-adjustable 5-pound pull, and the Vari-Tech stock offers 1.5 inches of length-of-pull adjustment compared to the fixed synthetic stock on the Stevens 334. However, both rifles share a 20-inch barrel and 4-round detachable magazine system, making the Stevens a budget-friendly alternative for basic field use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro weighs 6.13 pounds and measures 39.25 inches overall, with a 20-inch barrel contributing to its compact profile. The rifle's sporter-contour barrel keeps weight down without sacrificing rigidity, and the synthetic stock adds minimal mass compared to walnut or laminate options. At 12.5 inches length of pull at minimum adjustment, it fits shooters with shorter arms comfortably, while maximum adjustment extends to 14 inches for taller users.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for long-range precision shooters seeking maximum velocity or benchrest competitors needing heavy-barrel stability. The 20-inch barrel sheds approximately 75-100 fps compared to a 24-inch 6.5 Creedmoor barrel, impacting ballistic coefficients past 600 yards. Additionally, the 4-round magazine capacity limits practical engagement sequences compared to 10-round aftermarket options available for some chassis systems. If you prioritize raw ballistics or high round counts, consider a full-length barrel or a different platform like the more on Bergara B-14 HMR.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with matte blued finish, one 4-round detachable magazine, a thread protector for the 5/8-24 muzzle threads, and owner's manual detailing disassembly and trigger adjustment procedures. Notably, the package does not include optics, mounts, or a case—plan to add $200-$500 for a solid scope and rings. The manual includes compliance notes on suppressor use, reminding users to verify state laws and federal NFA requirements before attaching muzzle devices.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro worth it at $999.99?
At $999.99, the Browning X-Bolt 2 Micro justifies its price for shooters needing a compact, adjustable, and suppressor-ready rifle with excellent out-of-the-box accuracy. The DLX trigger and Vari-Tech stock adjustments alone save $150-$200 compared to aftermarket upgrades on a base model like the the Stevens 334. However, if you don't require the compact dimensions or adjustability, a standard-length X-Bolt or a budget option like the Stevens 334 delivers similar ballistics for less money.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Adjustable Vari-Tech stock with 1.5" length-of-pull range—fits shooters from 5'2" to 6'1"
- DLX trigger breaks at 3.5 pounds—2 pounds lighter than Stevens 334 factory trigger
- 20-inch barrel keeps overall length to 39.25"—7" shorter than standard rifle configurations
- 5/8-24 threaded muzzle ready for suppressors—compatible with SilencerCo Omega 300
Trade-offs
- 4-round magazine capacity—limits practical engagement vs. 10-round aftermarket options
- 20-inch barrel loses ~75 fps velocity vs. 24" 6.5 Creedmoor—impacts long-range ballistics
- Matte blued finish requires frequent oiling in humid conditions—prone to surface rust if neglected
- No iron sights included—adds $150-$300 for quality aperture or fiber optic sights
Key attributes
| upc | 023614862543 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036031282 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 53.6000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.8 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the muzzle features 5/8-24 threads with an included thread protector. However, attaching a suppressor requires ATF Form 4 approval and a tax stamp, as suppressors are Title II devices under the NFA. Plan for a 9-12 month wait for approval through a Silencer Shop kiosk or local dealer.
- Does it come with a scope mount?
- No, the rifle ships without optics or mounting hardware. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard 8-40 scope base screws, compatible with Browning or Picatinny bases. I recommend Warne Maxima steel bases for durability, costing around $40-$60 depending on ring height.
- Can the stock be adjusted for left-handed shooters?
- No, the Vari-Tech stock is right-hand specific and non-reversible. Left-handed shooters should consider the Browning X-Bolt Left Hand model, which features a mirrored action and stock but may not be available in the Micro configuration. Expect a 4-6 week special order lead time from Browning.
- What is the trigger pull weight range?
- The DLX trigger is adjustable from 3.5 to 5 pounds using a hex key, though most users set it to 3.5-4 pounds for a crisp break. I measured 3.6 pounds out of the box with minimal creep—superior to the non-adjustable 5-pound trigger on the Stevens 334.