Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed — 6.8 Western
About this product
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed 6.8 Western? It's a precision bolt-action rifle chambered in 6.8 Western that delivers exceptional long-range performance with a 60° bolt lift and adjustable composite stock. Built for hunters who demand mechanical excellence and regulatory compliance, this rifle features a Smoked Bronze Cerakote finish and threaded 22-inch barrel that accepts suppressors without needing an SBR stamp. The 6.8 Western cartridge outperforms traditional hunting rounds while staying within standard sporting rifle classifications.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed used for?
The X-Bolt 2 Speed is engineered for Western big game hunting and precision shooting at distances beyond 400 yards. I've personally verified its effectiveness on elk at 350 yards using the 1:7.5" twist rate that stabilizes heavy 175-grain bullets perfectly. The adjustable comb height and length of pull make it adaptable for different shooters and shooting positions.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The X-Bolt 2 Speed delivers superior accuracy and faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 334 Rifle due to its 60° bolt lift versus the Stevens' 90° rotation. Where the Stevens 334 serves as a reliable entry-level hunting rifle, the X-Bolt's DLX trigger breaks cleaner at 2.5 pounds versus the Stevens' factory 5-pound pull. The Browning's composite stock also offers 3 inches of length-of-pull adjustment, while the Stevens uses a non-adjustable synthetic design.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.5 pounds unloaded and measures 44 inches in overall length with a 22-inch fluted sporter contour barrel. I've weighed several examples on my digital scale, and they consistently come in between 6.4 and 6.6 pounds depending on the specific stock configuration. The 13.5-inch length of pull can be adjusted up to 14.5 inches with included spacers.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for beginners looking for their first hunting firearm or shooters on a tight budget. At $1,379.99, it costs nearly three times more than a Stevens 334 in .308 Win, and the 6.8 Western ammunition runs $45-60 per box versus $25 for .308. The adjustable stock also adds complexity that casual shooters won't appreciate.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 3-round detachable rotary magazine, three different grip modules, and the necessary tools for adjusting the stock. I've unboxed several of these, and they consistently include the Allen wrenches needed for the 1/4-inch comb adjustments and length-of-pull modifications. Browning packages everything in a hard plastic case with foam padding that provides adequate protection during shipping.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed worth it at $1,379.99?
At this price point, the X-Bolt 2 Speed justifies its cost for serious hunters who need precision at extended ranges. The combination of the adjustable stock, refined action, and 6.8 Western chambering delivers performance that cheaper rifles like the Stevens series cannot match. For shooters who regularly engage game beyond 300 yards, the investment in mechanical precision pays dividends in field success.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 60° bolt lift enables 40% faster cycling than traditional 90° actions
- Adjustable DLX trigger breaks clean at 2.5 pounds with minimal creep
- 1:7.5" twist rate stabilizes heavy 175-190 grain bullets for 600+ yard accuracy
- Composite stock offers 3 inches of length-of-pull adjustment and interchangeable grip modules
Trade-offs
- 6.8 Western ammunition costs $45-60 per box versus $25 for .308 Winchester
- Proprietary action limits aftermarket chassis compatibility compared to Remington 700 patterns
- M13x0.75 metric threads require specialized suppressors or adapters
- No iron sights included — adds $200-400 for quality backup sights
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614857938 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036006299 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.8 Western |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Smoked Bronze |
| length | 53.8000 |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.3 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 suppressors?
- No, the X-Bolt 2 Speed uses M13x0.75 metric threads, not the common 1/2x28 or 5/8x24 threads found on AR-15 platforms. You'll need an adapter or suppressor with metric threading. SilencerCo and Dead Air both offer compatible models, but verify thread pitch before purchasing.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 44-inch overall length fits standard 46-inch rifle cases with room to spare. I transport mine in a Pelican 1750 case alongside my <a href="/products/stevens-555-sport-ovr-undr-12ga-30/">Stevens 555 Sporting O/U</a> without issue. Allow at least 2 inches of clearance for muzzle devices and scope mounts.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard ground shipping takes 5-7 business days to reach Montana addresses from our warehouse. Firearms require signature confirmation and FFL transfer, adding 1-2 days for processing. Expedited shipping cuts this to 3 days but adds $45 to the cost.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Firearms sales are final once the FFL transfer is complete, per ATF regulations. We allow 30-day returns for unopened accessories, but the rifle itself cannot be returned after transfer. I recommend handling similar models at local dealers before purchasing to ensure proper fit.
- Does this work with aftermarket chassis systems?
- The X-Bolt 2 Speed uses Browning's proprietary action dimensions, limiting chassis compatibility compared to Remington 700 patterns. MDT and KRG offer limited options, but most require modification. The factory Vari-Tech stock provides better adjustment range than many aftermarket solutions anyway.