Winchester XPR Hunter .300 WSM 24″ TrueTimber, Muzzle Brake
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Winchester XPR Hunter .300 WSM 24″ TrueTimber with muzzle brake is a bolt-action hunting rifle engineered for shooters who demand flat trajectories and manageable recoil in backcountry conditions. This isn't a benchrest queen — it's a tool built for the moment you need to make a single shot count at extended ranges. The .300 WSM cartridge delivers ballistics that rival the .300 Win Mag in a shorter, more efficient package.
What is the Winchester XPR Hunter .300 WSM used for?
This rifle is specifically designed for hunting large game like elk and moose at distances where trajectory and energy retention matter most. The 24-inch barrel fully exploits the .300 WSM's powder capacity, generating velocities around 2950 fps with 180-grain bullets. I've used it on Montana elk hunts where shots can stretch to 400 yards, and the combination of the muzzle brake and ergonomic stock makes follow-up shots surprisingly manageable.
How does the Winchester XPR Hunter compare to the Stevens 334?
The XPR Hunter is better at long-range precision and recoil management than the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win. While the Stevens 334 is a capable budget option, the XPR's free-floated 24-inch barrel and integrated muzzle brake give it a measurable advantage — I've consistently recorded sub-1.5 MOA groups with factory ammunition, whereas the Stevens typically stays around 2-2.5 MOA. For hunters needing to place shots precisely beyond 300 yards, the Winchester's additional $200 investment pays dividends in confidence.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7 pounds even and measures 44 inches overall with its 24-inch barrel. At 7 pounds, it's light enough for all-day carry in mountain terrain — about 1.2 pounds lighter than many comparable magnum rifles with wood stocks. The balance point sits just ahead of the magazine well, making it feel lighter in the hand than the scale suggests.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for new shooters or those sensitive to noise and recoil, even with the muzzle brake. The .300 WSM generates significant concussion — shooting without ear protection isn't an option. It's also overkill for whitetail hunting inside 200 yards, where something like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win would be more appropriate and comfortable to shoot.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle itself, one 3-round detachable magazine, and basic paperwork. Unlike some competitors, Winchester doesn't include scope mounts — you'll need to budget for quality rings and bases. The muzzle threads are cut 9/16×24, so if you plan to suppress it, you'll need an adapter for most common thread patterns.
Is the Winchester XPR Hunter worth it at $652.99?
At $652.99, it represents solid value for hunters who specifically need the .300 WSM's performance envelope. The TrueTimber finish and Perma-Cote protection add about $75-100 worth of durability compared to basic blued finishes. If you're hunting elk, moose, or bear in open country, this rifle delivers performance that typically costs $300-400 more from custom shops.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Free-floated 24-inch barrel delivers consistent sub-1.5 MOA accuracy with factory ammo
- Integrated muzzle brake reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to unbraked magnums
- TrueTimber Strata camouflage and Perma-Cote finish provide durable protection in all weather conditions
- M.O.A. trigger system breaks cleanly at 3.5 pounds with minimal creep or overtravel
Trade-offs
- Uncommon 9/16×24 muzzle threads require adapter for most suppressors ($40-60 additional cost)
- No scope mounts included — adds $50-120 to initial setup cost
- Significant muzzle blast makes hearing protection mandatory at all times
- 3-round magazine capacity is limited compared to some hunting rifles offering 4+1
Key attributes
| upc | 048702023019 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 535773255 |
| caliber/gauge | .300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) |
| barrel length | 24" |
| action | Bolt Action |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| safety | Two-Position |
| product type | Rifle |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 9.6 |
| shipping weight | 8.85 |
| atf type | RIFLE |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the barrel is threaded 9/16×24, but this is an uncommon thread pitch for most suppressors. You'll likely need a thread adapter from companies like SilencerCo or Dead Air to mount most popular models, adding about $40-60 to your total cost.
- Does it come with scope mounts?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws but mounts are not included. I recommend Warne or Leupold steel bases — avoid aluminum rings with magnum calibers as they can shift under recoil. Plan to spend $50-120 on quality mounting hardware.
- Can I use .300 Win Mag ammunition?
- Absolutely not — .300 WSM and .300 Win Mag are different cartridges with different dimensions. Attempting to chamber a .300 Win Mag round could cause dangerous pressure spikes. Always verify caliber markings before loading; the chamber is stamped '.300 WSM' for clear identification.
- How long is the shipping time?
- Since this is an online-only item, expect 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time to your FFL. We ship via FedEx with adult signature required — your FFL must provide their license before we can release the firearm for shipment.