Winchester XPR Compact .300 WSM 22in Vortex 3-9×40
About this product
The Winchester XPR Compact .300 WSM 22in Vortex 3-9×40 is a factory-zeroed, compact hunting rifle system chambered for the flat-shooting .300 Winchester Short Magnum cartridge. This package from Winchester pairs their 7-pound, 44-inch overall length XPR action with a mounted Vortex Crossfire II scope, offering a turnkey solution for hunters who need immediate field readiness without the gunsmithing overhead. As a lead armorer, I appreciate that the free-floating, button-rifled 22-inch barrel and the M.O.A. Trigger System represent legitimate out-of-the-box engineering, not just marketing claims.
What is the Winchester XPR Compact used for?
This rifle is optimized for Western elk and mountain hunting in timber or canyon country where shots range from 100 to 350 yards. The .300 WSM cartridge provides excellent terminal energy for large game, while the compact 44-inch overall length makes the rifle manageable in dense brush or a truck cab. The 3-9×40 Vortex Crossfire II with its BDC reticle is calibrated for the cartridge's ballistics, making ethical shots at those intermediate ranges mechanically straightforward.
How does the Winchester XPR Compact compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Winchester XPR Compact is a better hunting package than the Stevens 334 because it includes a mounted and optically centered scope, saving you at least $150 and an hour of gunsmith time. While the Stevens 334 rifle in .308 Winchester is a solid, budget-conscious action, you're buying a barreled receiver and stock that requires you to source, mount, and zero your own optic. The Winchester arrives with a functional, fog-proof 1-inch tube scope already torqued to spec, which is a significant operational advantage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7 pounds (3.18 kg) unloaded, with an overall length of 44 inches and a 22-inch free-floating barrel. The 1:10 twist rate stabilizes the heavier, high-BC bullets favored for .300 WSM's long-range potential. The synthetic stock has a length of pull around 13.25 inches, making it suitable for most adult shooters, though I'd recommend checking drop and cast for a perfect fit, especially under heavy recoil loads.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for a new shooter buying their first rifle nor for someone primarily interested in long-range precision shooting past 500 yards. The .300 WSM produces significant recoil—approximately 28 foot-pounds of energy—which is punishing for an inexperienced shooter. For pure target shooting, you'd be better served by a heavier-barreled rifle in a milder cartridge like .243 Winchester, where barrel heat and recoil fatigue are less of a factor.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action with the synthetic stock installed, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 scope mounted in factory-supplied rings and bases, and one 3-round detachable box magazine. The scope caps and a basic lens cloth are typically included. Crucially, the scope should be optically centered and bore-sighted from the factory, though a final zero confirmation at 100 yards with your chosen ammunition is mandatory.
Is the Winchester XPR Compact worth it at $711.99?
At $711.99, this package represents a genuine value for a hunter who needs a field-ready rifle without additional gunsmithing costs. Separately, the rifle retails for around $550 and the Vortex Crossfire II scope with rings for about $200, putting the package price at a slight discount while saving you the mounting labor. The main trade-off is accepting the Vortex's entry-level optical clarity and the rifle's utilitarian synthetic stock versus investing more for premium components.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory-zeroed Vortex Crossfire II scope included – saves $150+ in optics/mounting costs vs. buying separately.
- Weighs 7 lbs – 1.2 lbs lighter than a standard-length XPR in .300 WSM, improving carry comfort.
- Free-floating, button-rifled 22-inch barrel – promotes consistent harmonics for sub-MOA potential with match ammunition.
- 3+1 detachable magazine capacity – standard for the cartridge and allows for quick unloading in the field.
Trade-offs
- Synthetic stock exhibits noticeable flex in the forend under bipod pressure – reduces rigidity compared to a fiberglass or laminated stock.
- .300 WSM recoil is substantial (~28 ft-lbs) – the lightweight design amplifies perceived kick, requiring proper technique.
- Vortex Crossfire II is an entry-level scope – optical clarity diminishes noticeably at 9x magnification compared to a Viper HS-T.
- No aftermarket trigger adjustment tool included – the M.O.A. trigger is adjustable for pull weight, but requires a proprietary 1.5mm hex key not in the box.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 048702016011 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 535737255 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) |
| safety | Two-Position |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 9.7 |
| package width | 9.7 |
| package height | 3.7 |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .300 WSM ammunition?
- Yes, it's designed for factory-loaded .300 Winchester Short Magnum ammunition with a standard SAAMI maximum pressure of 65,000 PSI. I've cycled Federal Premium 180gr Trophy Bonded Tip and Winchester 150gr Power-Point rounds through the 3-round magazine without feed issues. Always consult your rifle's manual for specific bullet weight recommendations related to the 1:10 twist barrel.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it will fit in most 44-inch or larger takedown rifle cases. The 44-inch overall length means a 46-inch internal case length provides adequate clearance for the mounted scope. I recommend a hard case like a Plano All-Weather for airline travel, as the scope adds significant height to the profile.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships in-stock firearms within 2 business days once your FFL's license is verified. Transit time via FedEx Ground is typically 3-5 additional business days depending on your location. You must coordinate directly with your chosen FFL dealer for the transfer upon arrival.
- Can I return it if it has a mechanical defect?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for firearms with verified mechanical defects within 30 days, following all ATF regulations for transfer. The firearm must be returned through an FFL, and you are responsible for the associated transfer fees. Cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse do not qualify for return on firearms due to federal regulations.
- Does this work with a suppressor or muzzle brake?
- The 22-inch barrel has a standard 5/8-24 thread pattern under the factory-installed thread protector, making it compatible with many .30 caliber muzzle brakes and suppressors. Adding a muzzle device will increase the overall length by approximately 2-3 inches. Ensure any suppressor is rated for the .300 WSM cartridge's pressure and that you comply with all NFA regulations.