Gunner Quinn
When you get something right the first time, creating a significantly different 2.0 version becomes a real challenge. This scenario has played out with legendary firearms like the Colt M1911 and the Mossberg 500, and now we see it happening with Browning’s X-Bolt. Earlier this year, the Utah-based Browning Firearms released an update to its multi-faceted bolt-action rifle line, aiming to enhance the X-Bolt platform with new features, all while preserving the elements that have made it a favorite among shooters. With a solid reputation to uphold, I was curious to see what had changed, so I reached out to Browning for a test rifle. A few days later, I found myself unboxing the latest iteration—the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter.
True to its predecessor, the X-Bolt 2 Hunter retains the iconic tri-lug bolt system. This design is one of the standout features of the X-Bolt series, offering a shorter 60-degree bolt lift compared to the more common dual-lug configurations. A shorter bolt lift translates into faster cycling, which can be a game-changer in hunting situations that require quick follow-up shots. Browning kept this fundamental feature largely unchanged, but they did add a more ergonomically designed bolt knob for improved handling. Additionally, some extra guiding material was introduced to make the bolt’s operation smoother.
Removing the bolt from the receiver is a straightforward process: simply depress the button located on the left side, and the bolt slides out through the rear. Once removed, I got a closer look at Browning’s enlarged claw-style extractor, and the unique bolt unlock button integrated into the bolt handle. This button is particularly useful, as it allows the bolt to be cycled even when the safety is engaged. This feature adds a layer of safety when entering or exiting hunting grounds, making it a practical and thoughtful addition.
The X-Bolt 2’s action feeds from a rotary magazine, an efficient design for lower-capacity hunting rifles. This type of magazine makes use of previously wasted space and ensures a flush fit with the rifle when inserted. As with its predecessor, the mags remain compatible with the original X-Bolt series, meaning shooters with older X-Bolt rifles can still use their existing magazines. In the 6.5 mm Creedmoor variant that I tested, the magazine holds four rounds.
While the magazine itself is made largely from plastic, the bottom metal into which it locks is constructed from aluminum, adding a level of robustness and stability. This not only ensures a solid lock-up but also contributes to the overall durability of the trigger guard. The use of aluminum also serves a dual purpose by replacing aluminum pillars, and helping to stabilize the action within the beautifully crafted walnut stock. Browning has also used bedding material to further ensure a secure lock-in-key fit, enhancing accuracy.
Browning made only one significant change to the X-Bolt 2 Hunter’s stock: they added a slightly thicker recoil pad. Fans of the original model will be pleased to know that the classic checkering pattern has remained intact, and the stock still comes standard with a pair of sling studs.
Browning’s X-Bolt 2 lineup offers perhaps the most diverse barrel configurations of any product family the company has ever released. Buyers can choose from various options, including both steel and carbon-fiber barrels, with some models even shipping with threaded muzzle brakes. However, staying true to its roots, the Hunter 2 comes with a tapered, matte-finished steel barrel, complete with a recessed crown for added protection. Although carbon-fiber-wrapped barrels are gaining popularity, many hunters still prefer traditional steel, which the X-Bolt 2 delivers in spades.
Browning ships the rifle pre-drilled and tapped for either a one-piece rail or a pair of bases, meaning you’ll need to add hardware at checkout. Thankfully, the same scope bases used for the original X-Bolt will work here, and I had a well-used one-piece base in my drawer. For my test, I fitted the rifle with a Steiner 4-16X 44 mm Predator optic. As of this writing, it’s the world’s smallest and lightest scope in its class, keeping the rifle balanced and agile.
Along with the scope, I opted to attach a Magpul MOE bipod, which proved to be a wise decision for the field tests I had planned. This lightweight bipod is ideal for hunters looking to add stability without adding unnecessary weight. Furthermore, it claps directly to a stud, making for an effortless installation.
Ammunition selection for 6.5 mm Creedmoor has surpassed that of most other hunting cartridges, so in some ways, I had a lot to think about, and in others, nothing at all. Hornady’s Precision Hunter has been an excellent performer in nearly everything I feed it through and has become a staple in rifle tests in that it is widely available. Lapua’s Scenar load is one of the lightest on the market and, as such, stabilizes well and has the ability to produce outstanding consistency. Lastly was Underwood’s 140-grain match load, which represents the most common bullet weight for this cartridge, earning comfort before it even touches a magazine.
I began my range day by zeroing from the prone position, using a sand sock for rear support. My first impression was how well the bolt slid through the action, making each round effortless to rack. Aside from this, the improvements on the user-adjustable DLX trigger were also rather apparent. Overall, I found it crisp and free of overtravel, which are my two main criteria for any bang switch. My test sample came from the factory set to a break of 3 lbs., 6 ozs. which was darn close to as light as it could go.
Group testing revealed that the Hunter 2 wasn’t particularly picky with ammunition, as all three types were capable of sub-m.o.a. accuracy, with the Lapua cracking the half-m.o.a. mark on one occasion. Points of impact were also similar, so on that note, I grabbed a Champion shooting bag and took the rifle through my woods walk course of fire. This course features ten Caldwell silhouette targets and is designed to push you into uncomfortable shooting positions. I found that the rifle excelled in this environment and delivered on every front a hunter could expect.
My day ended with the firing of my 170th round, none of which displayed any trouble feeding or ejecting. The X-Bolt 2 Hunter provides everything hunters need for success when afield and is soft enough on the shoulder for extended-range work. Coupling these qualities makes the MSRP a little easier to accept, as it is admittedly high for its class. However, in this case, you are plenty sure as to what you are getting, and it’s hard to put a price on the earned trust of a proven design.
Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Specifications
Importer: Browning (Dept, AR), 1 Browning Place, Morgan, UT 84051; (800) 333-3288; browning.com
Manufacturer: Miroku Firearms, Japan
Action Type: bolt-action, centerfire, repeating Rifle
Chambering: 6.5 mm Creedmoor
Receiver: steel; matte finish
Barrel: 22” steel; 1:8” RH twist
Magazine: four-round detachable box
Sights: none; drilled and tapped
Stock: walnut
Trigger: single-stage, adjustable 3-lb., 2-oz. to 5-lb., 14-oz. pull
Overall Length: 42”
Length of Pull: 13.63”
Weight: 6 lbs., 8 ozs.
Accessories: owner’s manual, lock
MSRP: $1,180
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