The Browning X-Bolt 2

Introduction

I grew up within a short drive of the original Browning factory where the man himself designed and built many of his masterpieces. In fact, I could see the factory from my hunting spots where many of today’s pictures were taken. I feel somewhat guilty for being less familiar with the brand and their products, but today I aim to change that. The Browning brand has long stood for quality and innovation, and today’s subject is a direct result of that process. The Browning X-Bolt has been around for over a decade, but the time has come for a new generation. Today we hit the range and field with the brand-new Browning X-Bolt 2, the next step in Browning’s bolt-action family.

Browning, x-bolt, x-bolt 2, x-bolt speed, 308 win, vector optics, continental, 2-12x44, — at 2X the **Vector Continental scope** was great for close engagements in thick woods

X-Bolt 2 Heritage

Drawing from its predecessor the Browning A-Bolt; the X-Bolt rifle brought some more modern features while holding onto what was best from the A-Bolt’s design. I’ve had a few experiences with both over the years and was impressed with their attributes. The smooth action and short bolt throw of these rifles makes them pleasant to shoot. And with easy feeding they are always ready for action.

The release of the X-Bolt 2 brings an incredible diversity of products. As you scroll through the website there are too many options to mention. But rest assured there is a model for everyone’s taste. Whether it be walnut or polymer, steel or titanium, there is a stunning array of X-Bolt 2 options. You can get it with carbon fiber barrels, McMillan stocks, AICS magazine fed and many other options. The family of the X-Bolt 2 has an incredible host of applications for nearly any shooter.

Generational Changes

Evaluating the differences between the original X-Bolt and this new X-Bolt 2 gives some insight into what Browning designers were after. Some of the changes in the new X-Bolt went beyond simply different configurations.

Browning, x-bolt, x-bolt 2, x-bolt speed, 308 win, grip, disassembly, bedding, trigger, safety, — replaceable grips, improved trigger, bedded action are all things to like about the X-Bolt 2

The X-Bolt 2 action at the heart of the rifle received a restructuring, adding material in various places to increase strength. Additional support of the bolt in its stroke to add an even smoother operation. Changing the bolt-knob for better purchase and adding flutes and other facets to bolt-body also helps improve the feel.

Also new in this new generation X-Bolt is the DLX trigger, which has adjustable weight with no creep or overtravel. The composite Vari-Tech stock is also adjustable and handsomely finished with Browning’s Ovix camouflage. The soft Inflex recoil pad will help with heavier recoiling calibers. Perhaps one of my favorite improvements of the X-Bolt 2 is the belled muzzle. With industry standard thread pitches allowing you to install your favorite muzzle accoutrements. My previous experience with an X-Bolt required a thread adaptor to use my suppressor. That wouldn’t be a problem here. The X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR model we tested today also comes with a radial muzzle brake to reduce recoil.

Specifications

Action Length Short Action	Caliber 308 Win
Barrel Length 18″	Overall Length 38″
Length of Pull 13 5/8″ Adj	Drop at Comb 0″ Adj
Drop at Heel 1/10″ Adj	Weight 6 lbs 10 oz
Magazine Capacity 4	Twist Rate 10″
Barrel Finish Smoked Bronze Cerakote	Stock Finish Ovix
Receiver Finish Smoked Bronze Cerakote	Chamber Finish Polished
Barrel Material Steel	Barrel Contour Sporter SR
Stock Material Composite	Recoil Pad Inflex 1.25
Checkering Textured Grip Panels	Sling Swivel Studs Matte Blued
Receiver Material Steel	Trigger Finish Gold Plated
Bolt Slide Finish High Gloss	Magazine Type Detachable
Muzzle Threading 5/8 – 24 SR	Trigger Material Alloy
Trigger Guard Material Alloy	Trigger Guard Engraving Buck Mark in Gold
Floor Plate Material Composite	Drilled and Tapped for Scope Yes
MSRP $1,569.99

Configuring the X-Bolt 2

The Vari-Tech stock of the X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR can be adjusted for length of pull and comb-height. Neither of them is what I would call quick or field adjustable. Both processes are done using tools and taking off the rubber buttpad. This is a small concern considering that you don’t really need to adjust those things very often. It’s also a great feature that not many other rifles this style has. Using the scope and mount I did, the stock was perfect as it came from the factory.

Browning, x-bolt, x-bolt 2, x-bolt speed, 308 win, vector optics, continental, 2-12x44, banish backcountry suppresor, — This rifle is perfectly configured for Rocky Mountain country, with the **Quake Sling** and the Banish Backcountry suppressor

Upon inspecting the X-Bolt 2 after disassembly, I was even more impressed. Aside from the adjustable buttstock, you can replace the rubberized grip from a sporter angle to a more vertical style grip. Pulling a screw from under the action they are easily swapped. I greatly preferred the vertical grip so it went in place for the duration of the test.

While apart I also noticed that there was a factory bedding job. This is a great way to improve the marriage of action and stock together, which generally helps accuracy. I also like the four-bolt attachment of the scope bases. Double what most scope bases use, for better connection.

Browning, x-bolt, x-bolt 2, x-bolt speed, 308 win,

Kitting Out the X-Bolt 2

I hunt the western deserts and mountains of the US, it can often be feast or famine when it comes to hunting. The Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR seems to be made for just such country. Hunting these same mountains that John M. Browning himself used to traverse, I wanted to optimize the rifle that bears his name.

A Good Scope

A rifle like this one deserves a good companion optic. I chose to install one of my recent acquisitions, a Vector Optics Continental 2-12×44. The Continental offers very bright and clear images, a sharp focus, and an excellent turret system that would shine for long-range shooting. Using a pair of Nightforce medium 34mm rings, I attached the scope to the bases.

With hunting ranges around here varying from 100 yards to as far as you dare, these features would match the performance of the X-Bolt 2. And together I expected to push the limits to see how effective this combination would be.

Support

Additionally, I would install a Harris SL bipod for supported shooting. There are many bipod options, but I keep coming back to the simple option that keeps working for me. For transporting the rifle I also installed a Quake Industries rubberized sling. This simple and lightweight option makes carrying a rifle in the backcountry comfortable. And its rubber exterior keeps it from slipping off your shoulder.

Suppressor

With light seen at the end of the NFA tunnel, suppressors have become a commanding presence. Few practices benefit from suppressors as much as hunting, and I am a bit of an enthusiast.

Installing my Banish Backcountry titanium suppressor would make this Browning a bit more polite. The lightweight would also keep the rifle easy to move through these high Rocky Mountains.

Ammunition

For a little variety, I brought a spread of ammo from different manufacturers. Two options from Hornady, the 155 Black ammunition, and the 150 grain American Whitetail. To mix it up, I also brought some Barnes VORTX 130 grain, as well as some DTM 175 grain Match.