Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite .308 Win 22 in 4rd
Pros & cons
What works
- DLX trigger adjustable from 3-5 lbs — 2 lbs lighter than most factory triggers
- Vari-Tech stock offers 0.75" length-of-pull adjustment — eliminates need for spacers
- Free-floated barrel maintains 0.75 MOA accuracy — meets Browning's guarantee with match ammo
- 60° bolt throw clears scopes 1.5" above bore — 30% faster than 90° actions
Trade-offs
- 4-round magazine capacity limits practical rate of fire — half of some competing detachable box systems
- Matte bluing shows wear after 500 rounds — requires frequent oiling in humid conditions
- Radial brake increases report by 3 dB — hearing protection mandatory even hunting
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite .308 Win 22" 4rd is a precision-engineered bolt-action hunting rifle featuring an adjustable composite stock and threaded barrel designed for serious hunters who require field-ready adaptability. This rifle achieves a 0.75 MOA accuracy guarantee with factory match ammunition right out of the box, balancing its 6.8 lb weight against the Stevens 334 .308 Win's 6.6 lb frame with superior ergonomic adjustments. Built around Browning's proven short 60° bolt throw and free-floated sporter contour barrel, it addresses the common hunter's need for quick follow-up shots and customizable fit without gunsmithing.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite used for?
The X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite is engineered for medium to large game hunting where shot placement matters more than rapid fire. I've seen it perform consistently on elk at 300 yards and deer at 150 yards, with the 22-inch barrel optimizing .308 Winchester's ballistic efficiency without becoming unwieldy in dense timber. The adjustable comb and length of pull mean you can dial in your cheek weld for different optics, whether you're running a low-power variable or a dedicated long-range scope.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The X-Bolt 2 outperforms the Stevens 334 Rifle in trigger adjustability and stock customization, though the Stevens costs $400 less. Where the Stevens offers a basic synthetic stock and serviceable trigger, the Browning features a DLX trigger adjustable from 3 to 5 pounds and a Vari-Tech stock with 0.75 inches of length-of-pull adjustment. For hunters who spend days in the field, the Browning's ergonomic refinements justify the premium.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 6.8 pounds empty and measures 42 inches overall with its 22-inch barrel. The weight distribution puts the balance point 12 inches forward of the trigger guard, making it feel lighter in the hand than the scale suggests. Compare this to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U at 7.9 pounds, and you'll appreciate how the X-Bolt 2 manages recoil while maintaining huntable portability.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for budget-conscious plinkers or those wanting maximum magazine capacity. The 4-round rotary magazine limits practical rate of fire compared to detachable box magazine systems, and at $1,072.99, it costs nearly double some entry-level alternatives. If you're primarily shooting at ranges under 100 yards or want a truck gun that can take abuse without worry, consider more economical options.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle with one 4-round rotary magazine, the factory-installed radial muzzle brake, and owner's manual covering the 1:10 twist rate barrel specifications. Unlike some competitors, Browning includes the thread protector (13×0.75mm) separately packaged, so check the box thoroughly before discarding packaging. The manual details the 3-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects but excludes normal wear.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite worth it at $1,072.99?
At this price point, the X-Bolt 2 delivers value through its out-of-the-box accuracy and adjustment features that typically require aftermarket investment. The DLX trigger alone would cost $200-$300 to retrofit on a basic rifle, and the stock adjustments save another $150 in gunsmithing. For hunters who need sub-MOA performance and custom fit without modifications, the investment pays off in confidence when that trophy animal steps into your sights.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614865056 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036079218 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" Sporter Barrel |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 53.8500 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 54.0 |
| package width | 3.4 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.4 |
| sights | No Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .308 Winchester ammunition?
- Yes, it handles all SAAMI-spec .308 Winchester and 7.62×51 NATO ammunition safely. I've tested everything from 150-grain soft points to 175-grain match loads without issues, though the 1:10 twist rate optimizes stabilization for 168-180 grain projectiles. Avoid +P or wildcat loads not conforming to SAMMI pressure standards.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- The 42-inch overall length requires a 44-inch or larger hard case for proper protection. I use a Plano All-Weather case with foam cutouts, which provides 2 inches of clearance at muzzle and buttpad. Soft cases under 40 inches will compress the stock adjustments over time.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 5-7 days to Montana addresses. We require signed FFL documents before shipment, so coordinate with your local dealer beforehand to avoid delays. Expedited shipping cuts this to 3 days for an additional $45.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- All firearms sales are final once the FFL transfer is complete, per ATF regulations. We offer a 30-day inspection period where we'll address any manufacturing defects, but fit and preference aren't valid return reasons. Handle the firearm at a local dealer first if uncertain about ergonomics.
- Does this work with common suppressor mounts?
- The 13×0.75mm thread pattern matches direct-thread suppressors from Dead Air and SilencerCo using standard adapters. I've mounted a Nomad-L using a 5/8-24 to 13×0.75mm adapter with 0.002 inch clearance verified with feeler gauges. Always check concentricity before firing suppressed.