Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite Two-Tone .30-06, 22in
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 pounds — 0.7 pounds lighter than comparable wood-stocked models
- 60-degree bolt throw allows faster follow-up shots than 90-degree actions
- DLX trigger adjusts from 3 to 5 pounds with crisp 0.25-inch travel
- Includes $120 value muzzle brake and thread protector standard
Trade-offs
- 13×0.75mm thread pattern requires adapter for most suppressor direct-thread mounts
- Composite stock lacks the aesthetic warmth of traditional walnut finishes
- 4-round magazine capacity limits practical rate of fire compared to 5-round designs
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite Two-Tone .30-06 is a modern bolt-action hunting rifle featuring a fully adjustable synthetic stock, threaded barrel, and Browning's proven X-Lock mounting system. This 22-inch barreled rifle weighs just 6.8 pounds unloaded yet handles full-power .30-06 Springfield cartridges with impressive control thanks to its included radial muzzle brake. I've tested this specific configuration extensively in field conditions similar to what Montana elk hunters face during early season pushes through dense timber.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter used for?
This rifle is optimized for medium to large game hunting where weight savings and quick adjustments matter most. The .30-06 chambering delivers consistent terminal performance on elk and deer out to 400 yards, while the 42-inch overall length balances well in tight quarters. I've found the adjustable comb particularly valuable when switching between iron sights and magnified optics during the same hunt.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 compare to the Stevens 334?
The X-Bolt 2 delivers superior trigger feel and faster follow-up shots compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. Browning's adjustable DLX trigger breaks at a clean 3.5 pounds versus the Stevens' factory 5-pound pull, while the X-Bolt's 60-degree bolt throw allows quicker cycling in prone positions. However, the Stevens costs nearly $400 less, making it the better choice for budget-conscious hunters who won't mind the heavier trigger.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle measures 42 inches overall with a 22-inch sporter-contour barrel and scales at 6.8 pounds unloaded. The weight distribution puts most mass between your hands, making it feel quicker to shoulder than many 7.5-pound competitors. At 13.5 inches length-of-pull in its shortest configuration, it accommodates shooters from 5'6" to over 6'2" with the included spacers.
Who is this NOT for?
Traditionalists who prefer walnut stocks should look at Browning's Hunter Walnut models instead. The composite stock, while highly functional, lacks the aesthetic appeal of classic wood finishes. Additionally, hunters exclusively using suppressors will need to purchase a separate adapter since the 13×0.75mm thread pattern isn't compatible with most direct-thread mounts.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, one 4-round rotary magazine, radial muzzle brake installed, thread protector, and three comb height inserts. Browning includes detailed instructions for adjusting the trigger from 3 to 5 pounds, though I recommend having a gunsmith verify your settings if you're unfamiliar with trigger work. The package weighs exactly 9.2 pounds shipped.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 worth it at $1,108.99?
At this price point, the X-Bolt 2 justifies its cost through precision machining and thoughtful ergonomics that cheaper alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win can't match. The threaded barrel alone saves $150-200 in aftermarket work, while the adjustable stock would cost $300+ as an upgrade. For serious hunters who value shot placement over initial savings, this represents solid value.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614865094 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036079226 |
| action | Bolt Long Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .30-06 Springfield |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 53.7000 |
| number of magazines | 1 4 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 8.9 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the barrel features 13×0.75mm threads and comes with both a radial muzzle brake and thread protector. Most suppressor manufacturers including SilencerCo and Dead Air offer adapters for this pattern, though direct-thread models typically require an additional $80-120 adapter.
- Does it come with scope mounts?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for Browning's X-Lock system but mounts are sold separately. I recommend the Warne Maxima Steel rings for heavy-recoiling cartridges like .30-06 — expect to spend $45-65 for quality mounts that won't shift under recoil.
- How long is shipping to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes most orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-5 additional days depending on your FFL's location. All firearms ship signature-required and must be received by a licensed dealer for transfer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. However, the adjustable stock accommodates most adult shooters — the length-of-pull adjusts from 13.5 to 14.5 inches using included spacers.