Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter 6.5 PRC 24in Walnut

About this product

The Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter 6.5 PRC 24in Walnut is a bolt-action hunting rifle that balances classic walnut stock aesthetics with modern action engineering for precision shooting at extended ranges, chambered in 6.5 PRC with a 24-inch sporter-contour barrel. It represents Browning's second-generation refinement of the X-Bolt platform, specifically designed for hunters who need reliable mechanical performance under field conditions. The rifle's design prioritizes controlled follow-up shots and consistent point-of-impact through a free-floated barrel and a reconfigured receiver.

What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter used for?

This rifle is engineered for hunting medium to large game at distances where other cartridges like .308 Winchester lose steam, specifically from 300 to 700 yards on animals like elk or mule deer. The 6.5 PRC cartridge delivers a flatter trajectory and higher retained energy at those ranges compared to a standard 6.5 Creedmoor, making the rifle ideal for open-country Western hunting. Its 6.1-pound weight and 44-inch overall length make it manageable for spot-and-stalk hunting, though the 24-inch barrel can be unwieldy in thick timber.

How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The X-Bolt 2 Hunter is a more refined, precision-focused platform than the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, which is better suited as an entry-level, no-nonsense utility rifle. The Browning's patent-pending adjustable DLX trigger offers a cleaner, more predictable break than the Stevens' basic trigger, directly translating to tighter groups at distance. However, the Stevens 334's synthetic stock and lower price point make it a more practical choice for harsh weather or as a loaner rifle.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 6.1 pounds (2.77 kg) unloaded and measures 44 inches (1118 mm) in overall length, with a 24-inch (610 mm) barrel. The sporter-contour barrel has a diameter of approximately 0.650 inches at the muzzle, which is slimmer than a varmint contour but stiffer than a lightweight pencil profile. The walnut stock has a length of pull of 13.625 inches, which is standard for an adult hunting rifle but may require adjustment for shooters under 5'8".

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for shooters on a tight budget who plan fewer than 20 rounds per year, as the 6.5 PRC ammunition costs roughly $2.80 per round for factory hunting loads. It's also a poor choice for dense-cover hunting where quick maneuvering is critical; the 24-inch barrel adds swing weight and snags on brush more easily than the 20-inch barrel on the Stevens 334 in .243 Win. Finally, it's not ideal for new shooters unfamiliar with managing magnum-level recoil, despite the 1.25-inch Inflex pad.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with one 3-round detachable steel magazine, a set of standard 8-40 scope base mounting screws, and the factory manual covering basic disassembly. No thread protector, chamber flag, or trigger adjustment tool is included; you'll need a 1.5mm hex key to adjust the DLX trigger pull weight, which ranges from 2.5 to 5 pounds. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped with a #6-48 screw pattern, compatible with most Weaver-style bases.

Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter worth it at $1129.99?

At $1129.99, the X-Bolt 2 Hunter is worth the investment for a hunter who already owns optics and understands the ballistic advantages of the 6.5 PRC cartridge, seeking a reliable out-of-the-box rifle that requires minimal gunsmithing. The price reflects the cost of the checkered American walnut stock and the refined action, which cycles with about 30% less bolt lift effort than the previous X-Bolt generation. For a shooter who prioritizes pure budget or plans to immediately modify the stock and trigger, a base model like the Stevens 334 represents better value.