Browning X-Bolt 2 Special Max LR 6.5 PRC 24-inch Threaded
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Special Max LR 6.5 PRC 24-inch Threaded is a precision-oriented bolt-action rifle engineered for consistent long-range accuracy under field conditions, blending a rigid heavy sporter barrel with a fully tunable composite stock pattern and threaded muzzle. This model represents the current evolution of Browning’s controlled-round-feed X-Bolt platform, specifically configured for handloaders and shooters who stretch distances beyond typical hunting ranges. It’s built from stainless steel for corrosion resistance and arrives ready to accept a direct-thread suppressor or muzzle brake, assuming the user has secured the required federal tax stamp for NFA-regulated devices.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Special Max LR 6.5 PRC 24-inch Threaded used for?
This rifle serves as a dedicated platform for precision long-range hunting and target shooting where adjustments for shooter fit and environmental compensation are required. The 1:7 twist 24-inch barrel stabilizes longer, heavier 6.5 PRC projectiles (like the 147gr ELD-M) optimally for terminal performance and wind bucking past 500 yards. The adjustable Max stock provides precise comb height and length-of-pull modifications, crucial for maintaining identical eye-to-optic alignment between the bench and an uneven field position.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Special Max LR compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Special Max LR excels in precision-tuned ergonomics and long-range barrel harmonics at the cost of weight and price compared to the utilitarian Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic. Where the Stevens 334 delivers a reliable 2 MOA hunting rifle at approximately 6.5 pounds and half the price, the Browning provides a 1 MOA-or-better guarantee with its factory-tuned adjustable trigger and heavy, threaded 24-inch barrel, but demands you carry its 8.01-pound weight and invest more in optics and ammunition suitable for its 6.5 PRC chambering.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 8.01 pounds (3.63 kg) unloaded and without optics, and measures 44.13 inches (112.1 cm) in overall length. The barrel is manufactured with a heavy sporter contour, measuring 24.0 inches (61.0 cm) from the front of the receiver to the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle, which provides significant stiffness for consistent harmonic node placement with suppressors or brakes. This package is 24% heavier and over 4 inches longer than the Stevens 334 .243 Win 20″ Bolt-Action Rifle, resulting in greater stability but less maneuverability in dense brush.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the first-time bolt-action buyer or a hunter seeking a lightweight, fast-handling rifle for close-quarters timber or mountain terrain. The total system weight will exceed 10 pounds with a modern 30mm scope and rings, and the 24-inch barrel presents a handling challenge in tight blinds or thick vegetation. Additionally, 6.5 PRC factory ammunition costs $2.50-$4.00 per round, making high-volume practice expensive compared to .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor platforms.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle assembly, a steel thread protector for the 5/8x24 muzzle threads, a flush-fit 3-round detachable box magazine, and the owner's manual. Brownells ships the rifle in a manufacturer-specific cardboard box secured with foam inserts. It does not include optic mounting hardware, a cleaning kit, or the necessary Form 4 paperwork for an attached suppressor; those are the buyer’s responsibility to supply separately.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Special Max LR worth it at $989.99?
At $989.99, this rifle offers substantial value for the precision shooter who requires an adjustable stock, a threaded heavy barrel, and a target-grade trigger directly from the factory. Completing a similar build from a custom action and aftermarket stock would exceed $1,800 before gunsmithing fees. However, for the hunter who needs a reliable, sub-7-pound rifle for standard 300-yard shots, an option like the Stevens 334 .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic at roughly $450 represents a more practical investment.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Heavy sporter 24-inch barrel provides a 1 MOA factory guarantee with match ammunition.
- Fully adjustable Max composite stock offers 0.75 inches of comb height travel and 1.25 inches of length-of-pull adjustment.
- DLX target trigger adjustably breaks between 2.5 and 5 pounds with minimal creep.
- Stainless steel construction and threaded 5/8x24 muzzle resist corrosion and accept suppressors.
Trade-offs
- At 8.01 pounds naked, the rifle demands a heavy scope mount to balance, creating a 10+ pound total system.
- The 6.5 PRC chambering limits affordable factory ammunition selection compared to 6.5 Creedmoor.
- The three-position safety does not lock the bolt handle when engaged, a departure from some competing designs.
Key attributes
| upc | 023614869559 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036120294 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5 PRC |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the barrel has 5/8x24 threads with a 30-degree target crown, compatible with most .30 caliber and smaller direct-thread suppressors from manufacturers like SilencerCo and Dead Air. You must complete and submit a BATFE Form 4 and pay a $200 tax stamp before taking possession of the suppressor itself.
- What scope base does it take?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped for a Remington 700 short-action footprint scope base. Use #6-48 screws torqued to 15-18 in/lbs. I recommend a Picatinny rail from Warne or EGW for maximum ring compatibility and zero retention.
- Does it come with a magazine?
- Yes, it includes one AICS-pattern detachable box magazine with a 3-round capacity. Additional factory magazines are available through Browning's parts division, but expect a 6-8 week lead time for special orders.
- What is the trigger pull weight range?
- The adjustable Deluxe (DLX) trigger can be set from 2 pounds, 8 ounces up to 5 pounds using the supplied hex key. Factory default is approximately 3.5 pounds. I advise against adjusting below 2.5 pounds for a hunting rifle.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory ships via FedEx Ground with adult signature required. Transit time is typically 4-7 business days to the continental U.S. after your FFL's license is verified and payment clears.