Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special – 6.5 Creedmoor, 22″
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special is a full-size bolt-action rifle chambered in 6.5mm Creedmoor, engineered for western hunting and precision field work. This 22″ barreled rifle features a matte stainless threaded barrel and a drilled & tapped receiver, with an adjustable composite stock system. At 6.10 lbs unloaded and with a 4+1 capacity, it balances mobility with practical firepower for sustained engagements in variable terrain.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special used for?
This rifle is engineered for ethical western hunting of medium game and precision field shooting at extended ranges. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge maintains energy out to 600 yards, making it suitable for mule deer and pronghorn, while the adjustable comb and 1:8″ twist barrel stabilize 140-grain hunting bullets for consistent terminal performance. It's a tool for hunters who cover ground and need first-round accuracy from unorthodox shooting positions.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The X-Bolt 2 provides superior out-of-the-box accuracy potential and ergonomic adjustability at a $300+ premium over the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win. Where the Stevens 334 offers a basic, reliable 20″ platform for woods hunting, the X-Bolt 2's adjustable deluxe trigger (factory-set to 3.5 lbs), X-Lock scope mounting system, and threaded 22″ stainless barrel are built for precise, repeatable shots in open country. For backcountry hunters prioritizing weight savings and long-range ballistics, the 6.5 Creedmoor chambering and lighter 6.10 lb platform of the X-Bolt 2 is the better choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 6.10 lbs (98 ounces), with an overall length of 42.5 inches from buttpad to muzzle crown. The 22″ sporter-contour barrel has a 5/8″-24 thread pattern, accepting standard muzzle devices and suppressors. The composite stock adjusts for length of pull via spacers and features a comb that adjusts vertically over a 0.75-inch range, accommodating various optic heights and cheek weld preferences.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for budget-conscious plinkers or those requiring a compact truck gun. The $850.99 price point and specialized western features like the adjustable comb add complexity and cost over simpler models like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. The 22″ barrel also makes it less ideal for tight blinds or dense timber where a 20″ or 18″ barrel offers better maneuverability.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 5/8″-24 thread protector, three comb height adjustment spacers, one torque wrench for the X-Lock scope mount base (set to 25 in-lbs), and the owner's manual with NFA and state compliance addendum. The box does not include scope rings, a sling, or a case—common accessories you'll need to source separately for a complete field-ready package.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special worth it at $850.99?
Yes, for hunters who specifically need its combination of long-range accuracy features and adjustable ergonomics. You're paying for the machined stainless steel action, the proven X-Lock mounting system (which eliminates scope base canting), and the factory-tuned 3.5 lb trigger—features that would cost $200+ to add to a basic rifle. If your hunting is done inside 200 yards from a fixed stand, a more affordable option like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win will perform the same task for nearly $300 less.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory-adjusted 3.5 lb trigger pull — lighter and crisper than most production rifle triggers
- 4+1 detachable box magazine — one more round than many traditional hinged-floorplate hunting rifles
- Adjustable comb height with 0.75″ of vertical travel — accommodates high-mount optics without aftermarket pads
- 22″ 1:8 twist stainless barrel — stabilizes long, heavy-for-caliber bullets up to 147 grains
Trade-offs
- No included scope rings — adds $50-100 to the true cost of mounting an optic
- Composite stock lacks texturing — may feel slick with wet gloves compared to overmolded or stippled alternatives
- Right-hand only configuration — no factory left-hand model available in this Western Hunter Special variant
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614869405 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036118282 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor?
- Yes, the 22″ matte stainless barrel has a standard 5/8″-24 thread pattern, compatible with most .30 caliber muzzle devices and suppressors from brands like SilencerCo and Dead Air. The thread protector ships installed but requires removal, and proper timing of any muzzle device may require shims or a crush washer not included in the box.
- What is the thread pattern for the receiver?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard #8-40 thread pattern for scope bases. It comes pre-installed with Browning's proprietary X-Lock base, which uses an integrated cross-locking system that eliminates canting—a torque wrench set to 25 in-lbs is included for installation.
- Does it come with a scope mount or rings?
- No, the rifle includes the X-Lock rail system base but not the rings themselves. You will need to purchase Browning X-Lock rings (available in low, medium, and high heights) or a compatible Picatinny rail adapter separately to mount your optic.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard ground shipping to Montana addresses typically takes 5-7 business days from order processing. All firearms ship to your selected FFL holder, and you must provide that FFL's license information before shipment—allow 1-2 additional business days for license verification if using a new dealer.