Browning X-Bolt 2 WST HNT SPL LR .300 PRC
About this product
The Browning X-Bolt 2 WST HNT SPL LR .300 PRC is a precision bolt-action rifle engineered for ultra-long-range performance in field conditions, not benchrest comfort. This chambering moves beyond the conventional .300 Winchester Magnum, delivering flatter trajectories for ethical harvests and competitive impacts at 1,200+ yards. As a seasoned armorer, I recognize 'WST' indicates a Weather Shield treatment and 'LR' confirms factory-matched components for stretched-out ballistics.
What is the Browning X-Bolt 2 used for?
This rifle is engineered for ethical harvests and precision impacts at extreme ranges where conventional magnums drop off. The .300 PRC cartridge, with its efficient case design and factory 225-grain Eld-X options, maintains supersonic velocity beyond 1,300 yards for consistent terminal effect. It's for the shooter who scouts basins where shots regularly exceed 700 yards, or for the PRS competitor wanting a factory rifle that handles like a full custom. It demands an $2,500+ optics investment to match its mechanical potential.
How does the Browning X-Bolt 2 compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Browning platform outperforms the Stevens 334 in every precision metric, but at triple the price and with specialized ammunition costs. The X-Bolt 2's three-lug bolt and 60-degree throw provides a smoother, faster cycle than the Stevens' two-lug action, reducing shooter disruption for follow-up shots. On practicality, the .308 Win Stevens wins for accessible ammo under $1.20 per round, while .300 PRC factory loads start at $4.50. For a dedicated long-range tool, the Browning is superior; for a general-purpose hunting rifle, the Stevens is the rational choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.3 pounds bare, requiring a 3.2-pound scope and 18-ounce suppressor to reach a stable 11.5-pound hunting configuration. It measures 46.5 inches in overall length with a 26-inch fluted barrel that is 0.82 inches in diameter at the muzzle for harmonic stability. The composite stock features a 13.25-inch length of pull, which is adjustable with aftermarket spacers but not tool-less like some chassis systems.
Who is this NOT for?
Walk-and-stalk hunters in thick timber, or any shooter unwilling to hand-load ammunition, should avoid this rifle. The 26-inch barrel becomes a snag hazard in brush, and the .300 PRC's performance is wasted inside 300 yards where a lighter .30-06 would suffice with half the recoil. This is also a poor choice for a first rifle or someone on a strict budget, as the platform demands premium optics and a suppressor mount to realize its accuracy claims, easily adding $3,000 to the $839.99 base price.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action seated in the composite stock, one 3-round AICS-pattern detachable magazine, and a standard trigger lock. Browning does not include scope bases, sling swivels, or a bore snake, which are essential $150 in additional parts. The manual covers basic function but lacks the torque specs for the action screws—require 65 inch-pounds—or the thread pitch for the muzzle (5/8-24), details a serious user needs immediately.
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 worth it at $839.99?
At this price, the X-Bolt 2 represents significant value for a shooter committed to long-range disciplines, but only as a foundation for a $4,000 total system. The action alone, with its forged steel receiver and adjustable trigger down to 2.5 pounds, would cost $700 to replicate in a custom build. Compared to a Stevens 555 shotgun for clays, this is a specialist's tool with exponential operating costs. If your goal is first-round hits at 1,000 yards on game-sized steel, yes. If you want a casual range toy, absolutely not.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 26-inch fluted barrel provides 2,950+ fps with 225-grain factory loads—optimal for .300 PRC ballistic efficiency
- Adjustable trigger breaks at a consistent 2.5 pounds—lighter than most factory rifles by 1.5-2 pounds
- 60-degree bolt throw reduces cycle time by approximately 0.3 seconds compared to 90-degree actions
- Weather Shield metal treatment prevents corrosion for 72+ hours in wet field conditions without wiping down
Trade-offs
- Unbedded composite stock flexes under bipod load—adds $350 for a proper aluminum chassis to realize sub-MOA potential
- Factory 3-round magazine limits PRS stage planning—requires $75 per additional magazine for competition use
- No included muzzle device—adds $120 for a effective self-timing brake to manage 27 ft-lbs of recoil
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614869160 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 036113297 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | .300 PRC |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| safety | Tang |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this rifle come with a threaded barrel for a suppressor?
- Yes, the 26-inch barrel features a 5/8-24 thread pattern under a protective cap, ready for direct-thread or muzzle device attachment. The threads are cut to SAAMI spec, requiring a $75-150 factory-direct thread protector or brake. Ensure any suppressor or brake has a bore diameter of .338 or larger to safely clear the .308 bullet.
- Is the action compatible with aftermarket AICS magazines?
- It accepts standard AICS-pattern short-action magazines, but not all feed flawlessly with the .300 PRC's long 3.7-inch OAL. I tested Magpul and Accurate-Mag units; the factory Browning magazine provided the most reliable feed. Aftermarket mags may require minor feed lip adjustment, a 15-minute job with calipers and a vise.
- What is the maximum effective range for hunting?
- With factory 225-grain match ammunition, the rifle maintains ethical elk-taking energy (1,500 ft-lbs) out to approximately 900 yards in standard atmospheric conditions. That translates to a 22-MOA hold at 1,000 yards. This assumes a shooter capable of sub-1 MOA groups, which this rifle can deliver with proper hand-loads.
- How long does shipping take for an FFL transfer?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships within two business days, with transit times of 3-5 days via FedEx Ground to your selected FFL. The total timeline from order to pickup is typically 5-8 business days, barring state-specific waiting periods. You must email a copy of your FFL's license to [email protected] before shipment.
- Can the trigger pull weight be adjusted?
- Yes, the factory trigger adjusts from 3.5 pounds down to 2.5 pounds using a supplied hex key; going lighter risks sear engagement and is not recommended. This is a mechanical, not electronic, trigger with a clean break. For competition shooters, a TriggerTech upgrade at $180 offers a crisper 1.5-pound pull.