Browning X-Bolt Review

Precision rifle shooters and hunters alike tend to agree that the Browning X-Bolt is a seriously nice rifle. With the X-Bolt you get your choice of caliber and there are so many variants the options for stocks and finish are practically endless. It’s a quality bolt-action rifle backed by the trusted Browning name, so what’s not to like? Check out the details on the Browning X-Bolt and decide for yourself.

Browning X-Bolt Speed Background

The Browning X-Bolt has been in production since 2008. As its name suggests, it’s a bolt-action rifle. Browning designed the gun to provide superior accuracy and to appeal to the next generation of bolt-action shooters. When it was first announced, quite a few outdoors writers deemed it “radical” and “new age” in appearance. Today the aesthetic of the X-Bolt doesn’t raise any eyebrows and that’s even with the fact there are numerous variants out there with different visual appeal.

According to an interview with Joseph Rousseau, who was Browning’s engineer at that time, the creation of the X-Bolt was about more than just a better bolt-action. Marcus Heath, who was then the company’s quality control manager, expanded on that:

“[Marketing] called for a totally new, accurate rifle with new features and updated styling. We wanted a detachable magazine, increased rigidity of the action for accuracy, an improved trigger and a three-position safety. And all of this would have been fairly easy…if we also didn’t want it to remain light, slim and easy to carry.”

And thus, the Browning X-Bolt was born. It’s clear the team at Browning did a stellar job with research and development, and the company has continued that trend with each new variant.

Features of the Browning X-Bolt Speed

The X-Bolt Speed is designed to be portable, easy to maneuver, and precise on paper (and game, of course). Features of the Browning X-Bolt Speed include:

1 Contour Barrel

Fluted, sporter contour barrel for lighter overall weight and greater accuracy.

2 Composite Stock

Weather-resistant composite stock with camo pattern to blend in and handle exposure to the elements.

3 Bolt Button

Bolt unlock button and tang safety.

4 Sling

Matte blued sling swivel studs.

5 Optics

Drilled and tapped so you can add optics without a visit to the gunsmith.

Other Models and Variants

Browning X-Bolt Speed—Our Take

The X-Bolt does exactly what it was meant to do—perform with accuracy superior to that of many other bolt-actions on the market. The X-Bolt Speed, specifically, is a lighter weight variant that’s great for hunts where you’re going to be carrying your rifle for some distance. It has a camo pattern to help keep it from catching the eye of watchful game animals and it’s tough enough to handle hard use. In its 308 Win chambering with a 22-inch barrel the X-Bolt Speed provides consistent accuracy and reliability.

Shootability

Shootability of the X-Bolt Speed is fantastic. It’s balanced so there’s not excessive weight in the front or back and it’s easy to fire offhand at length (although “at length” isn’t likely to be an issue for hunters). For added stability you can add a sling and take care to use it properly for an additional contact point for support. The trigger break is clean, re-set is short, and felt recoil is manageable. 

Accuracy

In its 308 Win chambering, the rifle is accurate. The sporter contour barrel facilitates this and the X-Bolt is capable of sub-MOA groups as long as you bring the skills for it. If you’re looking for longer-range precision there are other calibers—like 6.5 Creedmoor and 300 Win Mag—that are great for long range hunting and target shooting. 

Ergonomics

The shape of the padded buttstock and length of pull combine to deliver a rifle that shoulders smoothly and comfortably. It fits snugly into my shoulder and the angle of the pistol grip provides good control. The forend narrows toward the barrel and gives you a good gripping surface for your support hand. Overall solid ergonomics.

Value

There’s a higher price point attached to the X-Bolt but it still offers a good value. Details like the smoothness of the bolt, crispness of the trigger, and fitment of parts all make it worthwhile. 

Browning X-Bolt Pros and Cons

My Preferred Ammo

Accessories to Include: 

1. Leupold Mark 4HD		Check Pricing
2. Browning Integrated Scope Mount System		Check It Out

Important Links and Manuals

Are you looking to pick up an Browning X-Bolt but need a bit more info?  Or maybe you’ve just misplaced your user’s manual?  Either way, check out the links below.

• Browning X-Bolt Manual