Description
Browning took a platform that already had a loyal following and gave it a real second-generation overhaul with the X-Bolt 2. The receiver adds extra bolt guidance surface so cycling feels smooth and straight, the spiral-fluted bolt trims weight and wears a reshaped handle and knob, and the short 60 degree bolt lift keeps your hand clear of even oversized scopes. This version carries a Tungsten Cerakote treatment on the bolt and trigger guard for added protection against weather and wear, set against a non-reflective matte blued sporter contour barrel that keeps the whole package light for long carries.
A Vari-Tech Stock That Fits Like It Was Made for You
The big story on the Hunter Composite is the Vari-Tech stock. Comb height adjusts to line your eye up with the optic, length of pull changes internally with spacers so there is nothing loose or rattling, and the grip itself swaps between the installed sporter module and an included vertical module. Rubber overmolded grip panels give you traction with cold or wet hands, and the thick 1.25 inch Inflex recoil pad takes the edge off what little push a .243 produces. Getting a factory rifle to genuinely fit a smaller framed hunter or a tall shooter usually means gunsmith work. Here it takes a few minutes and basic tools.
Why the .243 Win X-Bolt 2 Earns a Spot in the Safe
The .243 Winchester remains one of the most practical do-it-all cartridges going, light enough on the shoulder for new hunters and plenty capable on whitetail, antelope, and coyotes. The 22 inch barrel is free floated over a bedded action for consistent accuracy, and the M13x0.75 threaded muzzle ships with a radial brake and thread protector, with the option to add Browning's Recoil Hawg if you want the recoil down to almost nothing.
Trigger and Controls Done Right
The DLX trigger uses a three-lever design with no creep, no take-up, and no overtravel, preset at 3.5 pounds and adjustable down to 3. A top-tang safety, bolt unlock button, and the four-screw X-Lock scope mounting system round out a rifle that is ready for glass and a season of work. It feeds from a detachable rotary magazine holding four rounds.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer Part Number: 036093211
- UPC: 023614866527
- Caliber: .243 Winchester
- Action: Bolt Action, 60 Degree Bolt Lift
- Barrel Length: 22", Sporter Contour, Free Floated
- Muzzle Threads: M13x0.75 with Radial Muzzle Brake
- Capacity: 4+1, Detachable Rotary Magazine
- Stock: Black Vari-Tech Composite, Adjustable Comb and LOP
- Trigger: DLX, Preset 3.5 lb, Adjustable to 3 lb
- Finish: Tungsten Cerakote Bolt and Trigger Guard, Matte Blued Barrel
- Safety: Top-Tang with Bolt Unlock Button
- Recoil Pad: Inflex, 1.25" Thick
- Sights: None, Drilled and Tapped for X-Lock Scope Mounts
- Bolt: Spiral Fluted with Ergonomic Knob
What’s Included
- Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite rifle
- One 4-round detachable rotary magazine
- Radial muzzle brake
- Thread protector cap
- Vertical grip module (sporter grip installed)
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Browning X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite come with sights or a scope?
No, it ships without iron sights or an optic. The receiver is set up for Browning's X-Lock scope mounting system, which uses four screws per base instead of the usual two for a very secure hold. You will need to pick up X-Lock bases or an integrated mount separately before heading to the range.
How adjustable is the Vari-Tech stock on this rifle?
You get three points of adjustment. The comb raises or lowers to line your eye up with your scope, length of pull is changed with internal spacers for a solid rattle-free fit, and the grip module swaps between the installed sporter grip and the included vertical grip. It is one of the more adaptable factory stocks in this class of hunting rifle.
Is .243 Winchester a good choice for a first deer rifle?
It is one of the classic picks for that job. Recoil is mild enough for younger and smaller framed hunters, yet the cartridge has plenty of reach and energy for whitetail, antelope, and predators. Combined with the adjustable stock and the included muzzle brake, this setup is about as comfortable as a centerfire deer rifle gets.
Can I swap the muzzle brake on the X-Bolt 2 Hunter Composite for a suppressor or different brake?
The muzzle is threaded M13x0.75, and the rifle comes with both the radial brake and a thread protector so you can run it clean if you prefer. Browning also offers the Recoil Hawg brake as an upgrade for even more recoil reduction. Just note the metric thread pitch when shopping for muzzle devices, since many accessories are cut for 1/2×28 and will need an adapter.




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