Description
Browning built the X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special for the kind of hunting where your shot might come at 80 yards or 500, and you need a rifle that handles both without drama. Chambered in 7mm PRC, it sends heavy, high-BC bullets downrange with a fast 1:8 twist barrel, which is exactly what this cartridge was designed around. The 24 inch heavy sporter contour barrel wears a non-reflective matte stainless finish that shrugs off weather and won't flash sunlight at a bedded buck. It's free floated, the action is bedded, and the muzzle comes threaded 5/8-24 so adding a suppressor or brake is as simple as spinning off the included thread protector.
What Makes the X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special Different
The second-generation X-Bolt action is where this rifle really shines. Browning added extra bolt guidance surface to the receiver, so the spiral fluted bolt runs smooth and fast even when you're working it in a hurry with cold hands. The extended handle and ergonomic knob give you plenty to grab. The DLX trigger is a three-lever design with no creep, no take-up, and no overtravel, preset at a clean 3.5 pounds and adjustable down to 3. Top it all off with a drilled and tapped receiver that works with Browning's X-Lock mounting system, which uses four screws per base instead of two for a rock-solid optic setup.
Built for Long Days in Rough Country
The black composite stock features an adjustable comb, so you can dial your cheek weld to line up perfectly behind whatever scope you mount. That matters more than most people realize when you're stretching the 7mm PRC out past 400 yards. An Inflex recoil pad soaks up a good chunk of the push, and the top-tang safety with bolt unlock button lets you check the chamber safely with the safety still engaged. Feeding comes from a detachable rotary magazine holding three rounds, with one more in the chamber. If your hunts take you across canyons, sage flats, or above the timberline, this one deserves a hard look.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Browning
- Model: X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special
- Manufacturer Part Number: 036118298
- UPC: 023614869450
- Action: Bolt Action
- Caliber: 7mm PRC
- Barrel Length: 24"
- Barrel: Heavy sporter contour, matte stainless, free floated
- Twist Rate: 1:8"
- Muzzle Threading: 5/8"-24 with thread protector
- Capacity: 3 + 1
- Stock: Black composite with adjustable comb
- Trigger: DLX three-lever, preset 3.5 lbs, adjustable to 3.0 lbs
- Recoil Pad: Inflex
- Safety: Top-tang with bolt unlock button
- Hand: Right
What’s Included
- Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special rifle
- One 3-round detachable magazine
- Muzzle thread protector
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special suppressor ready?
Yes. The 24 inch barrel comes threaded in the common 5/8-24 pattern, so most centerfire rifle suppressors and aftermarket brakes will spin right on. A thread protector is included to keep the threads clean when you're running the muzzle bare.
Does this rifle come with a scope or bases?
No optic or mounting hardware is included. The receiver is drilled and tapped and works with Browning's X-Lock scope mounting system, which secures each base with four screws instead of the usual two for extra holding strength. Standard X-Bolt pattern bases and rails are widely available.
What is the trigger like on the X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter Special?
It uses Browning's DLX trigger, a three-lever design with essentially no creep, take-up, or overtravel. It comes from the factory set at 3.5 pounds and can be adjusted down to 3 pounds. It breaks clean enough that most hunters leave it right where it is.
Is 7mm PRC a good choice for elk and mule deer?
It's one of the best modern options for western big game. The cartridge was built around long, high-BC bullets, and this rifle's 1:8 twist stabilizes them properly, giving you flat trajectories and strong retained energy well past 400 yards. Recoil is stout but manageable, and the Inflex pad and adjustable comb help you stay comfortable behind it.





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