It’s the most wonderful time of the year…
Ladies and gentleman, hunting season is nearly upon us. Here in Wisconsin, early teal and goose season has already kicked off, archery season is right around the corner and a number of other seasons will be starting in the coming weeks and months. Over the next few weeks, deer hunters across the country will be readying their gear and assembling the various tools that will give them the edge over their targets.
And when it comes to rifle hunting, the pinnacle of consistency, dependability, and performance has been Browning. Tracing its roots back to the 1800s, Browning has been a mainstay in the firearms industry for over a century, and continues to build upon that legacy here in 2024 with the Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed Rifle.
The Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed Rifle is a state-of-the-art rifle that stands out for its innovation, precision engineering, and a range of proprietary technologies that enhance its performance.
Design and Build
The X-Bolt 2 Speed Rifle features an advanced composite stock constructed from a lightweight yet highly durable synthetic material and a new, thicker Inflex recoil pad. Utilizing the Vari-Tech technology, the stock features 3 adjustment positions so you can perfectly dial it in, as well as Browning’s OVIX camouflage for concealment in a variety of terrain and environments.
The rifle comes with a fluted, sporter contour barrel, which not only reduces the overall weight of the firearm but also improves heat dissipation during extended shooting sessions. The barrel is free-floated using Browning’s Glass Bedded System, which helps to prevent any contact between the barrel and the stock, allowing for consistent barrel harmonics and improved accuracy. A Cerakote Smoked Bronze finish is applied to the redesigned action and barrel for metal protection.
Action and Trigger
Bolt Action: The X-Bolt 2 Speed features a 60-degree bolt lift, which is a significant improvement over the traditional 90-degree lift found in many bolt-action rifles. This design reduces the distance the bolt handle travels, allowing for faster follow-up shots and providing ample scope clearance. A new spiral-fluted bolt with ergonomic new bolt knob shape also includes Browning’s Bolt Unlock Button, a proprietary feature that allows the shooter to unload the firearm while the safety is engaged, enhancing safety during operation.
Trigger System: The DLX Trigger is a three-lever design that offers zero creep, zero take-up, and zero overtravel performance and comes preset from the factory at 3.5 pounds. (Adjustable down to 3.0 pounds.)
Accuracy and Performance
Scope Mounting: The X-Bolt 2 Speed uses Browning’s unique X-Lock Scope Mounting System, which employs four screws per base (instead of the usual two) to ensure a more secure attachment of the scope bases. This design minimizes the chances of scope movement under recoil, thereby maintaining zero and improving long-range accuracy. The integrated base and ring design also helps to reduce weight and streamline the rifle’s profile.
Caliber Options
The X-Bolt 2 Speed is offered in a wide range of calibers, including but not limited to:
.243 Winchester
.270 Winchester
6.5 Creedmoor
.308 Winchester
.30-06 Springfield
.300 Winchester Magnum
These options make the X-Bolt 2 Speed suitable for hunting anything from small game and varmints to large game. The rifle is available in different barrel lengths, typically ranging from 22 to 26 inches, depending on the caliber, allowing shooters to choose the best configuration for their intended use.
X-Bolt 2 Speed Features
- New X-Bolt 2 styling
- New composite Vari-Tech stock with adjustable length of pull, adjustable comb, interchangeable sporter and vertical grips, and black overmolded gripping surfaces
- Smoked Bronze Cerakote™ finish protects better than traditional bluing or bare stainless steel
- Fluted, sporter contour barrel for the ideal blend of accuracy and weight savings
- New spiral-fluted bolt with ergonomic new bolt knob shape
- Radial-style muzzle brake
- New 1-1/4″ Inflex Recoil Pad
- Versatile Browning OVIX Camouflage
The Browning X-Bolt Speed 2 is an embodiment of precision engineering, designed for hunters and marksmen who demand performance, reliability, and accuracy in the field. Building on the success of the original X-Bolt series, the Speed 2 introduces enhancements that make it a standout in the competitive world of bolt-action rifles. It offers a blend of accuracy, durability, and user-friendly features that make it an excellent choice for serious hunters and shooters.
Whether you are upgrading from an older model or investing in your first high-quality rifle, the Speed 2 stands out as a top-tier option in the bolt-action market.
