Browning X-Bolt 6.5 Creedmoor: A High-Quality Rifle for the Discerning Shooter
As an avid hunter and shooter, I was excited to get my hands on the Browning X-Bolt 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. With its reputation for reliability, accuracy, and durability, I was eager to see how it would perform in the field. In this review, I’ll share my personal experience with this rifle, highlighting its pros and cons, and provide an overall assessment of its performance.
First Impressions
The first thing that struck me about the Browning X-Bolt was its sleek and ergonomic design. The rifle’s overall length and weight are well-balanced, making it easy to handle for shooters of all sizes. The polymer magazine and unloaded weight of 7.9 pounds add to its portability and maneuverability in the field.
Ambidextrous Safety
The ambidextrous safety lever is a notable feature, allowing both right- and left-handed shooters to operate the rifle with ease. This feature is a must-have for any serious hunter or competitor, ensuring that the rifle can be safely handled and stored.
Action and Functionality
The X-Bolt’s action is a marvel of engineering. With a bolt lift of just 54 degrees, the rifle’s bolt is smooth and easy to operate, even in cold weather. The rifle’s three-position indicator allows for quick and easy assessment of the status of the chambered round. The Directional Ejectors system effectively removes spent cartridge cases, reducing the need for manual ejection.
Accuracy and Reliability
I was impressed with the X-Bolt’s accuracy, consistently delivering sub-MOA performance with a range bagged to 20 yards. The rifle’s Sporter Creedmoor model is designed for hunting and target shooting, making it a versatile choice for both disciplines. Repeated testing showed little to no increase in zero after prolonged shooting, indicating the rifle’s reliability is on par with its accuracy.
Feeders, Extractors, and Ejectors
The rifle’s feed system, featuring dual feeding ramps, ensures smooth and reliable feeding of the cartridge case. Feed Lip Relief is also present, allowing for reliable feeding even with poor-quality or tapered cases.
Stock and Precision
The X-Bolt’s beauty is more than skin-deep. The rifle’s precision-designed stock is well-ensconced, allowing for maximum recoil reduction and maximum accuracy. Invar barreled action rails further reduce overall weight, allowing for lower center of gravity and improved balance.
Points to Consider
Pros:
• Ambidextrous Safety: A must-have feature for both right- and left-handed shooters
• Smooth Action: A 54-degree bolt lift makes it easy to operate, even in cold weather
• Directional Ejectors: Ejects spent cases quickly and efficiently
• Sub-MOA Accuracy: Consistent performance with a range bagged to 20 yards
• Durable: A rugged, durable design for hunting and competition use
Cons:
• Weight: At 7.9 pounds, the rifle may be a bit heavy for some shooters
• Magazine: The polymer magazine is designed for reliability, but some shooters might find it a bit bulky
• Price: The high-quality features come at a cost, making it a premium product
Conclusion
The Browning X-Bolt 6.5 Creedmoor is a top-notch rifle that delivers on its promise of accuracy, reliability, and durability. While it may have some limitations, the rifle’s features and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-quality hunting or competition rifle. With its ambidextrous safety, smooth action, and sub-MOA accuracy, the X-Bolt 6.5 Creedmoor is an excellent choice for discerning shooters.