Gun Of The Week: Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR

Browning’s X-Bolt has been an industry mainstay since its introduction in 2008, but in 2024, the company decided to update several elements of this proven design. The X-Bolt 2 is now available in 37 different variants, all configured to meet different needs within the firearm community. Most are oriented toward hunting and field use, but Browning has several long-range and target models as well. In this case, we’re on the range with one of the field models, and a closer look at its feature set displays Browning’s thoughtful approach to modern hunting. Watch our video above to see this latest X-Bolt rifle in use on the range.

To start with, the X-Bolt 2 receiver design has some practical updates that facilitate better, safer hunting experiences. Browning redesigned its receiver internally to ensure that the bolt glides smoothly during operation, reducing the chances of bolt-binding that can stop a fast reload for that critical follow-up shot. There’s a two-position, top-tang safety that sits within easy reach of a shooter’s thumb, and when activated, it blocks the trigger sear and firing pin while also locking the bolt. To facilitate safe unloading, Browning incorporated a bolt-unlock button at the root of the bolt handle, and the bolt knob itself has been redesigned for a more comfortable feel. Like the original X-Bolt, this is still a three-lug bolt with a short, 60-degree lift that easily clears a mounted optic.

On this Speed SPR model, Browning includes a composite Vari-Tech stock that’s designed to ensure a perfect fit, thanks to its adjustable length of pull and comb height. The stock also incorporates a removable grip insert, and the company supplies sporter and vertical grips to accommodate shooter preferences. Rubberized grip surfaces on these inserts, as well as on the bottom of the forearm, offer solid purchase, even in damp field conditions.

When it comes to the free-floated barrel, Browning notably accommodates a growing trend in modern hunting: suppressor usage. The “SPR” in this gun’s name indicates that it facilitates suppressor use, and to that end, the muzzle end of the barrel swells in diameter to accommodate the 5/8x24 TPI threading found there. From the factory, Browning includes a radial muzzle brake on the gun, but the thread pitch fits most suppressors and mounts on the market. The SPR model’s barrel has also been shortened by four inches compared to the company’s other hunting models to make up for the additional length of a mounted silencer.

Despite this feature, during our range day, we were glad to have that factory radial brake, as this .300 Win. Mag.-chambered rifle weighs just 7 lbs., unloaded, and that brake was incredibly helpful in keeping the beating off our shoulders. Our range-day experience also highlighted a few other great upgrades found in Browning’s latest X-Bolt 2 design. The adjustable DLX trigger was set for a crisp 3.5-lb. break that had zero overtravel or takeup, and it was wonderfully clean. We also liked Browning’s new, patented rotary magazine design, which was easy to load and fed round without issue. In this chambering, the flush-fit magazine had a capacity of three rounds. For today’s discerning hunter seeking a field-ready rifle that’s loaded with modern features, the X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR is a great option.

Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed SPR Specifications
Action Type: bolt-action, centerfire rifle
Chambering: .300 Win. Mag.
Barrel: 22" steel; threaded 5/8x24 TPI; Smoked Bronze Cerakote finish
Receiver: steel; Smoked Bronze Cerakote finish
Magazine: three-round detachable box
Sights: none; drill-and-tapped receiver
Stock: composite modular; Ovix camouflage
Trigger: Browning DLX adjustable; 3-lb., 10-oz. pull
Overall Length: 42.75" 
Weight: 7 lbs.
MSRP: $1,640