Is the Browning X-Bolt a good rifle?

I know I'm new here but I've done a lot of research on the X-bolt as it will be my next hunting rifle purchase. Just to clear up why they have 4 mounting bolts on each scope mount base; in designing the X-bolt they decided to orient the bolt so that one of the 3 locking lugs was in the 12 oclock position as opposed to the 6 oclock. This was an attempt to resolve feeding issues with the WSM cartridges. By doing this it left less metal directly in the centre of the action where normal bases would bolt to. So by using 4 holes on the sides they were able to drill deeper holes to mount the bases. So it's not better than traditional mounting sytems, it's just equivalent done a different way. Definately not a "selling point" over other rifles, especially since you will have less options with regards to bases. As for the magazine, the rotary operation serves to present every cartridge in exactly the same way so that it's a simple straight slide into the chamber every time, rather than having them offset and sliding over. Again an attempt to resolve feeding issues with the WSMs. As to why the mag is polymer and not steel, I would have to assume weight is at the top of the list along with the release function being located directly on the mag (more difficult to produce in steel) as well as it being quiter to engage and release.

Sorry for the long post, but like I said I've done a lot of research as I always do when close to $1000 is on the line. BTW prices at Sail (sports store here in Quebec) are $809 for the 270 and 300 WSMs, with occasional sales of no tax.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom