rem 700 vs browing x bolt

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okanagan199

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hey guys! did a quick search and couldn't find this comparison so I figured I'd ask here. I'm in the beginning stages of building a custom rig. I want a lightweight, backpacking rifle in 300 win mag. I am debating what action to put on this build as I have used a browning rifle all my life. I am used to the tang safety and have a 7mm in a browning bbr right now, it is just a tank to haul around. I have held the new x-bolts and they are very similar to the old bbr I have as far as feel goes. I would probably go with a 700 if I wasn't so used to the browning, but my rifle fits me so well and I have used it all my life that it is a bit hard to want something new. I know the 700's are what everyone is building custom rifles on right now. I see big advantages to going this route as aftermarket parts are readily available.

is the 700 action a superior action than the x-bolt? I plan on decking the rifle out, aftermarket trigger, McMillan stock, high end scope, match barrel etc. and want the best action for the job. anyone have any insight? thanks
 
If you want to "customize" then the xbolt isn't gonna be your thing. That being said, the xbolt doesn't really need customizing. I've got both, an x-bolt hunter in. 270 that is bone stock. I also have a model 700 mountain SS. This one has a tuned trigger and b+c stock. As far as performance goes, you'd be hard pressed to tell the difference, and the bone stock browning only weighs 5oz more. Although I find my browning more comfortable, I carry the 700 mostly these days just because it's more resistant to the west coast weather and abuse.

If you're going into this wanting something you can modify then the 700 wins hands down.

If you just want a performer that fits and feels good, it's a toss up.

Cheers,
Brad
 
700 all the way! No decent trigger available for the X-Bolt.

IMHO, the last really good rifle built under the Browning banner was the BBR.
A bit heavy, but a well-built, solid performer.

A-bolts leave me absolutely cold, and the X-Bolt, while a bit better, is still a bit lacking for me.

Regards, Dave.
 
I guess i'll just have to get some trigger time behind the x-bolt as my dad bought one last year. I would like the trigger to be around 2-2.25 pounds but it is a hunting rig, so I'm sure I can deal with it a little heavier.
 
And attempting to strip a bolt action Browning's bolt for cleaning goes beyond intimidating. A Remington 700 is the correct answer for the custom rifle enthusiast, there are lots of aftermarket goodies to choose from, and a bolt that's simple and straight forward to strip, clean, and reassemble.
 
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