Help me choose: Browning X-bolt vs AB3

[steadyrock]

[plumbum]

I think the Sportsman’s Black Friday deal on the AB3 was $569 for the rifle only - with rings and a Leupold, I’d say that is a great deal! Considering that is half the cost of the X-Bolt, I’d go for it and spend the remainder on a secure case, good sling and some ammo

[sigstroker]

What's an AB3?

[1859sharps]

What's an AB3?

AB3 = Assembly Bill 3, it requires you buy a Browning rifle

https://www.rifleshootermag.com/editorial/review-browning-ab3-hunter/83745

[Bull Elk]

You’re comparing apples to oranges. The AB3 isn’t in the same class as the xbolt or the Tikka. If you want a great rifle that will last a lifetime go with the XBolt since you already said that you can afford it. If not, then buy the Tikka. It’s a great mid-range rifle. But if you just want a decent entry level rifle that’s dripping with quality, buy a Weatherby Vanguard S2 for about the same price as the AB3.....the Weatherby is a much better rifle!

I own two XBolts, a T3X and a Weatherby Vanguard. All four are great rifles for a fair price!

[steadyrock]

This is helpful, thanks. Which X-bolts do you own?


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[bergmen]

I have an X-Bolt Medallion in .308 Winchester. These are made by Miroku and it is exceptional in quality (wood grain, wood to metal fit, ultra smooth action, extremely accurate, etc.).

I like the fact that the bolt can be opened while on safe. The A-Bolt required moving the safety off before the bolt could be opened (I have an A-Bolt also).

The X-Bolt has a plastic rotary magazine that appears cheap but works flawlessly. The rifle also has a feature that holds the rounds in the magazine below the surface of the underside of the bolt until the bolt is fully retracted. Extremely smooth.

Dan

[Catch]

650 sounds right for a blued plastic stock xbolt. I have a comp stalker in 308, its been fantastic, 130 and 150 ttsx shoot lights out.

[newbutold]

I don't own an X but my .270 and 7mm A-bolts are smooth and very good shooters.

[Bull Elk]

Xbolts

This is helpful, thanks. Which X-bolts do you own?


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Both are Xbolt Hunter models in 30.06 (one wood and the other synthetic). Extremely well made and very accurate.

But if you are on a budget, consider the Weatherby over the AB3. Same price range.

[Bull Elk]

I don't own an X but my .270 and 7mm A-bolts are smooth and very good shooters.

I would love to pick up an Abolt in either .270, 30.06, .243 or 25.06. Can't find them anywhere.

[Vigilante]

If you can afford either, then I suggest you buy the Xbolt. I have two of them, and they're great guns. Lightweight and accurate. What more could you want in a hunting rifle?

[XVIga_Rob]

[steadyrock]