When it comes to trophy hunting, you need ultimate long-range accuracy with a rifle capable of bringing down the biggest game. Of my favorite rifles, the Browning X-Bolt Max Long Range is the best long-range rifle for the job.

Everything about the X-Bolt is made and machined with a purpose. Simple inclusions, like the spacers provided for the butt of the rifle, are great additions from Browning to make sure this rifle fits me. The length of pull is critical to comfort and follow-up accuracy. This customization opportunity on the X-bolt is perfect and appreciated.

A standout feature of the Browning X-Bolt Max Long Range is the unique stock. The Composite Max stock is aesthetically distinctive with great functionality.  An adjustable comb uses a dial for easy height adjustment. I can change the height for my line of sight differences through the scope from standing to prone positioning. I can also use the height markings to record my settings. Eliminating the guesswork and keeping the height consistent from day to day improves my overall accuracy on the regular.

The flat bottom to the stock allows for level travel through recoil when I’m prone and trying to keep my target in the scope.

Moving forward along the rifle, Browning did a great job integrating the vertical pistol grip. The reach to the trigger is comfortable, and the button safety is within range of the thumb rest nearby. 

For the operation of this powerful rifle, the extended bolt handle is well shaped and smart in its mechanics. I really like the short bolt throw. It makes cycling very quick.  I also like that the bolt handle doesn’t travel into the turrets on my optics or pinch or catch my fingers between the handle and scope.   

Browning doesn’t provide rings or mounts for optics. What they do provide is the X-Lock Mounting system. I can secure the scope base to my receiver and attach any of my meatiest and most powerful optics. The X-Bolt Max also comes with swivel studs on the forend for bipod or sling use.

The Browning X-Bolt Max Long Range has a fluted barrel. This is another aesthetic addition that is more than good-looking. Made to withstand the large-caliber rounds made for big game. The X-Bolt Max’s added rigidity of the fluting keeps accuracy consistent as well as improves the barrel cooling. I also like that Browning tops the barrel with the threaded muzzle brake, and gave me a thread protector if I didn’t want to use the brake. Since I like the reduction in recoil the muzzle brake provides, it’s stayed intact as Browning intended.

All in all, the Browning X-Bolt Max Long Range Rifle is one of my favorite bolt action rifles. Most of my time with it has been hog hunting, and it’s definitely been worth every penny of the $1,400 price tag. Capable and easy to use, the Browning X-Bolt Max Long Range is the ultimate trophy hunting rifle in my collection.

Richard Douglas writes on firearms, defense, and security issues. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field, and a columnist at The National Interest, 1945, Daily Caller, and other publications.

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