BROWNING X-BOLT MICRO
Posted May 26, 2023
HUNTER
The Browning X-Bolt Micro Hunter is a modern day classic of a rifle. Built on a scaled-down version of the popular X-Bolt action, the Micro Hunter is a lightweight, accurate bolt-action that can handle almost any task you'd want in a rifle. Its weight and overall design make it ideal for scouting, target shooting, and small game hunting.
At first glance, one is immediately drawn to the Micro Hunter’s sleek and compact look. With a 22’’- inch barrel, 13’’- inch length of pull, and a total weight coming in at just 5.6 lbs, this is one of the lightest hunting rifles available. The short barrel and adjustable length of pull make it perfect for youth shooters or for those who might be out on extended hikes while hunting.
Another thoughtful design feature of the Micro Hunter is its composite stock. Fitted with a soft rubberized butt plate, the rifle is sure to be comfortable while shooting. The checkering pattern on the grip and forearm aid in providing a secure grip while the soft rubber recoil pad helps to absorb some of the kick from each shot. While the stock isn’t adjustable, it does offer an ambidextrous design, making it comfortable for both right and left-handed hunters.
The Micro Hunter’s action is what really sets it apart. While this rifle does feature the iconic Browning X-Bolt action, the Micro Hunter does come with a few upgrades. A flush-mounted bolt head with three gas ports and a short-throw bolt handle make this action feel very precise and smooth. The zero-tolerance headspacing, adjustable trigger, and adjustable foldable hood sights all add to the accuracy of the rifle. The action itself is also equipped with an integral trigger-guard, something often overlooked on many hunting firearms.
When it comes to accuracy, the Micro Hunter holds its own against the competition. With its crisp, adjustable trigger coming in at a feathery 4 lbs, coupled with its free-floating and button-rifled barrel, it is capable of achieving very good groups out of the box. While Browning advertises their guaranteed 1-inch groups at 100 yards, many shooters have reported having sub-MOA performance out of this compact rifle.
The action is chambered in a variety of rounds in different lengths, ranging from .22-250 Remington up to .300 WSM. Coupled with its compact size, this makes the Micro Hunter incredibly versatile, sometimes allowing up to three different types of rounds to be fired from the same firearm without changing the barrel.
In order to make the purchasing of a Micro Hunter as simple and easy as possible, Browning offers three different packages. The first is the Basic package, which includes the rifle, sling, and basic scope mounts. The second is the Deluxe package, which includes the scope, bipod, and soft gun case. The third is the Structural package, which includes a laser scope and extended magazines.
Overall, the Browning X-Bolt Micro Hunter is an excellent rifle with a lot of features that make it stand out among the crowd. If you’re looking for a lightweight, accurate bolt-action rifle that can handle a variety of tasks, you can’t beat the Micro Hunter. It may not be the cheapest rifle on the market, but it is definitely worth the investment.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Great lightweight design makes it easy to carry and transport
-Well balanced and comfortable in the hand
-Wide range of barrel lengths and calibers suitable for any hunting or target shooting application
-Sleek, modern look adds a stylish touch to any hunting or shooting set up
-Cold-Hammer Forged Barrel ensures consistent accuracy
-Durable construction for longevity
-Micro-Adjustable Trigger for customized feel and accuracy
Cons:
-More expensive than some other bolt action rifles
-Heavier than some lighter design bolt action rifles
-Lack of customization options compared to some other brands
Who Should Buy
Anyone who is looking for a compact and lightweight bolt-action rifle for hunting or sport shooting should consider purchasing the Browning X-Bolt Micro. This rifle was designed with the serious hunter in mind, but it’s also ideal for recreational target shooting. It’s light enough to be carried comfortably in the field, and it’s easy to handle.
This rifle is not recommended for anyone who is looking for a larger or more powerful weapon. The Browning X-Bolt Micro is specifically designed as a lightweight and compact hunting rifle, so it’s not suitable for larger game or for long-range shooting.
Comparisons
| Browning X-Bolt Micro | Sako 85 Bavarian Carbine | Tikka T3 Lite | Blaser R93 Professional Success |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber Range | .222 to .300 Win Mag | .22 - .270 | .22 - .30 |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 Rounds | 4 Rounds | 3 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 20" | 20" | 20.3" |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs | 7 lbs | 6.2 lbs |
| Stock | Walnut | Walnut | Synthetic |
Features / Specs
-Calibers: .223 Rem., 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield, .308 Win., .300 WSM
-Action: Bolt
-Barrel Length: 20 inches
-Twist: 1-in-8 inch twist rate
-Magazine Capacity: 4+1
-Stock: Adjustable length of pull
-Sights: None, drilled and tapped for scope mounts
-Weight: 6.4 pounds
Popular Accessories
MIDAS
- Browning X-Bolt Micro Midas Rifle Scope
- Brass Magazine Follower
- Browning X-Bolt Pistol Grip Cap
- Recoil Pad
- Rifle Sling
- Talley Scope Mounts
- Browning X-Bolt Trigger
- Browning X-Bolt Side Saddle
- Browning X-Bolt Stock Spacer
- Browning X-Bolt Magazine Extension Tube
Accuracy
The BROWNING X-BOLT MICRO is highly regarded for its accuracy. It boasts a barrel that follows a “Micro Midas” design, allowing for a better fit and higher levels of precision from the shooter. This combined with its adjustable trigger gives the shooter a very forgiving experience when shooting. The gun also has an adjustable tension system that allows the shooter to fine-tune the weight of the trigger pull. All this makes for improved accuracy when taking aim with the BROWNING X-BOLT MICRO. Users have also reported improved accuracy when using the gun in low light conditions due to the crisp sights.
