Description
The Browning BAR MK3 300 WSM 23″ Barrel, Synthetic Mossy Oak B, 3rd is a gas-operated, semi-automatic hunting rifle chambered in the potent 300 Winchester Short Magnum. It features a 23-inch chrome-lined barrel, a synthetic stock in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo, and a reliable box magazine system, offering fast follow-up shots for big game hunters at a price point of $1440.07.
Key Features
- Chambered in the flat-shooting 300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) cartridge.
- 23-inch chrome-lined, hammer-forged barrel for durability and accuracy.
- Gas-operated semi-automatic action reduces felt recoil for faster target reacquisition.
- Lightweight synthetic stock with Mossy Oak Break-Up Country finish for all-weather resilience.
- Detachable box magazine for reliable feeding and easier unloading.
- Adjustable power gas system allows tuning for different ammunition loads.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 300 Winchester Short Magnum (300 WSM) |
| Barrel Length | 23 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 44.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7 lbs 8 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 rounds |
| Stock Material | Synthetic with Mossy Oak Break-Up Country |
Here’s the thing—when you compare this semi-auto to a premium bolt-action in the same caliber, the value proposition becomes clear. You’re getting Browning’s renowned reliability and a system that soaks up recoil, all for a price that often undercuts custom bolt guns. The 23-inch barrel is a sweet spot for the 300 WSM, balancing velocity and maneuverability in a blind or thick timber. At just over seven and a half pounds, it’s light enough for long stalks without punishing your shoulder on the range. The gas system is a key feature; it’s adjustable, meaning you can run everything from lighter practice loads to full-power hunting ammunition reliably—no gunsmithing required to make the switch. This rifle is drop-in ready for optics, featuring a drilled and tapped receiver compatible with standard Browning BAR scope mount bases and popular rings from brands like Leupold and Warne.
Who This Rifle Is For
This BAR MK3 is built for the serious hunter who chases elk, moose, or large bear in open country where a fast second or third shot might be the difference between a filled tag and a long story. It’s for the shooter who appreciates the ballistic advantages of a short magnum but wants the reduced perceived recoil and quick cycling of a semi-auto. If you’re a Missouri hunter heading out west or pursuing whitetail in open agricultural fields, this rifle delivers power without the punishing kick of a standard magnum bolt-action. Budget-conscious hunters looking for a durable, weatherproof rifle that performs straight from the box will find the price-to-performance ratio hard to beat.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The semi-automatic action significantly reduces felt recoil, making the powerful 300 WSM more shootable for extended range sessions. The synthetic Mossy Oak stock is virtually impervious to weather and rough handling. The adjustable gas system adds versatility for ammunition. You get the Browning name and reliability at a price that competes with many mid-tier bolt actions.
Cons: Semi-autos are typically less inherently accurate than precision bolt-action rifles, though the BAR is plenty accurate for ethical hunting ranges. The 300 WSM ammunition is more expensive and less common than standards like .308 Winchester. The rifle’s overall length, just shy of 45 inches, can be slightly cumbersome in very dense brush compared to a compact carbine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the recoil compare to a bolt-action in 300 WSM?
A: The gas-operated action of the BAR MK3 uses some of the firing energy to cycle the bolt, which directs force back into the system rather than entirely into your shoulder. Most shooters find it has 20-30% less perceived recoil, making practice and follow-up shots much more comfortable.
Q: Is the magazine easy to find and are there higher capacity options?
A: The detachable box magazine is specific to the BAR MK3 in 300 WSM. Factory magazines are readily available from Browning and most major retailers. Aftermarket options exist, but for hunting, the standard 3-round capacity is typically sufficient and keeps the profile sleek.
Q: Can I use standard .300 Winchester Magnum ammunition in this rifle?
A: Absolutely not. The 300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) is a different, shorter cartridge. Using standard .300 Win Mag ammo in a 300 WSM chamber is dangerous and will cause a catastrophic failure. Always use only ammunition clearly marked as 300 WSM.
For hunters seeking a capable, fast-handling magnum rifle that won’t punish the shooter or the wallet, the Browning BAR MK3 in 300 WSM presents a compelling argument. It blends proven performance with practical features for demanding environments. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, where FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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