Description
The Browning BAR ShortTrac .300 WSM 23″, Mossy Oak Break Up Infinity, 3+1rd is a modern, gas-operated semi-automatic hunting rifle designed for power and speed in the field. It combines the reliable, fast-follow-up capability of the classic BAR action with the flat-shooting, hard-hitting .300 Winchester Short Magnum cartridge, all wrapped in a durable, effective Mossy Oak Break Up Infinity camo finish. I’ve put a few boxes of the stout .300 WSM through this platform, and it handles the recoil impressively, making it a serious tool for big game at extended ranges.
Key Features
- Gas-operated semi-automatic action for reduced felt recoil and fast follow-up shots.
- Chambered in the potent .300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) for exceptional downrange energy.
- 23-inch chrome-lined barrel with a recessed muzzle crown for accuracy and durability.
- Full-coverage Mossy Oak Break Up Infinity camo finish on metal, stock, and forend.
- Steel receiver with a low-profile, snag-free design and a hinged floorplate for easy unloading.
- Inflex Technology recoil pad and ergonomic stock design to help manage the cartridge’s punch.
Specs & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .300 Winchester Short Magnum (.300 WSM) |
| Barrel Length | 23 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7 lbs 4 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 rounds |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Break Up Infinity |
Here’s the thing—the .300 WSM is no joke. It delivers ballistics very close to the legendary .300 Win Mag but from a shorter, more efficient case that allows for a lighter, better-balanced rifle. This specific model’s 23-inch barrel is a sweet spot, giving you plenty of velocity without the unwieldy length of some magnum rifles. The gas system really does its job, taming what would be a punishing recoil in a bolt-action into a manageable, quick-shoving impulse. At a weight just over seven pounds, it carries like a dream through thick timber, but that light weight means you’ll definitely feel the cartridge’s power—good technique is a must.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is a hunter’s rifle, built for one purpose: taking large game confidently at medium to long distances. It’s ideal for the Missouri hunter pursuing whitetail in open ag fields or the western hunter after elk, mule deer, or bear in mountainous terrain. If you value the potential for a rapid second shot and appreciate a system that soaks up recoil, the ShortTrac makes a compelling case over a bolt gun. It’s not a plinker; it’s a purpose-driven tool for serious hunting seasons.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The semi-auto action significantly softens the stout .300 WSM recoil, making it more shootable for extended range sessions. The camo finish is tough and highly effective in varied wooded environments. The balance and handling are excellent for a magnum-caliber rifle. It’s drop-in ready—no gunsmithing required to get it field-ready, just mount a scope and zero it.
Cons: Ammunition cost for the .300 WSM is higher than for standard cartridges like .308 Winchester. The 3+1 capacity is standard but less than some modern detachable-magazine rifles. The light weight, while great for carrying, amplifies perceived recoil compared to heavier target models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .300 WSM overkill for Missouri whitetail?
A: For typical wooded shots under 150 yards, yes, it’s more than you need. But if you hunt agricultural areas, river bottoms, or cleared power lines where 300-yard+ shots are possible, the .300 WSM’s flat trajectory and retained energy are major advantages. It’s also an excellent choice for elk or moose if you travel west.
Q: What scope mounts work with this rifle?
A: The ShortTrac uses a standard scope mounting system. It’s compatible with Browning’s own scope mounts, as well as common aftermarket bases from brands like Leupold, Warne, and Talley. I’d recommend a sturdy set of steel bases and rings to handle the cartridge’s recoil impulse.
Q: How does it compare to a bolt-action in the same caliber?
A: The primary trade-off is speed versus ultimate precision. A high-quality bolt-action might have a slight edge in pure accuracy potential from a benchrest. However, the BAR’s semi-auto action offers dramatically faster follow-up shots and reduced felt recoil, which can be the difference in a dynamic hunting situation. For most hunting ranges, its accuracy is more than sufficient.
Look, if you’re in the market for a fast-handling, hard-hitting semi-auto that can reach out and touch game at distance, the Browning BAR ShortTrac in .300 WSM deserves your attention. It’s a modern evolution of a proven platform, priced at $1205.26. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, where it ships to Missouri and compliant US states after the required FFL transfer for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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