Description
The Browning X-Bolt CMSTK 338 MAG Black is a premium, long-range hunting rifle chambered in the powerful .338 Winchester Magnum cartridge. It’s built on Browning’s proven X-Bolt platform, featuring a composite stock and a stainless steel barrel for a balance of lightweight handling and serious downrange capability. This is a purpose-built tool for taking on the continent’s largest game at extended distances.
I’ve put a few boxes of .338 Win Mag through this platform, and here’s what stands out. The X-Bolt action is famously smooth, with a 60-degree bolt lift that makes for quick follow-up shots—a nice feature when you’re dealing with recoil. The composite stock is rigid and weather-resistant, and the Inflex Technology recoil pad does a solid job of taming that substantial .338 push. The adjustable Feather Trigger is a genuine highlight, breaking cleanly right out of the box with no gunsmithing required.
Key Features
- Chambered in .338 Winchester Magnum for maximum authority on large game.
- Composite stock (CMSTK) with Inflex recoil pad for durability and shootability.
- Stainless steel barrel and action for corrosion resistance.
- X-Bolt’s signature 60-degree bolt lift for fast cycling.
- Adjustable Feather Trigger system (3-5 lbs).
- Top-tang safety and bolt unlock button for intuitive operation.
Specifications & Details
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .338 Winchester Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 26 inches |
| Overall Length | 46.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7 lbs 3 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 rounds (Detachable box magazine) |
| Finish | Matte Black / Stainless |
Look, at just over 7 pounds, this rifle is relatively light for a .338, which is a double-edged sword you need to understand. The weight helps on long stalks, but you’ll feel the recoil more than you would in a heavier target model. That said, the stock design and pad manage it well. The 26-inch barrel gives that heavy bullet all the velocity it needs, and the detachable magazine is a practical touch in the field. For the price of $825.87, you’re getting Browning’s quality control and a rifle that’s ready for serious work without needing a second mortgage.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the hunter who pursues elk, moose, or bear in open country where shots can stretch out. It’s for someone who respects the need for a definitive stopping cartridge and wants a reliable, accurate platform from a trusted name. It’s not a plinker—ammo cost and recoil see to that—but a specialized instrument for a specific job. It’s also a great fit for shooters who appreciate a crisp, user-adjustable trigger straight from the factory.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The .338 Win Mag is arguably the most versatile true magnum for North American game. The X-Bolt action is buttery smooth and reliable. The composite stock shrugs off moisture and rough handling. The trigger is excellent. You get Browning’s reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy.
Cons: Recoil is stout, no way around it. Ammunition is expensive and can be less common on store shelves. The lighter weight amplifies felt recoil compared to heavier bench rifles. It’s a specialized tool, not a general-purpose rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle suitable for elk hunting in the Rockies?
A: Absolutely. The .338 Winchester Magnum is considered by many to be the gold standard for elk, especially in windy, mountainous terrain where its heavy, high-ballistic-coefficient bullets excel. The rifle’s weight is manageable for hiking, and its power is more than sufficient for ethical shots at longer ranges.
Q: What optics mount does it use?
A: The Browning X-Bolt CMSTK comes drilled and tapped for a standard scope base. It uses a common Remington 700-style footprint for the rear screws, but the front screw spacing is specific to Browning. I’d recommend a dedicated Browning X-Bolt base from brands like Leupold, Talley, or Warne for a perfect, drop-in ready fit.
Q: Can it handle hand-loaded ammunition?
A: Yes, like most modern bolt-actions from major manufacturers, the X-Bolt is built to SAAMI specifications and is perfectly safe for use with responsibly developed handloads. The free-floated barrel and consistent lock-up often allow handloaders to find incredibly accurate loads. Always start low and work up carefully, especially with a magnum cartridge.
If you’re after a no-nonsense, long-range hunting rifle with the power to cleanly take any game on this continent, the Browning X-Bolt CMSTK in .338 Win Mag deserves a hard look. It’s a proven system from a legendary company. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, where an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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