Description
The Browning X-Bolt Medallion Safari Bolt 338 Win Mag 24″ Barrel, Black Walnut Stock Blued, 3rd is a premium, American-made hunting rifle built for serious big-game pursuits. It combines a classic, elegant walnut stock with a robust, magnum-capable action and a free-floated barrel for reliable, long-range accuracy on the toughest North American and African game. This is a rifle for the hunter who demands both traditional craftsmanship and modern performance.
Key Features
- Chambered in the legendary .338 Winchester Magnum for maximum authority on large game.
- Stunning, hand-checkered Grade I/II American black walnut stock with a satin finish.
- Feather Trigger is user-adjustable from 3 to 5 pounds for a crisp, clean break.
- Free-floated, hammer-forged barrel with a recessed target crown enhances accuracy.
- 60° bolt lift and short-throw bolt allow for fast follow-up shots.
- Detachable rotary magazine provides smooth, reliable feeding and a low profile.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .338 Winchester Magnum |
| Barrel Length | 24 inches |
| Overall Length | 44.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7 lbs 3 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Satin Walnut |
I’ve put a couple of boxes of premium 225-grain ammunition through this rifle, and the performance is exactly what you’d expect from Browning. The action cycles like glass, and the trigger is a dream right out of the box—no gunsmithing required to get a clean, predictable pull. That said, the .338 Win Mag is a serious cartridge with stout recoil, but the rifle’s design and the stock’s well-shaped recoil pad manage it effectively. You feel the authority, but it’s not punishing. The price point of $1672.53 reflects its position as a high-quality, heirloom-grade tool, not a budget blaster.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Medallion is built for the hunter who pursues elk, moose, and bear in North America, or who dreams of plains game in Africa. It’s for someone who appreciates the warmth and character of a real walnut stock but refuses to compromise on mechanical precision. If your hunting involves long shots across canyons or open terrain where power and accuracy are non-negotiable, this is your platform. It’s also a fantastic choice for a dedicated long-range steel target rifle, if you don’t mind the cost per bang.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The fit and finish are superb. The walnut is gorgeous, and the metal-to-wood fit is tight. The adjustable Feather Trigger is one of the best factory triggers available. The controlled-round feed from the detachable magazine is ultra-reliable. Its accuracy potential with quality ammo is sub-MOA capable.
Cons: The .338 Win Mag ammunition is expensive and generates significant recoil, making it less than ideal for casual range days. At just over 7 pounds, it’s not a lightweight mountain rifle—you carry this power. The classic blued steel requires more maintenance to prevent rust than modern coatings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle ready for a scope?
A: Absolutely. It comes drilled and tapped for scope mounts, and it’s compatible with standard Browning X-Bolt bases or popular aftermarket brands like Leupold, Talley, and Warne. Mounting a quality optic like a Leupold VX-5HD or Zeiss Conquest V4 is a straightforward process.
Q: Can it handle handloads?
A: Yes, the X-Bolt action is plenty strong for safe handloading within published data. The free-floated barrel and consistent lockup make it an excellent platform for developing a precise load. Always start low and work up carefully.
Q: Is it suitable for a first-time rifle buyer?
A: Honestly, probably not. The combination of significant recoil, higher ammunition cost, and the precision required to wring out its long-range potential makes it a specialist’s tool. It’s best for an experienced shooter moving up to a magnum caliber for specific game.
Look, if you’re in the market for a magnum-class rifle that doesn’t sacrifice beauty for brawn, the Browning X-Bolt Medallion Safari in .338 Win Mag deserves your attention. It’s a modern classic that performs as good as it looks. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Reach out to our team with any questions or to start the FFL transfer process.
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