Description
I was chasing coyotes on a friend’s farm outside Jefferson City, the wind whipping across the open fields. My old rifle felt like an anchor in the gusts, and I missed a clean shot because of it. That’s when I started looking for a rifle that could handle Missouri’s variable conditions—something tough, light, and inherently accurate. The Browning X-Bolt Stainless Stalker Bolt 22-250Rem 22″ Barrel, Black Synthetic Blued, 4rd checked every box. I’ve since put several hundred rounds of Federal Premium through mine, and it’s become my go-to for varmint control and long-range target work.
So, what is it? The Browning X-Bolt Stainless Stalker in .22-250 Rem is a purpose-built, weather-resistant bolt-action rifle. It features a stainless steel barrel and action paired with a black synthetic stock, offering a no-fuss, durable platform for hunters and shooters who demand reliability. With its 22-inch barrel and 4-round detachable box magazine, it’s designed for flat-shooting performance and quick handling in the field. At $1024.50, it sits in a sweet spot between premium custom rigs and basic factory offerings.
Let’s talk about what makes this rifle work. The heart of the system is the X-Bolt’s short 60-degree bolt throw. It’s fast. You can work the action and get back on target without breaking your cheek weld, which is a huge advantage when you’re watching a prairie dog town through the scope. The free-floated, sporter-contour barrel is cold hammer-forged stainless steel. That means consistent accuracy and a finish that laughs at Missouri humidity. I’ve left this rifle in a damp case overnight after a rainy hunt—no drama, no rust, just a quick wipe-down.
The synthetic stock is more than just black plastic. It’s stiff and has an ergonomic palm swell that just fits out of the box. The Inflex Technology recoil pad does a great job managing the .22-250’s modest snap, and the comb height is perfect for pairing with standard scope rings. The trigger is the excellent Feather Trigger system, user-adjustable down to about 3 pounds. Mine broke clean at 3.5 lbs right from the factory, with zero creep. Here’s the thing—a good trigger is the cheapest accuracy upgrade you can get, and Browning includes one standard.
Compatibility is straightforward. The rifle uses Browning’s proprietary detachable box magazines, which are rock-solid. For optics, I mounted a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 in a set of Leupold PRW rings, and it was a seamless fit on the drilled and tapped receiver. The 22-inch barrel keeps the overall length manageable, right around 42.5 inches, and the whole package weighs in at a very carry-friendly 6 lbs 10 oz. That light weight, combined with the .22-250’s minimal recoil, makes for a rifle you can shoot all day at the range without fatigue.
| Caliber | .22-250 Remington |
| Barrel | 22″ Stainless Steel, Sporter Contour |
| Overall Length | 42.5″ |
| Weight | 6 lbs 10 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Trigger | Feather Trigger, Adjustable |
Pros: Exceptional out-of-the-box accuracy. The stainless/synthetic build is genuinely weatherproof and low-maintenance. The short bolt throw and excellent trigger enhance practical shooting speed. It’s a lightweight hunting tool that doesn’t feel cheap.
Cons: The magazine is proprietary, so spares are an added cost. The synthetic stock, while durable, lacks the aesthetic appeal of walnut. The .22-250 Remington caliber, while fantastic for varmints, isn’t the best choice for larger game.
Who is this rifle for? It’s for the Missouri hunter who spends long days in a foxhole or field edge waiting on coyotes. It’s for the landowner who needs a reliable tool for predator and prairie dog control. It’s also a fantastic entry into long-range target shooting, given the .22-250’s ballistic performance. If you need one rifle to handle windy plains, damp woods, and everything in between without babying it, this is a compelling candidate. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .22-250 Remington a good choice for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: I wouldn’t recommend it. While legal for deer in Missouri with proper bullet selection, the .22-250 is a varmint cartridge. It lacks the consistent bullet weight and energy for ethical deer hunting at varied ranges. Stick to it for coyote, fox, bobcat, and long-range target practice.
Q: How does the accuracy typically look with factory ammunition?
A: Very good. With its free-floated barrel and quality trigger, most X-Bolts will shoot 1 MOA or better with quality factory ammo. My rifle consistently groups Federal Premium 55-grain V-Shok ammunition under an inch at 100 yards, which is more than enough for any varmint.
Q: What’s the real benefit of the stainless steel barrel and action?
A: Corrosion resistance, pure and simple. It’s not just for looks. For hunters who deal with morning dew, sudden rain, or simply sweat on their equipment, stainless steel significantly reduces the risk of rust and pitting with minimal maintenance, preserving accuracy and value over the long term.
If you’re after a rugged, accurate, and purpose-driven rifle that’s ready for the elements right off the shelf, the Browning X-Bolt Stainless Stalker in .22-250 deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
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