Xbolt 2 vs 307 Alpine

[Backcast88]

I've been wanting to add a 280AI to the safe for a few years now. I had made up my mind i was going to get a Browning X Bolt 2 Speed as a Christmas gift to myself. Well, now I've come across the 307 Alpine CT and ST. One has a steel barrel and the other has a carbon barrel.

I owned a X Bolt Hells Canyon a couple of years ago in 270 Win and regret selling that rifle. It was a sweet shooter and was well under MOA. I loved the tang safety and had no objections to the rotary mag.

Both 307 Alpine models intrigue me being nearly a lb lighter than the Browning. I love the trigger tech triggers in my Seekins and R700 so I think i would prefer this trigger over the Browning. My old X Bolt trigger was okay. Broke clean but was heavy so if I get the X Bolt 2 I would likely replace it with a Timney.

My 2 reservations with the 307 rifles are with the stock and overall accuracy of the guns. I've not seen a ton of 307 accuracy reports and some reviews have them shooting about MOA but not many seem to shoot great. Maybe they are worn out review samples but I would hope to see better accuracy with them. And for the stock. It looks nice. I like the higher comb and vertical grip. But the vertical grip looks rather thin and slippery. Anybody have any input on the Peak 44 stock they use?

So I guess my question is, should I stick with my plan of a X Bolt 2? Or should I look at the 307 Alpine ST? Or get the 307 CT?

 

[allstajacket]

I have the X-Bolt 2 Speed in 7PRC (20” barrel.)

Ive only shot it once so far, but it did not really like the factory ammo I tried (Hornady outfitter 160gr CX.)

I plan to load some rounds for it and try again but overall, it’s a nice rifle. I’m still trying to fall in love with it, but it feels a bit heavy compared to my favorite, my Winchester Model 70 Extreme Weather MB in .308.

I think I’m not a fan of the tacky/rubbery feel on the grip portions of the synthetic stock. It may just be my own personal preferences but I enjoy the stock on the Winchester, and I also like the carbon fiber stock on my Weatherby Vanguard Talon.

I think I still want to get a tikka or 2 and outfit them to my liking. A short barrel 308 or 7-08, and a 300wsm I think. I enjoy variety.

Just my $0.02. If you like the weight and the feel of the stock, go for it! The trigger is fine. It’s not a triggertech, or even close, but it’s a fine trigger for a hunting rifle.


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[hoooogan]

My first rifle was/is an XBolt SPR in 6.5CM. Love the rifle but absolutely hate the limited aftermarket support. I can get a trigger from one brand. That's it. No stocks/chassis, no barrels, no extended mags, nothing. I won't be buying another Browning.

FWIW, I bought a Waypoint 2020 which is a direct competitor to the 307 Alpine CT. Smooth R700 action, fluted bolt, BSF barrel, Triggertech Field, similar stocks. I liked my Waypoint so much, I got the Redline 2020 to replace my XBolt. Same combo with a slightly shorter barrel and a lightweight Grayboe stock

 

[Nicaburns]

I’m a big Xbolt fan and have owned 7 of them but it is my Alpine CT that will be with me this fall. I love everything about it BUT do wish it had the 60 degree bolt throw and lock down bolt of the Browning. I am a huge fan of the Peak 44 stock… it is very easy to control and carry. With an Trijicon 2.5-15x42 the rifle is under 8# and shoots great.
Even with the bolt caveat, it is a better rifle in every way in my experience.