Know of any Browning A-bolt issues?

[elktrout]

I saw a couple of really nice A-bolts this past weekend, and I actually like them better than the X-bolt. Do you know of any predominant or common issues with them that I should consider? I am looking at a 300 mag. Thanks.

 

[EchoM70]

The only problem I'm aware of, and you might not even consider this a problem. Browning uses a strong thread locker on their barrels, making barrel changes very difficult.

So when it comes time for a barrel change, which could very well be not in your life time, you're going to be hard pressed to find someone willing to work on them. There is gunsmiths out there that will, just few and far between.

Otherwise, they're some really nice rifles.

 

[Vol46]

I have one in .300 Win mag with a BOSS. The noise from the mag round & the muzzle brake makes it impossible to shoot without ear protection, but other than that, it is a fine gun.

 

[W.E.G.]

The A-bolt is a lightweight rifle.

That .300 probably has very few rounds through it.

I can't imagine wearing out the barrel on a .300 mag A-bolt in ten generations of hunters.

I have one in 30-06, and I promise you, it is NOT a "let's go burn a whole can of ammo" kind of gun.

 

[Fishbed77]

The noise from the mag round & the muzzle brake makes it impossible to shoot without ear protection

ALL unsuppressed firearms (even .22LR) should be considered impossible to shoot without ear protection.

Why risk hearing loss when it's so easy to stick plugs in your ears?

 

[Riomouse911]

I agree about the light weight; years ago I had an A-bolt Medallion in .338 Win..that thing kicked like an Army mule! I put maybe 80 rounds through it total before it was sold off to pay my rent between jobs. I can honestly say I don't miss it one bit.

 

[me26245]

I have an Browning A-bolt in 375 H&H. I would recommend installing a Pachmayer Decellerator butt pad, it will help with felt recoil.
Even with the butt pad I can only fire maybe 20-25 rounds before my shoulder is done for.
The only problem I've had was with the action screws loosening from recoil. I used some locktite and haven't had any issues since.

 

[Sock Puppet]

I have one in 300WSM and love it. Granted, it's not a "shoot all day at the range" gun, but it's great to pack and it shoots very, very well.

If I ever start thinking it kicks a bit much, I'll go burn a box or two through one of my Mosins to remind me what recoil feels like.

 

[Chief Engineer]

I've had a Medallion for 20 years or so in 280. No issues and very accurate.

 

[bergmen]

I've had an A-Bolt II Medallion in .300 WSM for several years. By far the most accurate rifle I've ever owned and exceptionally well made. Very smooth action, tight lock-up, solid.

I highly recommend them.

Dan

 

[elktrout]

Getting pounded by a rifle is no fun for me either. When I shoot my 7mm magnum, I use a PAST recoil pad backed up with two pieces of high density foam carpet padding. I never feel beat up when the day is over at the range. When hunting, I don't recall ever being aware of the recoil.

Thanks for the replies. I really like the A-bolt Medallion. It has moved to the top of my short list, at least for now.