Browning X-Bolt Varmint Special Stainless .223 Rem, SHOT Show Special (2013), 24-inch Heavy Barrel, Laminated Thumbhole Stock
This X-Bolt Varmint Special Stainless is a limited SHOT Show Special configuration, cataloged in 2011 and 2013, chambered in .223 Rem. It features a 24-inch heavy stainless barrel with a recessed crown and a matte stainless receiver, paired with Browning's laminated Paladin thumbhole stock. Built by Miroku in Japan and drilled and tapped for X-Lock bases, it combines a precise three-lug, 60-degree bolt with the user-adjustable Feather Trigger in a purpose-built, limited-run package.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There are a couple of small spots of pitting and light scuffs noted.
What's Included
- Browning X-Bolt owner's manual
- One 4-round Browning X-Bolt rotary polymer magazine for .223 Rem
This SHOT Show Special X-Bolt Varmint Special Stainless is a limited-run configuration, documented as cataloged in 2011 and 2013. This example was manufactured in 2013 and carries NP proof and the barrel marking "BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH MADE IN JAPAN/MIROKU," underscoring its Japanese Miroku manufacture.
The rifle centers on a 24-inch heavy-contour stainless barrel with a matte finish and recessed crown. It is unthreaded and ships without iron sights. The receiver is matte stainless and drilled and tapped for Browning's X-Lock scope mounting system, using four screws per base (eight holes total) for secure base attachment.
Action features include the three-lug bolt with a 60-degree lift for scope clearance, a top-tang safety, and a bolt unlock button that allows safe cycling with the safety engaged. The single-stage Feather Trigger is user-adjustable, providing a crisp break tailored to the shooter.
The laminated Paladin thumbhole stock is finished in gray/black with a Monte Carlo cheekpiece, a vented beavertail fore-end (three triangular vents per side), and checkering at the pistol grip. Sling swivel studs and Browning's Inflex recoil pad are factory installed. Length of pull is 13.5 inches.
Chambered in .223 Rem with a 4+1 capacity, the rifle uses a detachable rotary polymer magazine. The overall configuration is designed for steady bench or field shooting, with the heavy barrel, rigid laminated stock, and precise trigger system working together for repeatable performance.