Field Test: Browning's Hell's Canyon Lineup

posted on November 1, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
hells_canyon_olmsted_f.jpg

Editor's Note: J. Scott Olmsted had the opportunity to put all of this gear to use on a Wyoming whitetail hunt. You can catch up on that story here.

The X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed bolt-action rifle is built for rough country not unlike Wyoming. For starters, it weighs only 6 pounds 5 ounces in short-action calibers. Its composite stock has textured gripping surfaces and is covered in A-TACs Arid/Urban camo, and its metalwork is coated in Cerakote bronze. It’s a combination of versatile concealment and protection from the elements.

The barrel is glass-bedded, free-floated and fluted, and features a threaded muzzle brake (a thread protector is included); the Feather trigger is adjustable; the safety lies on the tang. One feature I appreciated in Wyoming: the detachable rotary magazine. Many guided affairs find hunters climbing in and out of trucks all day; it’s nice to unload one’s rifle quickly when doing so. It’s available in some of my favorite calibers including .243 Win., .270 Win. and .30-06, and even .26 Nosler and .300 Win. Mag., among others.

Another piece of Hell’s Canyon gear I appreciated was the company’s 4-in-1 Primaloft Parka. It’s waterproof, breathable and quiet with a reversible liner, detachable hood and articulated patterning on a regular cut. That last feature is important. A regular cut, along with mesh lining in the upper body and taffeta in the lower body and sleeves, and lightweight insulation ensures the coat won’t bunch up when you’re on the move. Check out the matching Primaloft Bib, which also features articulated patterning with a regular cut, along with an elasticized waist and suspenders for fabulous freedom of movement.

For more information, go to Browning.com.

Latest

W H2026 02 KNOW HOW CH1019 Hiking A Long Way In Or To Very Specific Refuges Can Lead To Coyote Success, Copyright Mark Kayser
W H2026 02 KNOW HOW CH1019 Hiking A Long Way In Or To Very Specific Refuges Can Lead To Coyote Success, Copyright Mark Kayser

Coyote Hunting Tips: Are You Overlooking These Details?

Don't overlook the small details on your coyote hunts. It could sink your hunt and leave you with a sinking feeling of failure. The following represent areas where overlooked details, big and small, could send your hunt to the bottom of the ocean faster than the Titanic.

New for 2026: Federal Heavyweight TSS Rob Roberts Limited Edition

Federal Ammunition has been shipping its new Heavyweight TSS Rob Roberts Limited Edition turkey loads. Developed in collaboration with legendary choke designer Rob Roberts, these limited-edition offerings are built to deliver extreme range, pattern density and lethal energy.

New for 2026: Pedersoli Kodiak Survivalist Compact Express Rifle

Italian Firearms Group (IFG) has released the Kodiak Survivalist, an all-new compact express rifle from Davide Pedersoli. Known for blending old-world detail with serious performance across its lineup, Pedersoli brings that same disciplined craftsmanship to a utility-driven concept, resulting in what might best be described as a "gentleman's survival rifle."

Turkey Loads 101

Seemingly simple, selecting the proper turkey load is anything but a grab-and-go proposition nowadays. Instead, it requires consideration of key load characteristics, purpose and value, all of which are covered in this article.

New for 2026: Kings Camo XKG Summit Series Packs

Kings Camo has launched its all-new XKG Summit Series Packs. Engineered for versatility, comfort and load-hauling capability, this pack systems offer modular performance suitable for a wide range of adventures, from streamlined day hunts to extended backcountry trips.

New for 2026: Real Avid Ratchet Rest Adjustable Height Shooting Bags

Real Avid has announced the Ratchet Rest—Adjustable Height Shooting Bags designed to give shooters exact elevation control, faster target alignment and repeatable shooting performance.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.