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 05 Hardwarew3810 TAH 2754Lead
W H2026 05 Hardwarew3810 TAH 2754Lead

Hardware Review: Springfield Model 2020 Boundary

Looking for an accurate bolt action that can tackle just about any sort of terrain? Look no further than the Model 2020 Boundary, from Springfield. Check out David Herman's Hardware Review of the gun here.

New for 2026: MDT HNT Fixed Buttstock and LSS Gen3 Hunting Forend

MDT has released two carbon-fiber components for hunters running XTN-interface chassis systems: the HNT Fixed Buttstock and the LSS GEN3 Hunting Forend.

Gear Roundup: Tech Savvy Hunting

Looking for the latest in high-tech shooting and hunting gear? Look no further, for some of the most cutting-edge equipment sure to make your next range or field session a breeze.

Updated for 2026: Taurus Judge

It's hard to believe it's been 20 years since Taurus launched its now legendary Judge revolver, which quickly became ubiquitous at hunting camps nationwide. Now, two decades later, the legend returns with upgraded looks and updated features.

#SundayGunday: TNW Firearms ASR LTE

Welcome back, to #SundayGunday. This week, we’re checking out a 9mm, which is not something we do very often is this series, focused as it is on hunters and hunting guns. The TNW Firearms Aero Survival Rifle LTE, however, is not your standard 9mm. While it may not quite be a bonafide hunting rifle, this is a gun designed specifically for those who spend their lives deep in the great outdoors.

Oregon Petition to Ban All Hunting Moves Forward

Animal-rights activists in Oregon have surpassed the required 117,000 signatures needed to qualify for the November ballot by submitting more than 126,000 signatures to the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office in support of Initiative Petition 28 (the PEACE Act), which would ban all hunting and fishing in the state—not to mention ranching and so much more.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.