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

LEDE Thompson Center
LEDE Thompson Center

Thompson/Center Arms Celebrating 60th Anniversary

Thompson/Center Arms is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025. Since 1965, T/C Arms has built a legacy rooted in the pioneering spirit of American hunters.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors: Lucy Evans from Georgia and John Bruner from Pennsylvania.

Head to Head: 7x57mm Mauser vs. .30-06 Springfield

I’ve had more than a few requests for this Head to Head, so I figured it was high time to pit two of the early 20th century’s most popular military cartridges against one another. Let's dive into the 7x57mm Mauser vs. the .30-06 Springfield.

NRA Hunter Education FREE Online Course Now Available in Louisiana

The National Rifle Association of America’s award-winning free Hunter Education online course is now available in the State of Louisiana, the latest addition as NRA works to make the course available to hunters in all 50 states.

Moultrie Updates Line of Game Feeders

Moultrie has expanded the capacity of its line of feeders, and bettered the cameras' integration with the company's connected technology to streamline the feeding process.

Building the Ultimate Elk Bow

Elk are remarkable creatures that dwell in some of the most hellish landscapes on earth. An elk bow needs to be tough, light, and ultra-accurate. Here's how to build the right one for you.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.