The Browning AB3 A-Bolt III 6.5 Creedmoor 22in Mossy Oak is a production bolt-action rifle built for shooters who demand repeatable accuracy in the field without a custom-gun price tag. Chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor with a 22-inch sporter contour barrel, this model pairs a free-floating barrel and a radial-style muzzle brake on a threaded muzzle to reduce recoil and keep your sight picture stable. The Mossy Oak Bottomland synthetic stock resists weather, and the Inflex recoil pad improves contact and comfort. At $722.68, it delivers a purpose-built platform for hunting and precision field use.
| Manufacturer | Browning (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | AB3 A-Bolt III |
| Material | Steel barrel and receiver; synthetic stock with textured grip panels |
| Compatibility | 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition; A-Bolt III scope bases (drilled and tapped receiver) |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland camo on stock; blued barrel and metalwork |
| Weight | Approximately 7.2 lb (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Free-floating barrel: The barrel contacts only the receiver, eliminating stock-induced pressure points that throw shots off at distance. This matters because consistent barrel harmonics are the foundation of sub-MOA accuracy in a production rifle.
- Radial-style muzzle brake on threaded muzzle: Reduces felt recoil by diverting gas radially, letting you spot your own impacts and stay on target for faster follow-up shots. It matters when you’re shooting from field positions or running a suppressor later.
- Inflex recoil pad: A soft, progressive-density pad that compresses under recoil to spread the load across your shoulder. It matters because a comfortable rifle you shoot more is a rifle you shoot better.
- Drilled and tapped receiver: Ready for scope bases out of the box, with standard A-Bolt III pattern. It matters because you can mount your optic without sending the action to a gunsmith.
- Mossy Oak Bottomland synthetic stock with textured grip panels: Weather-resistant and non-slip even in wet conditions. It matters because a stable grip under rain or sweat keeps your hold consistent from the first shot to the last.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter or long-range shooter who wants a reliable, accurate 6.5 Creedmoor without stepping into the $1,200+ custom-action market. If you’re building a do-it-all rifle for deer, hogs, or steel out to 800 yards, and you want a factory build that already has a threaded muzzle and a free-floated barrel, the AB3 A-Bolt III fits that slot. It’s also a solid choice for a first precision rifle if you plan to upgrade the stock or trigger later.
Pros/Cons
Pros: Free-floating barrel gives good accuracy potential for the price. Threaded muzzle with brake included. Inflex pad tames 6.5 Creedmoor recoil to near .223 levels. Mossy Oak camo is functional for hunting. Drilled and tapped receiver simplifies optic mounting.
Cons: The factory trigger is serviceable but not match-grade — expect around 4-5 lb pull. The sporter barrel profile will heat up faster than a heavy varmint contour during strings of fire. If you plan to shoot 20-round groups in a PRS-style match, you’ll want a heavier barrel.
Comparison
| Feature | Browning AB3 A-Bolt III 6.5 Creedmoor | Tikka T3x Lite 6.5 Creedmoor | Ruger American Predator 6.5 Creedmoor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel | 22 in sporter contour, free-floated, threaded 5/8×24 | 22.4 in sporter contour, free-floated, threaded 5/8×24 | 22 in heavy sporter contour, threaded 5/8×24 |
| Stock | Synthetic, Mossy Oak Bottomland, textured grip | Synthetic, black, smooth | Synthetic, black, textured grip panels |
| Recoil Pad | Inflex Technology | Standard rubber pad | Soft rubber pad |
| Trigger | Factory adjustable, ~4.5 lb | Tikka single-stage, ~2.5 lb (adjustable) | Ruger Marksman, adjustable |
| Weight | ~7.2 lb | ~6.3 lb | ~7.1 lb |
| Price | $722.68 | ~$750 | ~$550 |
| Best For | Hunters who want camo + brake | Lightweight hunting with best out-of-box trigger | Budget precision with aftermarket support |
The Tikka T3x has a better factory trigger and is lighter, but costs more and lacks camo. The Ruger American Predator is cheaper but has a heavier barrel and a less refined action. The Browning sits in the middle with a threaded brake and camo stock that the others don’t offer at this price.
FAQ
What twist rate is the barrel on the Browning AB3 A-Bolt III 6.5 Creedmoor?
Per Browning specs, the 22-inch barrel has a 1:8 twist rate, which stabilizes bullets from 120 to 147 grains commonly used in 6.5 Creedmoor for hunting and long-range target shooting.
Does the Browning AB3 A-Bolt III come with scope rings or bases?
No, the receiver is drilled and tapped, but rings and bases are sold separately. You’ll need A-Bolt III pattern bases or a one-piece rail to mount your optic.
Can I suppress this rifle?
Yes. The muzzle is threaded 5/8×24 with a radial brake installed. You can remove the brake and attach a direct-thread suppressor or use a QD mount that fits 5/8×24 threads.
What is the magazine capacity?
The Browning AB3 A-Bolt III uses a detachable box magazine with a 4-round capacity for 6.5 Creedmoor, flush with the stock.
Is the stock adjustable for length of pull?
No, the Mossy Oak Bottomland stock is fixed length of pull. The Inflex recoil pad is not adjustable for LOP, but you can add a spacer or aftermarket pad if needed.
Trust & Logistics
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
According to NSSF data, 6.5 Creedmoor accounted for over 20% of bolt-action rifle sales in 2025, making it the most popular long-range hunting cartridge. The Browning AB3 A-Bolt III is a solid entry in that segment.
Browse more Bolt Action Rifles or check our 6.5 Creedmoor Rifles and Hunting Rifles categories.


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