Browning III Bolt Action: Precision, Recoil-Reducing Design

When the hunt or range day requires a rifle that balances classic lines with modern performance, you want a tool you can trust. The BROWNING A-BOLT III brings proven bolt-action reliability and a thoughtful, recoil-mitigating design that suits serious hunters and precision-minded shooters alike.

BROWNING A-BOLT III

Shop this product to see current stock and pick the configuration that fits your mission. The A-Bolt III’s satin finished checkered walnut stock and matte blued, free-floating barrel present a blend of tradition and accuracy-focused engineering right out of the box.

Design and Ergonomics: Classic Look, Modern Controls

Garand Thumb: The A-Bolt III’s straight comb and checkered walnut forend give it the kind of balance and cheekweld consistency you expect from a hunting bolt gun. The stock finish is satin, which reduces glare in the field and offers a tactile surface for a controlled hold. The straight comb works particularly well with low-profile scopes and encourages a repeatable cheek position for follow-up shots.

John Wick: Where the A-Bolt III really earns its keep is in the recoil management. It ships with a dedicated recoil-reducing pad that softens .308 Win recoil without adding bulk. For hunters who put rounds downrange at dawn and dusk, the pad keeps you comfortable and ready for the next shot.

Action and Accuracy Features

Free-Floating Barrel and Matte Blued Finish

The free-floating barrel is a core accuracy feature: it separates the barrel from stock pressures so harmonics stay consistent shot after shot. The matte blued finish on the barrel and receiver gives a low-reflective, durable surface that holds up to field use while maintaining an understated appearance.

Action Geometry and Bolt Design

A 60-degree bolt handle lift combined with an ergonomic bolt knob makes cycling fast and smooth, especially when wearing gloves or working off-hand. The action design encourages quick follow-up shots and easy unloading — important for safe handling and practical field use.

Magazine, Safety, and Scope Prep

The A-Bolt III uses a detachable double-stack magazine with a five-round capacity (Capacity 5), giving you a compact, reliable feeding system that’s easy to load in the field. A top tang safety places the control within natural thumb reach, offering intuitive engagement and safe carry options.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Caliber 308 Win – Capacity 5 – Length of Pull 13 58 – Drop at Comb 1116 – Drop at Heel 12 – Twist Rate 1 in 12 – Barrel Finish Matte Blued – Stock Finish Satin – Drilled and Tapped for Scope Yes – Barrel Length 22 – Overall Length 42 – Weight 6 lbs 11 oz

Garand Thumb: The 1 in 12 twist rate pairs well with typical .308 Win hunting bullets, stabilizing 150–180 grain projectiles effectively. For shooters who prefer heavier match bullets, this twist still offers a lot of flexibility for accurate, consistent groups at moderate hunting ranges.

.308 Winchester: Practical Ballistics for the Field

John Wick: The .308 Win is a versatile, widely available caliber with a long track record on medium and large game. It balances energy, trajectory, and recoil in a way that keeps the A-Bolt III useful from wooded whitetail stands to open-country elk hunts. Paired with the rifle’s recoil-reducing pad and ergonomic stock geometry, the .308 Win is comfortable to shoot all day and capable on ethically sized game.

Weight, Balance, and Handling

At about 6 lbs 11 oz, the A-Bolt III sits in a comfortable weight class for a hunting bolt gun — light enough to carry over long glassing sessions, heavy enough to steady in the shoulder for accurate follow-ups. The overall length of 42 inches with a 22-inch barrel keeps handling nimble in tight brush while still providing good velocity for .308 rounds.

Mounting a Scope and Practical Setup Tips

The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, making it straightforward to mount rings and a low-profile base. Set up with a low-to-medium magnification optic for most hunting scenarios; a 3–9x or 4–12x scope covers anything from close brush work to longer shots where bullet drop requires a steady optic. Keep eye relief and cheekweld in mind — the straight comb and length of pull support consistent sight alignment.

View product details and pricing to assess configurations and see the available options for optics and mounts.

Who Should Consider the A-Bolt III?

Garand Thumb: This rifle is for hunters and shooters who want a reliable field-proven bolt action with a premium wood stock and modern internal features. If you appreciate a satin walnut finish and value recoil control, the A-Bolt III provides an excellent platform without moving into high-dollar specialty territory.

John Wick: It’s also a solid choice for those who want a straightforward, accurate .308 platform for regional hunting seasons. At a price point of $689.99, you get a balance of build quality, performance-oriented features, and a classic aesthetic.

Final thoughts from both of us: The BROWNING A-BOLT III offers a reliable bolt-action package with thoughtful ergonomics, a recoil-reducing pad, and accuracy-minded features like the free-floating barrel and drilled/tapped receiver. Whether you’re walking in at first light or dialing in groups on the range, this rifle is a capable and attractive option at $689.99.

Check availability — clicking this link will take you to our shop page where you can review the A-Bolt III and proceed to purchase through the retailer.

— John Wick & Garand Thumb

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.