For years Winchester has made one of the most classic hunting rifle designs of all time in their Model 70. Recently, Winchester has released a rifle that more closely aligns with the modern rifle building techniques with a more mass production oriented design in their XPR. This is the first time in a long time that Winchester has released a new bolt action operating system. Does the Winchester XPR live up to the companies longstanding excellence?
Specifications
Unlike the controlled feed action of the Model 70, the XPR is a push-feed design. Like many of the bolt action designs of the past 10 years, the XPR utilizes a 3-lug bolt with recessed locking lugs, a Sako extractor, and a spring loaded ejector. The XPR feeds from a 3 round single stack magazine that is housed in a polymer stock.
The review model came with a 20 inch barrel that is threaded for a muzzle device, however the base model ships without this feature. The action doesn’t have a traditional recoil lug and instead has a slot fitting into a corresponding lug in the stock, reminiscent of a Tikka.
The trigger on the XPR is Winchester’s MOA trigger, which is identical to the one found on the flagship Model 70. This is a pleasant surprise. The MOA trigger is a hair heavier than I would like, pulling at around 4 lbs. However, the trigger has no discernible takeup and very little overtravel. Overall, the trigger is incredibly crisp for a factory trigger and poses no concerns in the field.
Strengths
First off, likely the biggest advantage to Winchester’s newest entry is the price. The XPR firmly enters the budget rifle segement of the market. In spite of this, the XPR does not feel cheaply made. The teflon coated bolt runs smoothly in the action without the zippering noise of the Ruger American. The safety locks the bolt, unlike most budget rifles. Similar to a Sako 85, a button beside the safety allows the rifle to be unloaded while on safe.
Another strength of the XPR is the feeding. The simple single stack magazine design feeds smoothly and consistently. I was able to hang up the action once when cycling the bolt extremely slowly. That said, I don’t anticipate any issues in normal use. Additionally, the magazine has plenty of room for longer bullets. Considering the 243 Winchester that our copy was chambered for comes with a traditional 1:10 twist, I don’t anticipate any cartridge length related issues.
Thirdly, as mentioned above the trigger is solid for a budget factory rifle. The quality of the feel makes up for the slightly heavier than optimal pull. The manual claims that the trigger is adjustable, but our copy came with the set screw glued into position.
Weaknesses
Like most budget rifles, the Winchester XPR also has drawbacks. Unfortunately, the XPR falls prey to a cheap stock of the type that is endemic with rifles in this price range. The stock on the XPR is particularly egregious, and the hollow buttstock echoes like a drum. Apart from the hollow buttstock, the XPR does have a flatter forend design, which is an appreciated deviation from the budget rifle formula. The pistol grip contour is also better than more traditional lines. Similar to the stock, the single stack magazine functions perfectly fine, but feels cheap. Perhaps I’m an old geezer at heart who just doesn’t like plastic on firearms.
Another shortcoming of the XPR is the ability to single feed. Single feeding through the ejection port is better than other budget rifles like the Ruger American and the Savage Axis. That said, there are still occasional hang-ups. The ability to effortlessly single feed appears to be a luxury for a higher price point.
Finally, the finish on the bolt handle was not very durable. The manufacturer opted to go with a different style of finish on the handle of the bolt than the barrel and action. While the barrel and action have held up to use very well, the bolt handle is wearing very quickly. The damage is small cosmetic scrapes, and doesn’t effect function in any way.
Competition
The XPR is on the higher end of the budget rifle spectrum. Other competitors are the Howa 1500 and the Savage 110. In my experience with Savage actions the XPR will be smoother feeding and more reliable than most Savage 110’s. On average, the Savage is likely more accurate.
Comparing the Howa and the XPR is more of a personal preference. Both rifles will work well. The Howa be a more classic style of firearm with a larger bolt lift, internal floorplate magazine, and heavier weight. The XPR will be more modern with the 60 degree bolt lift, detachable box magazine, and sub 7lb weight. Which style is better is very dependant on the users hunting style.
Closing Thoughts
In summary, the Winchester XPR is a take on the new budget rifle market. The XPR is a bit more expensive than the true bottom basement budget guns. In my opinion, you get your money’s worth. Better feeding, a better trigger, and a few extra ergonomic features make the XPR a great value. The three-lug action is fast an reliable and accuracy is plenty for the price. For a reliable out of the box hunting rifle without finicky magazines the XPR is an excellent choice.