The Winchester Repeating Arms 535741236 XPR Hunter Full Size 338 Win Mag 3+1 26″ Flat Dark Earth Perma-Cote Sporter Barrel, Drilled & Tapped Steel Receiver, TrueTimber Strata Fixed Synthetic Stock is a bolt-action rifle built for serious hunters who need reliable, hard-hitting performance in tough conditions. Chambered in 338 Winchester Magnum, it delivers the downrange energy to take large game at distance. The free-floating, chromoly steel barrel with Perma-Cote finish resists corrosion and keeps accuracy consistent. The drilled and tapped steel receiver accepts standard scope bases, and the TrueTimber Strata stock with Inflex Technology recoil pad tames the heavy magnum recoil. This is a no-nonsense hunting rifle that gives you Winchester quality at a fair price.
| Manufacturer | Winchester Repeating Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | XPR Hunter Full Size (535741236) |
| Material | Chromoly steel barrel and receiver, synthetic stock |
| Compatibility | 338 Winchester Magnum ammunition; standard scope bases (drilled and tapped) |
| Finish | Flat Dark Earth Perma-Cote on barrel, TrueTimber Strata on stock |
| Weight | Approximately 7.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- M.O.A. Trigger System — Why it matters: A crisp, adjustable trigger lets you break clean shots without creep, which is critical when you’re lining up on a buck at 300 yards. Per Winchester, this trigger is factory-set for a consistent pull weight, and you can fine-tune it to your preference.
- Inflex Technology Recoil Pad — Why it matters: The 338 Win Mag kicks hard. This pad uses a directional port design to redirect recoil away from your shoulder, so you stay on target for quick follow-up shots without flinching.
- Detachable Single-Stack Box Magazine — Why it matters: Reloads are fast and safe. The magazine releases with a positive button, and the single-stack design feeds reliably even with magnum cartridges. You get 3+1 capacity, which is standard for a hunting rifle.
- Free-Floating Sporter Barrel — Why it matters: The barrel doesn’t touch the stock anywhere except at the receiver. That means no pressure points from a sling or bipod affect your point of impact, so your cold-bore shot hits where you aim.
- Two-Position Safety and Bolt Release Button — Why it matters: The safety is easy to find with gloves on, and the bolt release lets you unload the chamber without cycling rounds through the action. Simple, proven controls you can trust in the field.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter who needs a magnum chambering for large or dangerous game—elk, moose, bear—and wants a reliable, accurate platform without spending over a thousand dollars. It’s also a good fit for shooters who appreciate a classic bolt-action design with modern updates like the M.O.A. trigger and synthetic stock that won’t warp in wet weather. New gun owners will find the controls intuitive, and the recoil pad makes the 338 Win Mag manageable.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Accurate free-floated barrel; excellent recoil reduction; durable Perma-Cote finish; adjustable trigger; affordable price for a magnum rifle.
- Cons: The synthetic stock feels utilitarian compared to wood or premium chassis stocks—it’s functional but not fancy.
Comparison
| Feature | Winchester XPR Hunter 338 Win Mag | Ruger American Magnum 338 Win Mag | Remington 783 Magnum 338 Win Mag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trigger | M.O.A. adjustable trigger | Ruger Marksman adjustable trigger | Adjustable trigger (factory set) |
| Stock | TrueTimber Strata synthetic with Inflex pad | Moss Green synthetic with Supercell recoil pad | Black synthetic with standard pad |
| Barrel finish | Flat Dark Earth Perma-Cote | Blued | Blued |
| Magazine | Detachable single-stack box (3+1) | Detachable rotary (3+1) | Detachable box (3+1) |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs | 7.3 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Price range | ~$655 | ~$680 | ~$600 |
The Winchester XPR stands out with its Inflex recoil pad and Perma-Cote finish, which the Ruger and Remington lack. All three are solid hunting rifles, but the XPR offers the best corrosion resistance for wet conditions.
FAQ
What scope base pattern does the XPR Hunter use?
The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Winchester XPR scope bases. Most manufacturers offer bases specifically for the XPR—check with your local shop or online retailer. I recommend a one-piece base for maximum rigidity.
Is the trigger adjustable without a gunsmith?
Yes. The M.O.A. trigger has an external adjustment screw for pull weight, and you can do it at home with a small hex key. Per Winchester’s specs, the factory setting is around 3.5 lbs, but you can adjust it between 2.5 and 5 lbs safely.
Will the stock fit a left-handed shooter?
The stock is a standard right-handed design with a cheek rest on the left side. Left-handed shooters can still use it, but the bolt and safety are set for right-hand operation. Winchester does not currently offer a left-hand XPR in 338 Win Mag.
How does the 338 Win Mag compare to 308 or 30-06 for recoil?
The 338 Win Mag produces significantly more recoil—roughly 30-40% more than a 30-06. The Inflex recoil pad helps, but you’ll still feel it. If you’re new to magnums, start with lighter loads to build familiarity.
Can I use a bipod on this rifle?
Yes. The stock has a sling stud on the forend, which accepts most standard bipods. Just remember the barrel is free-floated, so attach the bipod to the stock stud, not the barrel.
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Last updated: April 2026
According to NSSF data, bolt-action rifles account for over 40% of new rifle sales in the U.S. each year, with magnum calibers like 338 Win Mag representing a growing segment for hunters chasing larger game.
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