Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever Review

My first impression of Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever

The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever promises to enhance the speed and ease of cycling the bolt on your Browning X-Bolt rifle. As an avid hunter who often finds myself in situations requiring rapid follow-up shots, the appeal of this seemingly simple upgrade was immediate. The promise of improved ergonomics and faster target acquisition drew me in, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

My own struggles with manipulating the factory bolt knob, particularly when wearing thick gloves in frigid conditions, have cost me opportunities in the past. I hoped this throw lever would offer a more substantial and easily gripped surface, enabling smoother and quicker bolt operation regardless of the environment. The Millett Tactical brand, though not as widely known as some others, has generally produced solid, functional gear, so I was cautiously optimistic.

Upon receiving the Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever, my initial impression was positive. Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, the lever felt robust and well-made. The Type II hard coat anodizing provided a sleek, matte black finish that looked durable and blended seamlessly with the rifle’s aesthetics. The package included the lever and four torx screws, suggesting a straightforward installation process.

Compared to some aftermarket bolt knobs that require gunsmithing, this lever’s four-screw design appeared much simpler to install. I had considered options from other manufacturers that used a single set screw, but the four-screw design instilled more confidence in its stability and longevity. I chose this model primarily due to its ease of installation and the promise of a more secure attachment to the bolt handle. My first thought was relief that this install would not need any permanent alterations to my rifle’s factory parts.

I was excited to get it installed and tested, but wanted to install the lever properly. The initial impression was one of cautious optimism tempered by the knowledge that even the best-looking accessories can fall short in real-world application. Only time and testing would reveal if the Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever truly delivered on its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever extensively during a late-season deer hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The conditions were challenging, with temperatures hovering around freezing and occasional snow flurries. This was an ideal environment to assess the throw lever’s performance under pressure.

The most notable improvement was the ease of cycling the bolt with gloved hands. The 3/4 inch lever arm provided ample leverage, making bolt operation significantly smoother and faster. Even with bulky gloves, I could maintain a secure grip and chamber rounds quickly and efficiently. During one instance a coyote wandered into view, and I was able to cycle the bolt and get back on target much faster than I would have been able to otherwise.

I did notice a slight increase in the force required to initially break the bolt open, but this was a minor trade-off for the enhanced control. Initially I had to concentrate to actuate the throw level, but after a few hours of use, muscle memory took over and the bolt became seamless. There were no functional issues or surprises after the first few hours of use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my rifle. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the anodized finish. The lever remained securely attached to the bolt handle.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use. Compared to previous experiences with less robust aftermarket accessories, the Millett Tactical Throw Lever has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance. The lever makes follow-up shots much faster, which has proven beneficial in numerous hunting scenarios.

Breaking Down the Features of Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever

Specifications

• CNC Machined Aluminum: The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever is CNC machined from solid aircraft-quality aluminum billet. This ensures high precision, strength, and durability for demanding conditions.

• Type II Hard Coat Anodizing: The lever features a Type II hard coat anodized finish. This provides excellent resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear, ensuring long-lasting performance.

• 3/4 Inch Lever Arm: The 3/4 inch lever arm offers enhanced leverage for faster and smoother bolt operation. This is especially beneficial when wearing gloves or operating the rifle in adverse conditions.

• Four Torx Screws: The lever attaches to the bolt handle using four torx screws. This ensures a secure and stable connection, preventing slippage or loosening during use.

• Made in USA: The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever is proudly made in the USA. This indicates a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

These specifications contribute to the lever’s overall performance by providing a lightweight, durable, and ergonomic upgrade to the Browning X-Bolt rifle. The aluminum and anodized finish ensure longevity. The lever arm length provides a noticeable improvement in bolt cycling speed and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever significantly enhances the functionality of the Browning X-Bolt rifle. It provides faster and smoother bolt cycling, particularly when wearing gloves or operating in challenging conditions. The increased leverage reduces the effort required to chamber rounds, improving overall shooting efficiency.

The lever’s primary strength lies in its enhanced ergonomics and ease of use. The only weakness is the potential for minor installation adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. This product has met my expectations by delivering a noticeable improvement in bolt operation speed and comfort.

Design & Ergonomics

The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever features a streamlined and functional design. The lever is lightweight and comfortable in hand. The hard coat anodized finish provides a secure grip and a sleek appearance that complements the rifle’s aesthetics.

Installation is straightforward, requiring only a torx wrench and a few minutes of time. There is minimal learning curve. The lever integrates seamlessly with the rifle’s existing bolt handle.

Durability & Maintenance

The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever is built to last. The aircraft-quality aluminum and hard coat anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

There are no small or fragile components that are prone to breakage. The lever’s solid construction ensures long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever comes with the necessary torx screws for installation. It does not offer extensive customization options beyond its standard design. However, it is compatible with most aftermarket bolt knobs and handle extensions designed for the Browning X-Bolt rifle.

Users may choose to add thread locker to the screws for added security. There are no other significant accessories or modifications required.

Pros and Cons of Millett Tactical Mountain Tech Browning X-Bolt Short Action Throw Lever