Gallery of Guns TV 2012: Marlin XL-7 Bolt Action Rifle Heavy Barrel

Published on November 19, 2012
Duration: 4:13

This review of the Marlin XL-7 VH bolt action rifle, presented by Bo Keester and former Special Forces officer Tom Beckstrand, highlights its design for varmint hunting. Key features include a long, heavy barrel for velocity and sustained firing, user-adjustable trigger, and a stable receiver bedded on aluminum pillars. The rifle is available in .223, .22-250, and .308, with the reviewed model chambered in .308 featuring a 26-inch barrel and a 1:12 twist rate suitable for lighter bullets.

Quick Summary

The Marlin XL-7 VH is a bolt action rifle purpose-built for varmint hunting, featuring a long, heavy barrel for increased velocity and sustained firing. It's available in .223, .22-250, and .308 calibers, with the .308 model boasting a 26-inch barrel and a 1:12 twist rate ideal for lighter bullets. Accuracy is enhanced by aluminum pillars bedding the receiver.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Marlin Rifles Beyond Lever Actions
  2. 00:18Introducing the Marlin XL-7 VH
  3. 00:36Purpose of the XL-7 VH: Varmint Hunting
  4. 00:46Heavy Barrel Benefits
  5. 01:07Available Chamberings
  6. 01:17.308 Caliber and Barrel Specs
  7. 01:33Safety and Cocking Features
  8. 01:39Adjustable Trigger System
  9. 02:02Stabilization Technique for Heavy Rifles
  10. 02:50Bolt Handle Features
  11. 03:06Accuracy Enhancements: Aluminum Pillars
  12. 03:32Finding the Marlin XL-7 VH

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary purpose of the Marlin XL-7 VH rifle?

The Marlin XL-7 VH rifle is primarily designed for varmint hunting. Its key features, such as the long, heavy barrel for velocity and sustained firing, and specific caliber options, are optimized for this application.

What are the available calibers for the Marlin XL-7 VH?

The Marlin XL-7 VH is offered in three popular chamberings: .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, and .308 Winchester. The .308 model features a 26-inch barrel with a 1:12 twist rate suitable for lighter bullets.

How does the Marlin XL-7 VH enhance accuracy?

Accuracy is improved through the rifle's bedding system, which utilizes two aluminum pillars. These pillars provide a solid, stable base for the receiver when the action screws are tightened, minimizing flex and ensuring consistent shot placement.

What are the notable features of the Marlin XL-7 VH's trigger and safety?

The trigger is user-adjustable, allowing a pull weight range from 2.5 to 6.5 pounds. It also incorporates a safety feature requiring the trigger shoe to be depressed before firing. The rifle has a two-position safety and a manual cocking indicator.

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