When it comes to backcountry sheep hunting, counting ounces and scrutinizing gear are crucial to success in the field. I measure 5’2 tall on a good day, with an even shorter wingspan that is technically considered pipsqueak status. Because of this, one of the biggest priorities for me when selecting a rifle for sheep hunting was fit and weight. I was looking for something that would perform on the mountain no matter the conditions, yet was light enough to not be too much of a weight consequence since I’d already be carrying clothing, food, and other gear to last ten days.

After extensive research, I ended up going with the Browning X-Bolt Micro chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. At just under 39’’ in overall length with a 13" length of pull, this rifle fits my small stature well and made it comfortable for me to handle in the field. Weighing in at 6lbs 5 oz, it’s also a relatively light mountain rifle without going down the more complicated and expensive custom build options. This rifle also features a muzzle brake for reduced recoil and an all-weather composite stock that’s durable and weather-resistant which is perfect for long days in the mountains in unpredictable weather. 

Once I had the rifle picked out, it was time for a dependable riflescope. I chose to top the X-Bolt Micro with a Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14X40 CDS-ZL with the wind-plex reticle along with a pair of lightweight aluminum Backcountry ringmounts. Similar attributes that landed me on my rifle of choice went into my scope and mount selection. I wanted something that was relatively small, lightweight, and easy to use with the durability that could withstand anything me or mother nature threw at it.

Though I don't see myself taking long shots in hunting scenarios, Leupold's Custom Dial System allowed me to have a totally custom dial made to my exact ammunition and hunting elevations for northern British Columbia (6000'). This custom dial gave me increased confidence in the field by eliminating the need for holdovers or counting MOA clicks for shots beyond my zero, as the number on my custom dial reflected the yardage I needed to shoot for. Super easy, super accurate, and one less thing to stress about in the field.

Throughout my sheep hunt, I encountered rain, snow, sun, and howling wind. I climbed up and down canyons and crossed creeks and rivers. While I didn’t find a ram that was beyond the legal requirements in BC, I always felt confident and prepared that I had the right tool for the job. For the hunter who’s smaller in stature and hunting sheep or deer-sized game in a mountainous backcountry environment, this rifle and scope setup is worth consideration.

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Frankie Foss (@mtbound)

Photographer & Hunter

SPEC LIST AND BUILD COST:

• Rifle: Browning X-Bolt Micro Composite - $1,129.99
• Action: Steel Short-Action
• Barrel: 20"
• Chambering: 6.5 Creedmoor
• Twist Rate: 1:8
• Stock: Browning Composite W/ 13" LOP and Pachmayr Decelerator pad (included)
• Trigger: Browning Three-Lever Feather Trigger Adjustable, 3 - 5 lbs (included)
• Muzzle Brake: SA Radial Removable (included)
• Optic: Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 w/ Wind-Plex Reticle - $749.99
• Rings: Leupold Backcountry Browning X-Bolt 30mm Medium Ringmounts - $89.99
• Accessories: Leupold Neoprene Scope Cover - $29.99
• Preferred Ammunition: Barnes VOR-TX LR 6.5 Creedmoor 127Gr LRXB

Build Total: $1,999.96

SHOP PRODUCTS USED IN THIS BUILD: