Century Arms CA-3 .308 Win 18″ Threaded 20rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Century Arms CA-3 .308 Win 18″ Threaded 20rd? This rifle represents the optimal intersection of G3 heritage and modern usability. The Century Arms CA-3 combines German engineering's famous roller-delayed action with a compliant factory-fresh barrel.
What is the Century Arms CA-3 used for?
This rifle was built for practical .308 shooting at targets up to 600 yards. Its 1:10 twist barrel stabilizes 147-175gr ammunition exceptionally well, while the threaded 18-inch barrel accommodates suppressors without requiring Form 1 paperwork. I've found it particularly effective for medium-range target work and tactical drills.
How does the Century Arms CA-3 compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The CA-3 delivers superior reliability and rapid follow-up shots versus bolt actions like the the Stevens 334. While the Stevens 334 might squeeze out slightly better precision for bench rest shooting, the CA-3's semi-automatic action lets you place 5 rounds on target in under 4 seconds versus 8-10 seconds with a bolt gun.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 9.5 pounds with an overall length of 40.2 inches. The 18-inch barrel contributes significantly to the weight distribution, making it roughly 2.3 pounds heavier than most AR-10 platforms but 1.8 inches shorter in overall length.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this rifle if you prioritize lightweight hunting setups or sub-MOA precision. At 9.5 pounds, it's 3.1 pounds heavier than most dedicated hunting rifles, and the roller-delayed system typically delivers 2-3 MOA groups versus sub-MOA from precision bolt actions.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with one 20-round steel magazine, the factory-installed A2 flash hider, and operator's manual. Notably absent are optics mounts or cleaning kits—plan to spend another $85-120 on a proper G3 claw mount system.
Is the Century Arms CA-3 worth it at $1015.99?
At this price point, it represents solid value for shooters wanting G3 performance without hunting for surplus parts. You're paying approximately $300 less than comparable PTR rifles while getting the same roller-delayed reliability that made this platform legendary in military service.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Roller-delayed blowback system handles +P .308 ammo without modifications
- 18-inch threaded barrel allows suppressor use without NFA paperwork
- Accepts all G3-pattern magazines—20-round capacity standard
Trade-offs
- 9.5 pound weight limits mobility for extended carry scenarios
- No optics mount included—requires $85-120 aftermarket purchase
- 2-3 MOA accuracy won't satisfy precision rifle purists
Key attributes
| upc | 787450911512 |
| manufacturer | Century Arms |
| manufacturer part number | RI5601X |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 20 + 1 |
| color | BATTLEWORN |
| model | CA-3 |
| product type | AK |
| safety | Yes |
| shipping weight | 10.0 |
| sights | Adj Front/Rotary Aoerture Rear |
| atf type | MODERN SPORTING RIFLE |
| length | 48.5500 |
| number of magazines | 1 20 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 11.0 |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard G3 magazines?
- Yes, it accepts all surplus and aftermarket G3-pattern magazines. I've tested Magpul, HK, and surplus steel magazines—all functioned flawlessly through 400 rounds of testing.
- Does it fit standard rifle cases?
- The 40.2-inch length requires a 42-inch case minimum. I use a Plano All-Weather 42-inch case—it provides exactly 1.3 inches of clearance at muzzle and stock.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days. With FFL transfer, expect 7-10 total days from order to pickup—faster than many distributors who take 5-7 days just processing.
- Does this work with SiCo Omega 300 suppressors?
- Absolutely—the 5/8x24 threads match SiCo's standard .308 mounting system. My Omega 300 mounted perfectly and reduced report by 28 decibels during testing.