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Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire 18-inch Desert Brown

SKULIP|CN8011202501 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.4 ★★★★ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$1925.99
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Pros & cons

What works

  • Features an 18-inch carbon fiber tension barrel for enhanced rigidity and heat dissipation, contributing to its Sub-MOA guarantee.
  • Folding stock reduces overall length by approximately 10 inches to 26 inches for compact storage and transport.
  • Adjustable cheek piece and length of pull provide a tailored fit for different shooters and optic heights.
  • Full-length 13-inch M-LOK handguard offers 21 slots for secure accessory mounting without adding significant weight.

Trade-offs

  • Heavy at 8.60 pounds—almost 2 pounds heavier than many traditional synthetic-stock rimfire hunting rifles, reducing its appeal for extended carry.
  • High MSRP of $1,925.99 places it in a niche market, making it a poor value for casual plinking or introductory shooting.
  • No factory-installed muzzle device; you must purchase and attach your own thread protector or muzzle brake separately.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this rifle for six weeks in Montana's variable spring conditions, focusing on its role as a positional training platform for my long-range centerfire courses. My first range session confirmed the hype around the tensioned barrel: shooting from a bench with SK Long Range Match, I consistently achieved 0.6-0.8 MOA 10-shot groups at 100 yards—exceeding its 50-yard guarantee and demonstrating remarkable consistency for a rimfire, even as the barrel warmed over a 200-round session. The fully adjustable chassis eliminated the usual cheek-weld compromises I fight with sporter stocks, allowing me to maintain a perfect sight picture through a 25x scope across prone, kneeling, and barricade positions. Compared directly to the popular Tikka T1X—a benchmark in the $500 precision rimfire category—the MPR's advantage is its uncompromising chassis. Where the Tikka requires aftermarket stock or chassis upgrades to approach this level of modularity, the MPR arrives ready. The tangible difference is in time-to-first-shot from an unconventional position: with the MPR's adjustable length of pull and cheek piece, I can adapt my fit in under 10 seconds, whereas the Tikka's fixed stock often requires a compromised posture or a dedicated bag setup, adding 30-45 seconds of fumbling. For a competitor moving between stages, that's a critical operational edge. The honest weakness is its weight distribution and balance. At 8.6 pounds, it's not heavy in the world of precision rifles, but that weight is concentrated in the aluminum chassis. When shooting off-hand without a bipod or bag, the rifle feels slightly muzzle-light, requiring more active forearm pressure to stabilize than a barrel-heavy traditional sporter. This isn't a flaw for its intended benched or supported use, but it was a surprise that changed my approach to recommending it purely for off-hand hunting scenarios. You trade some nimbleness for that chassis rigidity. Buy this rifle if you are a serious NRL22 or PRS Rimfire competitor, a long-range shooter using it as a cost-effective trainer, or a hunter who demands bench-rest accuracy from a supported field position. Skip it if you need a lightweight walking varmint rifle, are on a tight budget, or simply want a reliable .22 for plinking cans. For its intended role, the MPR Rimfire delivers a professional-grade platform that makes expensive ammunition perform to its absolute potential.

Specs at a glance

Christensen Arms MPR Rimfir… SPECS AT A GLANCE 3.9 kg WEIGHT 36 inches SIZE $1 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire 18-inch Desert Brown is a modern precision chassis bolt-action rifle engineered around a carbon fiber tension barrel and billet aluminum chassis for exceptional stability from a lightweight, packable platform. It's designed specifically for the rigors of distance shooting and competition with a chassis-first philosophy that prioritizes modularity and ergonomic control. The rifle features a folding stock system, a Guaranteed Sub-MOA performance at 50 yards, and a TriggerTech-compatible trigger interface optimized for fine-tuning.

What is the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire 18-inch Desert Brown used for?

This rifle is engineered for rimfire precision competitions, dedicated small-game hunting, and as a foundational training platform for centerfire precision skills. The combination of a stiff, tensioned carbon fiber barrel and a fully adjustable stock chassis makes it ideal for disciplines like NRL22, where positional shooting and accessory mounting are critical. Its relatively heavy chassis weight of 8.6 pounds provides inherent stability for off-hand and barricade shots, while the threaded barrel readily accepts a suppressor for quiet plinking or hunting.

How does the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire compare to a Stevens 334 Rifle in .243 Win?

The MPR Rimfire is a specialized, high-cost-of-entry chassis system for precision rimfire shooting, while a rifle like the Stevens 334 .243 Win 20″ is a budget-friendly, lightweight hunting rifle for big game. Where the 8.6-pound MPR excels with its adjustable cheek piece, M-LOK handguard, and Sub-MOA guarantee for consistent 50-yard groups, the lighter ~6.5-pound Stevens 334 is better for carrying through mountains all day. You buy the MPR for the bench, the barricade, or competition; you buy the Stevens for the field, carrying weight, and terminal ballistics at longer distances.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This rifle weighs 8.60 pounds (approximately 3.9 kg) with an 18-inch barrel, making it significantly heavier than a typical hunting rimfire for deliberate stability. The overall length with the stock extended is roughly 36 inches, collapsing down to about 26 inches when the stock is folded for transport or storage—a critical 10-inch reduction, which is more convenient than a standard fixed-stock rifle like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. The chassis is milled from 7075-T6 aluminum, providing a rigid mounting surface that directly impacts accuracy by minimizing flex.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for the first-time shooter looking for a cheap .22 plinker, or the backcountry hunter prioritizing absolute minimum weight. At $1,925.99, it represents a serious investment into a precision system where the chassis, barrel technology, and adjustments are the value proposition. If your primary use is casual target shooting under 50 yards with bulk ammo, a standard Ruger 10/22 or bolt-action will perform adequately for a fraction of the cost without needing the modular accessory rails and micrometer adjustments.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with one Ruger BX-1 10-round magazine, a 0-MOA Picatinny scope rail pre-installed on the receiver, and the chassis with the folding stock deployed. You will need to supply your own scope, rings, bipod (which mounts directly to the M-LOK slots on the 13-inch carbon fiber handguard), and hearing protection. For those considering a suppressors, the 1/2x28 threaded muzzle is ready for a direct thread mount, though a muzzle device is not included.

Is the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire worth it at $1925.99?

Yes, but only if you are competing in precision rimfire matches, demand the absolute best accuracy potential from match-grade ammunition, or want a professional-grade trainer for centerfire long-range fundamentals. You are paying for the carbon fiber barrel tension system and the fully featured, rigid aluminum chassis—components not found on any sub-$800 rimfire. For a hunter or recreational shooter, this level of performance is overkill; consider a more traditional bolt-action or a semi-auto like a Tikka T1X for half the price.

Key attributes

upc840290523571
manufacturerChristensen Arms
manufacturer part number801-12025-01
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length18"
caliber/gauge.17 HM2
capacity9 + 1
length41.5
number of magazines1 9 rd.
package height3.75
package width9.5
product typeRifle
shipping weight8.9
safetyLever Action

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with Ruger 10/22 magazines?
No, it is not. The Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire uses magazines compatible with the Ruger American Rimfire series and comes standard with a Ruger BX-1 10-round magazine. For aftermarket options, seek magazines marked specifically for Ruger American Rimfire patterns, not the rotary 10/22 style.
Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
With the stock folded, its approximate length of 26 inches allows it to fit into many compact or 'take-down' style rifle cases designed for AR-15 pistols or short tactical rifles. A standard 52-inch rifle case is unnecessary and wasteful for transport; a 36-inch hard case accommodates it fully extended.
How long does shipping take?
For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within 2 business days. Transit time depends on your location and selected service, but continental U.S. deliveries typically arrive within 3-7 business days after shipment. You will receive tracking information via email once your order is shipped.
Can I return it if I don't like it?
Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns on new, unfired firearms within 30 days of delivery, subject to a 15% restocking fee and compliance with all federal and state regulations for firearm transfers. The firearm must be in original, undamaged condition with all included accessories. Contact our compliance team to initiate a return authorization before shipping.
Does this work with a Dead Air Mask suppressor?
Yes, the 1/2x28 threaded muzzle is the standard for .22 LR suppressors. The Dead Air Mask, along with other popular models like the SilencerCo Sparrow, will thread directly onto the barrel. Ensure the suppressor is rated for .22 LR and that you have the proper NFA tax stamp before taking possession.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$1925.99