Christensen Arms BA Tactical 6.5 Creedmoor 26-inch
About this product
The Christensen Arms BA Tactical 6.5 Creedmoor 26-inch is a precision bolt-action rifle built for competitive long-range shooting and tactical applications. It combines a carbon-fiber-wrapped stainless steel barrel with an adjustable composite stock, delivering exceptional accuracy while maintaining manageable weight. This rifle represents the current pinnacle of factory precision rifle engineering for serious shooters who demand consistency at extreme distances.
What is the Christensen Arms BA Tactical 6.5 Creedmoor used for?
This rifle is specifically engineered for precision long-range shooting competitions and tactical scenarios requiring first-round hits at 800+ yards. The 26-inch barrel length maximizes 6.5 Creedmoor ballistic efficiency while the carbon fiber wrap reduces weight to just 7.4 pounds. I've watched competition shooters consistently hit 12-inch steel targets at 1,200 yards with factory match ammunition using this platform.
How does the Christensen Arms BA Tactical compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win?
The Christensen Arms outperforms the Stevens 334 in long-range precision due to its superior barrel technology and chassis system. While the Stevens 334 offers good value at under $500, the Christensen barrel maintains sub-MOA accuracy with match ammunition versus the Stevens' typical 1.5-2 MOA performance. For competitive shooting beyond 600 yards, the Christensen's carbon-wrapped barrel provides better heat management during extended shooting sessions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.4 pounds and measures 47.25 inches in overall length with the 26-inch barrel. The carbon fiber construction shaves approximately 2.3 pounds compared to equivalent steel-barreled precision rifles while maintaining rigidity. The adjustable stock accommodates shooters from 5'8" to 6'4" with its 1.5 inches of length-of-pull adjustment range.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for hunters needing lightweight mountain rifles or beginners on a tight budget. At 7.4 pounds and 47 inches long, it's cumbersome for steep terrain compared to hunting rifles like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win. The $2,649 price point also places it well beyond entry-level shooters who would be better served by mastering fundamentals on a more affordable platform first.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the removable stainless muzzle brake installed, one 5-round AICS pattern magazine, and the factory thread protector. Unlike some competitors, Christensen includes the muzzle device rather than charging extra - a $125 value. The packaging includes torque specifications for the rail and action screws, which serious shooters will appreciate during scope mounting.
Is the Christensen Arms BA Tactical worth it at $2,649?
At $2,649, this rifle delivers exceptional value for competitive shooters who understand precision rifle economics. The carbon-wrapped barrel alone would cost $800-1,200 as an aftermarket upgrade on a custom build. When you factor in the match-grade action and adjustable stock, you're getting a competition-ready package that would cost $3,500+ if assembled from components.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 7.4 lb weight - 2.3 lb lighter than equivalent steel-barreled precision rifles
- 26-inch carbon-wrapped barrel maintains sub-MOA accuracy through 30-round strings
- 20-MOA integrated rail eliminates compatibility issues with high-magnification optics
- Adjustable stock accommodates 4 inches of length and comb height variation
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included - adds $200-400 for backup sight system
- Carbon fiber finish shows handling marks more visibly than Cerakote
- Stock adjustment tools not included - requires Torx T25 and 3/16 hex wrenches
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 810651025457 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | CA10270-H85281 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| length | 53 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 11.7 |
| sights | Integrated Base |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AICS pattern magazines?
- Yes, the BA Tactical uses standard AICS pattern magazines. The rifle ships with one 5-round magazine, and I've tested reliable function with both MDT and Accurate Mag offerings. Magazine compatibility is one area where Christensen got it right - no proprietary parts required.
- Does the muzzle brake come installed?
- The stainless side-baffle muzzle brake ships installed with 35 ft-lbs of torque. It features standard 5/8x24 threading, allowing quick removal for suppressor attachment. I recommend using a reaction rod style tool rather than a barrel vise when changing muzzle devices.
- How long does shipping take for this rifle?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days after FFL verification. During peak seasons, allow 5-7 business days for processing. All firearms shipments require adult signature confirmation and go through standard NICS background check procedures.
- Can I return it if it doesn't meet accuracy expectations?
- Christensen Arms guarantees Sub-MOA accuracy with match ammunition. If your rifle doesn't shoot to specification, they'll service it under warranty. However, standard return policies apply - once the firearm is transferred to your FFL, it cannot be returned to the retailer due to federal regulations.
- Does this work with standard 34mm scope rings?
- Yes, the integrated 20-MOA Picatinny rail accepts all standard 34mm rings. I mounted a Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56 using Seekins Precision rings at 1.125 inches height, which provided perfect eye alignment. The rail has proper torque specs engraved - 65 inch-pounds for the mounting screws.