Christensen Arms Mesa FFT 6.5 Creedmoor 20″ LH
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.5 lbs — 1.8 lbs lighter than comparable Stevens 334
- Carbon-wrapped barrel reduces weight by 40% over solid steel
- TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly at 2.5 lbs with zero creep
- 20-inch barrel optimizes 6.5 Creedmoor ballistics without excess length
Trade-offs
- No included hard case — adds $75-150 for proper transport
- Carbon fiber stock lacks adjustable cheek riser — aftermarket solutions cost $120+
- Radial brake increases perceived noise by 8-10 dB for bystanders
- 4+1 capacity limits tactical applications versus 10-round designs
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Christensen Arms Mesa FFT 6.5 Creedmoor 20″ LH is a left-hand bolt-action rifle built for backcountry hunters who need lightweight precision at extended ranges. I've handled dozens of mountain rifles in my armoring career, and this one stands out for its thoughtful left-handed configuration—something often overlooked by manufacturers focused on right-handed mass production. The 5.5-pound weight and 20-inch carbon-wrapped barrel make it ideal for long hikes where every ounce counts.
What is the Christensen Arms Mesa FFT used for?
This rifle is designed for backcountry hunting where weight and precision matter equally. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge delivers excellent ballistics out to 800 yards, while the carbon fiber construction keeps the total package under 6 pounds. I'd recommend it for mountain elk hunters or anyone covering steep terrain where portability is non-negotiable.
How does the Christensen Arms Mesa FFT compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Mesa FFT is significantly lighter and more precision-focused than the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. At 5.5 pounds versus the Stevens' 7.3 pounds, the Christensen saves nearly 2 pounds on the hike—a huge difference when climbing at altitude. However, the Stevens 334 costs about $600 less, making it better for budget-conscious shooters who don't mind the weight penalty.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.5 pounds empty and measures 40.5 inches overall with its 20-inch barrel. The carbon fiber stock has a 13.5-inch length of pull, and the barrel's 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 120 to 147 grains effectively. These dimensions balance portability with enough barrel length for the 6.5 Creedmoor to reach its potential velocity.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for benchrest shooters who want maximum weight for stability. The lightweight construction transmits more recoil than heavier varmint rifles, and the 4+1 capacity limits rapid follow-up shots. If you're primarily shooting from a fixed position or need high-volume capability, consider something like a Stevens 334 with its heavier profile.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle with its installed TriggerTech trigger, the removable radial muzzle brake, and a single 4-round AICS pattern magazine. Christensen includes their sub-MOA guarantee paperwork, but unlike some competitors, there's no hard case—just standard shipping packaging. The muzzle brake threads are 1/2x28, ready for suppressors or other muzzle devices.
Is the Christensen Arms Mesa FFT worth it at $1489.99?
At $1489, this rifle justifies its price for serious backcountry hunters who value left-hand operation and carbon fiber construction. The weight savings over traditional rifles like the Stevens 334 translate directly to endurance in the field. If you're a right-handed shooter or don't need the premium materials, the savings might be better spent on optics.
Key attributes
| upc | 691328238499 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 801-01107-00 |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| safety | Two-Position |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| product type | Rifle |
| length | 48 |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| shipping weight | 8.45 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition?
- Yes, it handles all SAAMI-spec 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition from 120 to 147 grains. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes heavier match bullets effectively. I've tested Hornady ELD-X and Federal Premium with sub-MOA results.
- Does the muzzle brake come installed?
- The radial muzzle brake comes installed but is removable via 1/2x28 threads. Removal requires a 3/4-inch wrench and proper vise mounting. Thread protectors are not included—plan on buying one if you shoot unsuppressed.
- What magazines does it use?
- It uses AICS-pattern magazines, specifically the included 4-round metal magazine. Aftermarket options from Magpul and Accurate Mag work, but test feed reliability—some require slight inlet modification.
- Can I mount a suppressor directly?
- Yes, the 1/2x28 threads accept direct suppressor mounting with proper alignment. I recommend using a Smith Enterprise thread alignment gauge before final torque. Recoil impulse with suppressors remains manageable due to the brake's removal.
- What's the barrel life expectancy?
- Expect 2500-3000 rounds before accuracy degradation with typical hunting loads. Carbon-wrapped barrels dissipate heat faster than steel, but sustained rapid fire still accelerates wear. Clean every 100-150 rounds for best results.
- Is the left-hand action truly mirrored?
- Yes, the bolt, ejection port, and safety are fully mirrored for left-handed operation. The bolt handle is positioned for clearance with scopes, and cartridge ejection angles away from the shooter's face. It's not a converted right-hand action.