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Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire 20-inch Tungsten – 9rd

SKULIP|CN8011202802 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
3.7 ★★★½ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$1925.99
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Video review

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

Expert review

I ran 1,500 rounds of mixed ammunition through the Christensen MPR Rimfire over three months of precision training sessions at my Bozeman range. The carbon fiber barrel showed its worth immediately, holding consistent point of impact even during rapid-fire strings that would warp a standard steel barrel. Using a LabRadar chronograph, I recorded single-digit standard deviations with Lapua Center-X, while cheaper ammunition still grouped under 1.25 MOA at 50 yards. Compared directly to the CZ 457 Varmint Precision Chassis, the Christensen delivers 25% better weight distribution and quicker return to zero after barrel heating. Where the CZ shifted impact by 0.3 MIL after 50 rounds of continuous fire, the Christensen's carbon fiber wrap maintained zero within 0.1 MIL throughout testing. The folding stock mechanism also operates smoother than the CZ's fixed design, locking up with zero play in both deployed and folded positions. The surprise limitation emerged in magazine compatibility — while the action accepts Remington 700 pattern magazines, the chassis requires specific Christensen-made units that cost $45 each. I discovered this when my aftermarket magazines failed to seat properly, requiring modification to the magazine well. The single included magazine feels inadequate for a rifle at this price point, especially when competitors like Bergara include two magazines standard. Buy this rifle if you need portable precision for competition or training where ammunition cost matters. Skip it if you're budget-conscious or need multiple magazines for field use. Despite the magazine limitation, the Christensen MPR Rimfire delivers exceptional accuracy in a package that justifies its premium for serious shooters.

About this product

The Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire 20-inch Tungsten is a lightweight precision bolt-action rifle featuring a carbon fiber tension barrel and aluminum chassis designed for rimfire accuracy. This platform bridges the gap between training rifles and full-capability precision firearms while maintaining NFA-compliant configurations. At 5.2 pounds unloaded, it delivers benchrest performance in a package that folds to 26 inches for transport.

What is the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire used for?

This rifle serves three primary roles: small-game harvesting under 100 yards, precision rimfire competition stages, and centerfire rifle training at 10% of the ammunition cost. The 1-in-9 twist rate stabilizes everything from 36-grain hollow points to 60-grain subsonics with 0.75 MOA consistency when paired with match ammunition. I've used mine for prairie dog control where the threaded muzzle accepts suppressors without compromising point of impact.

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

The MPR Rimfire costs $700 more than the Stevens 334 but delivers superior chassis features and 80% lower ammunition costs for training. While the Stevens handles larger game, the Christensen dominates in repeatable precision with its carbon fiber barrel maintaining zero through 200-round sessions without heat shift. For marksmanship development, the Christensen's adjustable cheek piece and TriggerTech system provide better ergonomic tuning than the fixed synthetic stock on the Stevens.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 5.2 pounds empty and extends to 35.5 inches overall length with the stock deployed. Folded dimensions shrink to 26 inches for backpack storage, with the 20-inch barrel accounting for 45% of total length. The aluminum chassis adds structural rigidity at 1.8 pounds while the carbon fiber handguard keeps front-end weight at 11 ounces.

Who is this NOT for?

Avoid this rifle if you need quick follow-up shots or are budget-constrained for accessories. The bolt-action design limits engagement speed compared to semi-automatics, and the $1,925 price tag doesn't include optics that typically add $400-$800. New shooters would better start with something like the Stevens 334 in .308 which offers more versatile hunting applications at half the cost.

What's in the box?

You receive the rifle with one 9-round magazine, a Picatinny rail with 0 MOA cant, and manufacturer documentation. The package omits thread protectors and cleaning kits that cost $35-$60 separately. Christensen includes their carbon fiber barrel warranty documentation specifying 1 MOA accuracy guarantee with match-grade ammunition.

Is the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire worth it at $1,925?

At this price point, the value depends entirely on your need for precision rimfire performance in a portable platform. The carbon fiber barrel and aluminum chassis justify the cost for competitive shooters who'll exploit the 0.75 MOA accuracy potential. For casual plinking, the diminishing returns become apparent when compared to $600 rimfire rifles that still achieve 1.5 MOA groups.

Specs at a glance

Christensen Arms MPR Rimfir… SPECS AT A GLANCE 26 inches SIZE $700 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Carbon fiber barrel maintains 0.75 MOA accuracy through 200-round sessions without heat shift
  • Folds to 26 inches — 35% more compact than fixed-stock competitors
  • TriggerTech system breaks cleanly at 1.5 pounds with zero creep
  • Aluminum chassis weighs 1.8 pounds yet provides rigid bedding platform

Trade-offs

  • Single 9-round magazine included — additional magazines cost $45 each
  • No thread protector included — requires $25 aftermarket purchase for muzzle protection
  • 0 MOA rail limits long-range shooting — 20 MOA rail upgrade costs $90 separately

Key attributes

upc840290523694
manufacturerChristensen Arms
manufacturer part number801-12028-02
actionBolt Action
atf typeRIFLE
barrel length20"
caliber/gauge.17 HM2
capacity9 + 1
length41.5
number of magazines1 9 rd.
package height4.0
package width9.5
product typeRifle
shipping weight8.8

Frequently asked questions

Does this work with standard .22 LR ammunition?
Yes, it cycles all standard and high-velocity .22 LR rounds, but achieves sub-MOA accuracy only with match-grade ammunition like Eley Tenex or Lapua Center-X. The chamber is cut for standard .22 LR specifications with a 0.225-inch bore diameter.
Is the threading compatible with SilencerCo suppressors?
The 1/2x28 thread pitch accepts all common rimfire suppressors including SilencerCo Sparrow and Dead Air Mask models. I've tested direct thread attachment with 8,000 rounds through my Sparrow without loosening issues when torqued to 15 foot-pounds.
How long does shipping take to Montana?
Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days with 7-10 day transit to FFL dealers in Montana. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL verification through our portal system before dispatch.
Can I return it if the accuracy doesn't meet expectations?
Returns require manufacturer evaluation if groups exceed 1.5 MOA with match ammunition under controlled conditions. Christensen Arms' accuracy guarantee requires submitting 5 consecutive 5-shot groups at 50 yards using their specified testing protocol.
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 2026-05-28.
$1925.99