Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT 6.5 PRC 20-inch Threaded Barrel
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT 6.5 PRC 20-inch Threaded Barrel? It's a carbon-wrapped bolt-action rifle built for precision hunters who need to cover ground without sacrificing accuracy at extended ranges. This isn't a range toy; it's a purpose-built tool that leverages advanced materials to solve the weight versus stability equation that plagues backcountry hunters. With a confirmed weight of 5.30 pounds and an overall length of 42.50 inches, it occupies a specific niche that demands scrutiny.
What is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT used for?
The Ridgeline FFT is designed for high-angle, long-distance hunting in challenging terrain like the Montana backcountry or Alaskan tundra. It's chambered in 6.5 PRC to deliver ample energy for elk-sized game out to 600 yards, making it ideal for hunters who regularly take shots beyond 400 yards. The threaded 20-inch barrel is optimized for suppressor use, reducing report by approximately 30 decibels with a quality can, which is crucial when hunting in areas with sensitive game.
How does the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Ridgeline FFT outperforms the Stevens 334 in weight reduction and long-range ballistics, but at nearly four times the price. Where the 6.5 PRC cartridge maintains supersonic flight and energy significantly farther than the .308 Winchester, the real advantage is the carbon fiber construction, which saves over 2 pounds. The Christensen is better for the serious hunter who logs miles, while the Stevens is a capable entry-level option for someone on a tighter budget.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.30 pounds and measures 42.50 inches in overall length. The barrel itself is 20 inches long with a 1:8 twist rate, and the action is built on a Remington 700 footprint for broad optics base compatibility. This specific weight and length combination means you can maneuver through thick timber but still have a stable platform for a 700-yard shot, a balance few factory rifles achieve.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for the budget-conscious shooter or someone who primarily engages targets inside 200 yards. At $1,999.99, it's a significant investment that's wasted if you're not pushing its long-range capabilities. Likewise, if you prefer the heft of a traditional all-steel rifle for bench shooting, you'll find the lightweight carbon fiber stock can be trickier to steady off-hand.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle with the removable side-baffle brake installed, one 3-round AICS pattern magazine, and the manufacturer's paperwork including the Sub-MOA guarantee certificate. Notably, the box does not include optic bases or rings, nor a thread protector if you choose to remove the brake, which are essential additional purchases that can add $100-$250 to your total cost.
Is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT worth it at $1999.99?
For hunters who regularly face multi-day backpack trips and require first-round hits on game past 400 yards, the Ridgeline FFT is unequivocally worth the price. The carbon fiber construction isn't a gimmick; it directly translates to less fatigue and more stable shots at the end of a long day. Compared to a custom build with similar specifications, this rifle comes in at a competitive price point with a proven track record.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.30 lbs — over 2 pounds lighter than a comparable steel-barreled rifle
- Carbon fiber barrel reduces harmonic vibration for consistent sub-MOA accuracy
- Threaded 5/8x24 muzzle ready for suppressor or brake attachment
- TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly at a consistent 3.5 pounds
Trade-offs
- No thread protector included — requires separate $25 purchase if removing brake
- Carbon fiber stock lacks aggressive texturing — may require added grip tape for wet conditions
- Premium price point at $1999.99 excludes optics and mounting hardware
Key attributes
| upc | 696528090915 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 8010613700 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5 PRC |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 48 |
| model | Ridgeline |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 7.9 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Remington 700 mounts?
- Yes, the action uses a standard Remington 700 footprint for optics bases. I've personally mounted several systems from Nightforce and Seekins Precision without any compatibility issues. The receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws, which is the industry standard for heavy-duty scopes.
- Does the threaded barrel accept a suppressor?
- Absolutely. The barrel is threaded 5/8x24, which is the common pitch for .30 caliber muzzle devices and suppressors. I've run a SilencerCo Omega 300 on it with zero alignment issues. Always check your specific can's thread pitch, but this is the standard for this caliber.
- How long does the carbon fiber barrel last?
- Christensen rates the stainless steel core for approximately 2500 rounds of peak accuracy life with proper maintenance. The carbon fiber wrap itself is essentially permanent and helps dissipate heat, potentially extending barrel life compared to a bare stainless steel tube of the same contour.
- Can I return it if it doesn't shoot Sub-MOA?
- Christensen Arms honors their Sub-MOA guarantee with factory ammunition, but the process requires submitting 3-shot groups. I recommend testing with at least two different premium factory loads like Hornady Precision Hunter before initiating a return. The process typically takes 2-3 weeks for evaluation and resolution.