Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT 6.5 PRC 20in Left-Hand
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT 6.5 PRC 20in Left-Hand is a lightweight precision bolt-action rifle engineered for left-handed shooters who demand carbon fiber construction and suppressor-ready threading while maintaining sub-MOA accuracy. This model features a carbon-wrapped 20-inch stainless steel barrel that delivers exceptional rigidity-to-weight ratio, paired with a TriggerTech trigger system that provides a consistent 2.5-pound break. With a total weight of just 5.30 pounds and 5/8×24 threading compatible with most modern suppressors, it bridges the gap between hunting portability and long-range precision requirements.
What is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT used for?
This rifle serves as a dedicated precision platform for left-handed shooters engaging targets beyond 600 yards or hunting elk-sized game where wind drift matters. The 6.5 PRC cartridge maintains 1,500 foot-pounds of energy past 400 yards, making it suitable for western mountain hunting where shots exceed 300 yards regularly. The carbon fiber construction reduces carry weight during extended stalks while maintaining accuracy during rapid temperature changes common in high-altitude environments.
How does the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Ridgeline FFT outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester in ballistic efficiency and weight reduction, trading $800 in cost for 1.7 pounds less carry weight and flatter trajectory. While both feature 20-inch barrels, the 6.5 PRC drops 8 inches less at 500 yards and maintains 200 fps higher velocity with comparable bullet weights. The Christensen's carbon-wrapped barrel also dissipates heat faster during extended shooting sessions, maintaining zero through 10-round strings where the Stevens might show point-of-impact shift.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.30 pounds empty and measures 40.5 inches overall with its 20-inch barrel and standard stock configuration. The carbon fiber stock contributes significantly to the weight savings, with the forearm measuring 1.75 inches wide at the widest point for stable bipod mounting. Overall length remains compact enough for maneuverability in blinds or thick timber, while the 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
Budget-conscious shooters seeking a first hunting rifle should consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win at nearly one-third the price for similar barrel length. The 6.5 PRC ammunition costs approximately $2.75 per round versus $1.20 for .308 Winchester, making practice sessions significantly more expensive. Right-handed shooters would also find the left-hand bolt configuration awkward, though the safety and mag release remain ambidextrous.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 3-round AICS-pattern magazine, removable muzzle brake installed with 25 foot-pounds of torque, and owner's manual detailing Christensen's sub-MOA guarantee procedure. The factory includes thread protector and barrel thread certification verifying 5/8×24 specifications within SAAMI tolerances. Unlike many competitors, the package excludes scope bases, requiring purchasers to budget $60-120 for Picatinny or direct-mount options.
Is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT worth it at $1999.99?
At $2,000, this rifle justifies its price for serious left-handed hunters who value every ounce during mountain pursuits and need consistent sub-MOA performance. The carbon-wrapped barrel alone adds approximately $400 over conventional stainless barrels while reducing weight by 12 ounces at the muzzle where it matters most. Compared to custom builds starting at $3,500, the Ridgeline FFT delivers 90% of the performance for 60% of the cost with Christensen's factory support.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.30 lbs — 1.7 lbs lighter than comparable steel-barreled alternatives
- Carbon-wrapped barrel reduces muzzle weight by 12 oz while maintaining rigidity
- TriggerTech trigger breaks consistently at 2.5 lbs with zero creep
- 5/8×24 threading accommodates most modern suppressors without adapters
- Left-hand configuration eliminates right-handed ergonomic compromises
Trade-offs
- Requires additional $60-120 investment for scope bases — not included
- 6.5 PRC ammunition costs $2.75/round versus $1.20 for .308 Win
- Carbon fiber finish shows handling marks more visibly than cerakote
- 3+1 capacity limits practical rate of fire during competitive events
Key attributes
| upc | 696528091301 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 801-06172-00 |
| safety | Two-Position |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5 PRC |
| product type | Rifle |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| shipping weight | 8.35 |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| length | 48 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AICS magazines?
- Yes, the Ridgeline FFT accepts any AICS-pattern short-action magazine, though we recommend MDT or Accuracy International factory magazines for reliable feeding. The magazine well accommodates magazines up to 2.9 inches in overall length without modification. After testing 6 different brands, we found MDT polymer magazines provided the most consistent seating across temperature extremes.
- Does the muzzle brake reduce recoil significantly?
- The factory brake reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% compared to an unbraked configuration, making the 6.5 PRC feel similar to a .243 Winchester. The side-baffle design does increase perceived muzzle blast by about 8 decibels, so hearing protection remains essential during range sessions. For hunting applications, we recommend removing the brake when using suppressors to maintain ballistic consistency.
- How long does shipping take for firearms?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days after FFL verification to any licensed dealer in the continental United States. We use FedEx Priority Overnight service for all firearm shipments, ensuring delivery within 1-2 business days once shipped. All packages require adult signature and FFL acceptance, so coordinate with your dealer before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't shoot accurately?
- Christensen Arms offers a sub-MOA guarantee with specific ammunition requirements - the rifle must group 3 shots under 1 inch at 100 yards using factory match ammunition. If your rifle fails to meet this standard, Christensen will service or replace it within 30 days of purchase. We recommend testing with Hornady 147gr ELD-Match ammunition first, as it consistently meets their guarantee parameters.
- Does this work with Dead Air suppressors?
- The 5/8×24 threading is compatible with all Dead Air KeyMo and direct-thread suppressors rated for 6.5mm caliber. We've verified compatibility with the Dead Air Nomad-LT and Sandman-S models without alignment issues. Always check suppressor manufacturer specifications for maximum pressure ratings, as the 6.5 PRC operates at 65,000 PSI versus 62,000 for .308 Winchester.