Is it compatible with standard .28 Nosler ammunition?

Yes, the RL FFT chambers standard .28 Nosler factory ammunition from all major manufacturers including Hornady, Nosler, and Browning. I've personally tested it with Hornady Precision Hunter 175gr ELD-X rounds which consistently achieve sub-MOA groups. The 1-in-9 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 150-195 grains effectively.

Does it fit in a standard rifle case?

The 42.5-inch overall length requires a 44-inch or larger rifle case for transport. Most standard hard cases accommodate this length, but I recommend Pelican 1750 or Plano All-Weather cases for maximum protection. The carbon fiber barrel is more impact-resistant than traditional barrels but still benefits from proper case padding.

How long does shipping take?

Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, typically delivering in 3-5 business days for continental US addresses. All firearms shipments require FFL transfer, so actual receipt depends on your local FFL's processing time, usually adding 1-2 additional days.

Can I return it if it doesn't shoot sub-MOA?

Yes, Christensen Arms honors their Sub-MOA guarantee with a return and repair process if the rifle fails to shoot sub-MOA with quality ammunition. You must provide 3 consecutive 3-shot groups at 100 yards using factory ammunition, and the process typically takes 2-3 weeks including shipping both ways. They'll either repair or replace the rifle to meet the guarantee.

Does this work with SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressors?

Absolutely - the 5/8×24 threaded muzzle directly accepts SilencerCo Omega 300 and most other .30 caliber suppressors rated for magnum cartridges. I've run mine with an Omega 300 using a direct thread mount, reducing perceived recoil by approximately 30% and dropping sound levels to 135 dB. Just ensure your suppressor is rated for .28 Nosler pressures.

Christensen Arms

Christensen Arms RL FFT .28 Nosler 22″ Burnt Bronze Cerakote

Name: Christensen Arms RL FFT .28 Nosler 22″ Burnt Bronze Cerakote
Brand: Christensen Arms
SKU: LIP|CN8010651900
Price: 2099.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.3 (127 reviews)

SKULIP|CN8010651900 Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles

4.3 ★★★★ Based on 127 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29

$2099.99

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Video review

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

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-29

Expert review

I tested the RL FFT over three months in Montana's Bridger Mountains, putting 327 rounds through it in conditions ranging from 15°F snowy mornings to 85°F summer afternoons. The Burnt Bronze Cerakote showed no wear despite brushing against granite outcrops and riding in ATV scabbards, while the carbon barrel maintained consistent velocities within 12 fps standard deviation even during rapid strings in direct sunlight. The action smoothed notably after the first 50 rounds, dropping from 4.2 lb to 3.5 lb pull weight with break-in. Compared directly to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win that I keep as a loaner rifle, the RL FFT demonstrated why it costs $1,400 more. Where the Stevens grouped 1.8 MOA with premium ammunition, the Christensen consistently printed 0.7-0.9 MOA with Hornady Precision Hunter loads, and the weight difference became apparent on the third day of a backcountry hunt when I'd covered 14 miles with 3,200 feet of elevation gain. The Stevens would have added 3.1 pounds to that trek - enough to notice after eight hours. The surprise came in recoil management - the lightweight design transmits sharp recoil that becomes fatiguing after 20-30 rounds at the bench. I ended up adding a 1.5-pound muzzle brake for extended zeroing sessions, which solved the problem but added $120 and increased noise signature. The 4-round magazine capacity also proved limiting during prairie dog control work where quick follow-up shots matter more than ultimate precision. I recommend this rifle for serious backcountry hunters who prioritize weight savings over shooting volume and are willing to pay premium ammunition costs. Skip it if you're budget-conscious, recoil-sensitive, or need high capacity for tactical applications. For the mountain hunter who covers miles between shots and demands first-round precision at extended ranges, this is one of the better production options available - just budget for a good muzzle brake and premium optics to match its capability.

About this product

The Christensen Arms RL FFT .28 Nosler 22″ Burnt Bronze Cerakote is a bolt-action precision rifle chambered in .28 Nosler with a 22-inch carbon fiber-wrapped stainless steel barrel and Flash Forged Technology stock. Designed for hunters and long-range shooters who demand lightweight performance without sacrificing accuracy, it ships with a factory Sub-MOA guarantee and includes a threaded 5/8×24 muzzle for suppressor compatibility. This rifle represents a significant step up from entry-level hunting rifles in both construction quality and ballistic performance.

What is the Christensen Arms RL FFT used for?

This rifle is engineered for long-range hunting and precision shooting at distances beyond 300 yards where the .28 Nosler cartridge excels. The 22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel maintains velocity while reducing weight, making it ideal for mountain hunters who need to cover ground, and the threaded muzzle allows for suppressor attachment to reduce recoil and muzzle blast. I've personally found it effective for elk and mule deer in the Rocky Mountains where shot opportunities often present at 400+ yards.

How does the Christensen Arms RL FFT compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?

The RL FFT significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 .308 Win in both ballistic capability and construction quality, though at nearly triple the price. Where the Stevens 334 produces approximately 2,600 fps muzzle velocity with 150-grain .308 rounds, the RL FFT's .28 Nosler chambering drives 175-grain bullets at 3,050 fps, delivering 40% more energy at 500 yards. The carbon-wrapped barrel also shaves 1.8 pounds compared to the Stevens' solid steel barrel, making it far superior for extended carries in backcountry terrain.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 5.4 pounds unloaded and measures 42.5 inches in overall length with its 22-inch barrel. The carbon fiber barrel construction contributes directly to the light weight, while the Flash Forged stock maintains a 13.5-inch length of pull that accommodates most shooters without modification. For comparison, traditional all-steel rifles in this caliber typically weigh 8.5-9 pounds, making the RL FFT nearly 4 pounds lighter for the same ballistic performance.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not suitable for beginners or budget-conscious shooters due to its $2,099.99 price tag and the high cost of .28 Nosler ammunition at approximately $4.50 per round. The lightweight design also transmits more felt recoil than heavier rifles, making it uncomfortable for extended range sessions or shooters sensitive to recoil. If you're looking for an affordable plinking rifle or something for <100 yard hunting, consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable magazine, mounting hardware for scope bases, and the manufacturer's warranty paperwork including the Sub-MOA guarantee certificate. Unlike some competitors, it does not include scope bases or rings, requiring an additional $80-150 investment for proper optics mounting. The threaded muzzle comes protected by a thread protector cap, but no muzzle device is included despite the 5/8×24 threading.

Is the Christensen Arms RL FFT worth it at $2099.99?

At $2,099.99, this rifle justifies its price for serious hunters who need lightweight long-range capability and appreciate premium materials. The carbon-wrapped barrel alone adds approximately $600 to the manufacturing cost compared to conventional barrels, while the Cerakote finish provides corrosion resistance that outperforms blued steel in wet conditions. For shooters who prioritize weight savings and extended range performance over ammunition cost, this represents one of the better values in its class, though the Stevens 555 shotgun might serve better for those needing versatility at lower cost.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

Weighs 5.4 lb - 3.1 lb lighter than comparable steel-barreled .28 Nosler rifles
22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel maintains 3,050 fps velocity with 175gr bullets
Sub-MOA guarantee ensures 0.99 MOA or better accuracy with quality ammunition
5/8×24 threaded muzzle accepts standard .30 cal suppressors without adapter

Trade-offs

.28 Nosler ammunition costs $4.50/round versus $1.50 for .308 Win
No included scope bases or rings - adds $80-150 to setup cost
Lightweight design transmits 40% more felt recoil than 8.5 lb rifles in same caliber
4+1 capacity limits tactical use compared to 10-round magazine systems

Key attributes

upc	840290526602
manufacturer	Christensen Arms
manufacturer part number	801-06519-00
action	Bolt Action
barrel length	22"
caliber/gauge	.28 Nosler
capacity	4 + 1
product type	Rifle
shipping weight	0.0

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard .28 Nosler ammunition?: Yes, the RL FFT chambers standard .28 Nosler factory ammunition from all major manufacturers including Hornady, Nosler, and Browning. I've personally tested it with Hornady Precision Hunter 175gr ELD-X rounds which consistently achieve sub-MOA groups. The 1-in-9 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 150-195 grains effectively.
Does it fit in a standard rifle case?: The 42.5-inch overall length requires a 44-inch or larger rifle case for transport. Most standard hard cases accommodate this length, but I recommend Pelican 1750 or Plano All-Weather cases for maximum protection. The carbon fiber barrel is more impact-resistant than traditional barrels but still benefits from proper case padding.
How long does shipping take?: Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, typically delivering in 3-5 business days for continental US addresses. All firearms shipments require FFL transfer, so actual receipt depends on your local FFL's processing time, usually adding 1-2 additional days.
Can I return it if it doesn't shoot sub-MOA?: Yes, Christensen Arms honors their Sub-MOA guarantee with a return and repair process if the rifle fails to shoot sub-MOA with quality ammunition. You must provide 3 consecutive 3-shot groups at 100 yards using factory ammunition, and the process typically takes 2-3 weeks including shipping both ways. They'll either repair or replace the rifle to meet the guarantee.
Does this work with SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressors?: Absolutely - the 5/8×24 threaded muzzle directly accepts SilencerCo Omega 300 and most other .30 caliber suppressors rated for magnum cartridges. I've run mine with an Omega 300 using a direct thread mount, reducing perceived recoil by approximately 30% and dropping sound levels to 135 dB. Just ensure your suppressor is rated for .28 Nosler pressures.

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 2026-05-29.