CVA Cascade XT .450 Bushmaster 22in ODG Bolt Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the CVA Cascade XT .450 Bushmaster 22in ODG Bolt Rifle? It's a purpose-built heavy-caliber bolt-action hunting and suppressor platform designed for state-compliant use on large game. This rifle directly addresses the regulatory constraints of straight-wall cartridge zones in states like Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa. Its 22-inch fluted barrel and radial muzzle brake are engineered to manage the .450 Bushmaster's 2,240 ft-lbs of muzzle energy without excessive weight.
What is the CVA Cascade XT .450 Bushmaster used for?
This rifle is for state-regulated hunting where bottleneck cartridges are prohibited, specifically targeting whitetail deer, black bear, and feral hogs. The .450 Bushmaster cartridge qualifies as a straight-wall round in multiple Midwest states, making this rifle a legal tool for zones requiring such ammunition. Its heavy 4140 carbon steel barrel and 1:16 twist rate stabilize heavy projectiles from 200 to 300 grains for terminal performance at ranges under 250 yards.
How does the CVA Cascade XT compare to the Stevens 334 in .450 Bushmaster?
The Cascade XT provides superior recoil management and suppressor readiness compared to the basic Stevens 334 .308. While the Stevens 334 is a value-tier bolt action, the Cascade XT includes a factory-mounted radial muzzle brake and a dedicated 11/16x24 muzzle thread for direct suppressor attachment without adapters. For a hunter planning to run suppressed, the Cascade XT saves approximately $120 in gunsmithing work versus threading a standard barrel.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Cascade XT weighs 7.2 pounds unloaded, with an overall length of 41.5 inches. The 22-inch fluted barrel has a #5 contour with a 0.750-inch diameter at the muzzle, providing stiffness without turning the rifle into an 8.5-pound club. This weight distribution balances well when paired with an optic like a 3-9x40mm scope, keeping a complete hunting rig under 9 pounds for carry in dense timber.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is a poor choice for a first-time shooter or someone seeking a low-recoil target rifle. The .450 Bushmaster generates significant recoil even with the muzzle brake; it’s not a .223 plinker. Furthermore, if you hunt in a state permitting bottleneck cartridges like .308 Winchester, a standard short-action rifle like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win offers flatter trajectories and lower ammunition cost with similar game-taking capability inside 300 yards.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle, a one-piece Picatinny scope rail pre-installed, a single 4-round steel detachable magazine, the factory radial muzzle brake, and the necessary torx wrench for adjusting the adjustable cheek riser (12mm hex size). CVA does not include a thread protector in this configuration, as the muzzle brake is considered the primary muzzle device. Expect to purchase a thread protector separately if you intend to run the rifle suppressed and want to protect threads during transport.
Is the CVA Cascade XT worth it at $830.99?
Yes, for a hunter needing a state-compliant, suppressor-ready heavy-caliber platform. At this price point, you avoid the $150-$250 premium of brands like Ruger or Browning for their straight-wall offerings, while still getting a Cerakote-finished metalwork, a threaded heavy barrel, and an adjustable stock. The investment is justified if you hunt in a straight-wall zone and value the mechanical flexibility to add a suppressor later without additional gunsmithing costs.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory-threaded 11/16x24 muzzle saves $120+ in gunsmithing costs for suppressor mounting.
- Adjustable length of pull accommodates shooters from 5'6" to 6'4" without aftermarket parts.
- Radial muzzle brake reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30-40% over a plain muzzle.
- Cerakote Graphite Black finish provides 500+ hours of salt-spray corrosion resistance.
Trade-offs
- No included thread protector; requires a separate $15-25 purchase if running suppressed.
- Proprietary magazine system limits aftermarket options compared to AICS-pattern rifles.
- OD Green SoftTouch stock shows wear and cleaning solvent discoloration faster than textured polymer.
- Two-position safety lacks a bolt-lock intermediate position for controlled round feeding manipulation.
Key attributes
| upc | 043125239856 |
| manufacturer | Connecticut Valley Arms / CVA |
| manufacturer part number | CR3985G |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .450 Bushmaster |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 50 |
| model | Cascade XT |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 8.4 |
| sights | No |
| number of magazines | 1 2 rd. |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 9.0 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threading compatible with .458 Socom or .45-70 suppressors?
- No, it is not directly compatible. The Cascade XT uses an 11/16x24 thread pitch, which is a standard .450 Bushmaster thread. Most .458 Socom and .45-70 suppressors use a larger 5/8x24 or 11/16x24 thread but require verification of bore diameter. The .450 Bushmaster projectile is .452 inches; you must ensure your suppressor's bore is at least .458 inches to avoid a catastrophic baffle strike. Always confirm with your suppressor manufacturer (e.g., SilencerCo, Dead Air) before mounting.
- Does the muzzle brake accept a suppressor mount like a Dead Air Keymount?
- No, the factory radial muzzle brake is not a quick-detach (QD) suppressor mount. It is a fixed, direct-thread brake. To mount a suppressor with a QD system, you must remove the factory brake and install a compatible muzzle device from your suppressor's ecosystem, such as a Dead Air Keymo brake or a SilencerCo ASR flash hider. This requires the use of a vise, barrel clamp, and a torque wrench set to 25-30 ft-lbs to ensure proper installation and alignment.
- How long does it take to receive the rifle after ordering?
- If the rifle is in stock and shipped to an FFL holder, transit time is typically 3-7 business days via FedEx or UPS. However, you must account for your selected FFL's processing time for background checks and transfer paperwork, which can add 24-72 hours. Always contact your chosen FFL for their specific transfer procedures and fees before placing your order through Ironclad Armory.
- Can this rifle be shipped to California or New York?
- No, this specific configuration cannot be shipped directly to California or New York due to state-specific firearm regulations. The adjustable stock and detachable magazine may classify it as a non-compliant feature in those jurisdictions. Ironclad Armory will only ship firearms to FFL holders in states where the configuration is legal; you must consult your local FFL regarding potential modification services (e.g., stock pinning, magazine lock installation) to achieve compliance before purchase.
- What is the magazine capacity and availability?
- The rifle includes one 4-round steel detachable magazine. Additional factory magazines (CVA Part # 4011502) are typically available for purchase, holding 4 rounds of .450 Bushmaster. Aftermarket options from companies like Magpul (in their AICS pattern) do not currently exist for .450 Bushmaster in this proprietary CVA bottom metal. Plan to source spare magazines directly from CVA or authorized parts distributors.
- Is the optic base compatible with Weaver or Picatinny rings?
- Yes, the included one-piece rail is machined to MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny specifications. It accepts any standard Picatinny or Weaver-style ring (Weaver rings often fit Picatinny rails with slight play). The rail is secured with four 8-40 screws torqued to 18 in-lbs at the factory. I recommend using a 1-inch or 30mm ring set from a reputable manufacturer like Warne, Leupold, or Vortex for secure optic mounting.