Fierce Firearms CT Rival XP 7mm SAUM 22″ C3 Carbon
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Fierce Firearms CT Rival XP 7mm SAUM 22" C3 Carbon is a lightweight precision bolt-action rifle built around advanced carbon fiber and titanium components for long-range hunting and target shooting. This rifle combines Fierce's proprietary C3 Carbon barrel technology with a titanium dual-lug action and fully adjustable stock system designed for shooters who demand sub-MOA accuracy without punishing weight penalties.
What is the CT Rival XP used for?
The CT Rival XP excels as a dedicated long-range hunting rifle capable of consistent sub-MOA groups at 400+ yards. I've found it particularly effective for mountain hunting applications where every ounce matters, with the 7mm SAUM cartridge providing excellent ballistics for elk and mule deer. The 22-inch barrel length balances compact handling with the velocity needed for ethical shots beyond typical hunting ranges.
How does the CT Rival XP compare to the Stevens 334?
The CT Rival XP significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 in both weight reduction and precision capabilities, at approximately seven times the price point. Where the Stevens 334 serves as a reliable entry-level hunting rifle weighing 7.3 pounds, the CT Rival XP drops to just 5.8 pounds while maintaining match-grade accuracy that the factory Stevens platform cannot match. For serious hunters covering significant backcountry terrain, the CT Rival XP's carbon fiber construction and titanium action justify the premium.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The complete rifle weighs 5.8 pounds with an overall length of 41.5 inches from buttpad to muzzle brake. The 22-inch C3 carbon barrel features a 1:8.5 twist rate optimized for heavier 7mm projectiles, while the titanium action contributes to the exceptional weight reduction without sacrificing structural integrity. The adjustable stock accommodates lengths of pull from 13.5 to 14.5 inches to fit most adult shooters.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for budget-conscious shooters or those who primarily engage targets under 200 yards. At $2,750, it represents a significant investment that casual hunters might struggle to justify when alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester cost under $400. The 7mm SAUM cartridge also requires handloading for optimal performance, adding another barrier for shooters unwilling to develop custom loads.
What's in the box?
Each rifle ships with the radial titanium muzzle brake installed, one 3-round detachable magazine, and basic documentation. Fierce does not include scope bases or rings, requiring an additional $75-150 investment for proper optic mounting. The box dimensions measure 46x12x6 inches with 8 pounds total shipping weight including packaging materials and documentation.
Is the CT Rival XP worth it at $2,750?
For serious mountain hunters and precision shooters who regularly engage game beyond 300 yards, the CT Rival XP justifies its price through unmatched weight savings and guaranteed accuracy. The combination of titanium action and carbon fiber barrel provides a 1.5-pound weight advantage over comparable steel-barreled precision rifles while maintaining sub-MOA performance. If your hunting involves significant elevation gain or you compete in lightweight precision rifle matches, this platform delivers measurable advantages that cheaper alternatives cannot match.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.8 pounds — 1.5 pounds lighter than comparable steel-barreled precision rifles
- Guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy with 0.75 MOA factory specification
- Titanium action reduces weight by 35% versus steel while maintaining strength
- Adjustable comb and length of pull accommodate 95% of adult shooters
Trade-offs
- 7mm SAUM ammunition costs $75-95 per box versus $45 for .308 Winchester
- No included scope bases require $75-150 additional mounting investment
- Carbon barrel requires specific cleaning procedures to avoid carbon fiber damage
- Titanium muzzle brake increases overall length by 2 inches for transport
Key attributes
| upc | 853418920442 |
| manufacturer | Fierce Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | FCTRXP7SAUM22BBO |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 7mm SAUM |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| safety | Two-Position |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 7mm Remington Magnum ammunition?
- No, the 7mm SAUM chamber requires specifically headspaced 7mm Short Action Ultra Mag ammunition that is not interchangeable with 7mm Remington Magnum. Federal Premium and Nosler both produce factory loads, but optimal performance requires handloaded cartridges tailored to your rifle's chamber dimensions.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- The 41.5-inch overall length requires a 44-inch or larger rifle case for transportation. I recommend the Plano All-Weather 44-inch case for airline travel compliance, though the muzzle brake adds approximately 2 inches that may require removal for some hard cases with fixed interior dimensions.
- How long does shipping take?
- Direct shipments from Ironclad Armory typically process within 3 business days with 7-10 day transit time to continental US destinations. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery, and we coordinate directly with your chosen FFL for transfer completion.
- Can I return it if it doesn't shoot accurately?
- Fierce Firearms guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with factory match ammunition, and we honor their 0.75 MOA 3-shot group guarantee within 30 days of purchase. If your rifle fails to meet specification with at least two different premium ammunition types, we facilitate return and replacement through Fierce's warranty department, typically resolved within 14 business days.
- Does this work with Harris bipods?
- Yes, the stock features a standard sling swivel stud compatible with Harris S-BRM bipods and most aftermarket accessories. The carbon fiber forend maintains rigidity under bipod loading, though I recommend using a bipod rail adapter for extended precision shooting sessions to distribute pressure more evenly across the carbon surface.