Proof Research Elevation 2.0 300 PRC 22 in Carbon Fiber RH

About this product

The Proof Research Elevation 2.0 300 PRC is a bolt-action hunting rifle that pairs a carbon-fiber-wrapped, match-grade barrel with a Zermatt Arms Origin action to achieve sub-MOA accuracy while maintaining a field-ready weight. This is a purpose-built tool for long-range hunting, where every ounce and minute of angle matters. It's not a beginner's rifle, nor is it a casual plinker—this is a precision instrument for shooters who understand ballistics and terrain.

What is the Proof Research Elevation 2.0 used for?

The Elevation 2.0 is designed for long-range hunting of large North American game in mountainous or open terrain where weight savings are critical. I consider this a dedicated hunting rifle for a cartridge—the .300 PRC—that excels beyond 500 yards. It’s less about target plinking and more about an ethical, first-round shot on elk, moose, or bear where a 9-pound rifle feels heavy after ten miles.

How does the Proof Research Elevation 2.0 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win?

The Elevation 2.0 is a specialized, lightweight precision rifle, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is a more traditional, budget-conscious hunting platform. The Proof Research rifle is better at reducing weight and maintaining accuracy at extreme range, but it costs nearly three times as much as the Stevens 334 and demands premium ammunition to perform. For hunting inside 300 yards, the Stevens 334 is the more practical choice; for long-range alpine hunting, the Elevation 2.0 justifies its price.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs approximately 6.8 pounds unscoped, with a 22-inch barrel that measures 0.830 inches at the muzzle for stability with a suppressor. The overall length is 42.5 inches, and the length of pull is a standard 13.625 inches. That 6.8-pound weight—achieved through the carbon-fiber barrel and stock—is a full pound lighter than a comparable all-steel mountain rifle, which directly translates to steadier off-hand shots at the end of a long stalk.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for a first-time shooter, a budget-constrained hunter, or someone who primarily shoots at ranges under 200 yards. The .300 PRC cartridge is expensive to feed (often over $4 per round for match-grade ammo) and produces significant recoil, even with its efficient muzzle brake threading. If you’re looking for a general-purpose deer rifle for hunting from a stand, you’d be better served by a Stevens 334 in .243 Winchester.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with one 3-round AICS-pattern magazine pre-installed, a 5/8x24 thread protector for the muzzle, and Proof Research’s sub-MOA test target. I appreciate that it includes a functional magazine from the factory—some premium rifles don’t—and the test target is a legitimate factory verification, not a marketing placeholder. You’ll need to supply your own scope, mounts, rings, and ammunition, which can easily add $1,500 to the initial cost.

Is the Proof Research Elevation 2.0 worth it at $3,399?

Yes, but only for the shooter whose primary need is a durable, lightweight, and mechanically precise long-range hunting rifle. The carbon-fiber barrel mitigates point-of-impact shift during heating far better than a traditional steel barrel, which matters during a follow-up shot on moving game. At this price point, you are paying $1,200 to $1,500 for that barrel technology alone. If your priority is affordable accuracy at moderate ranges, several quality rifles under $2,000 will serve you just as well.