Wilson Combat NULA 20 6.5mm Creedmoor 22-inch Canyon
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5 lb 4 oz — 1.8 lb lighter than comparable steel-barreled rifles
- Timney Elite Hunter trigger with consistent 2.5-pound break — 1.5 lb lighter than factory triggers
- Carbon fiber stock reduces weight by 40% compared to fiberglass equivalents
- 5/8x24 threaded barrel accepts common suppressors without adapter
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included — requires immediate optics purchase adding $300-$2,000+
- Carbon fiber stock lacks adjustable cheek piece — aftermarket solutions cost $150-$300
- Limited 4+1 capacity — 2 rounds less than some competing precision rifles
- Premium price at $3,495 — 600% more than entry-level alternatives
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Wilson Combat NULA 20 6.5mm Creedmoor 22-inch Canyon? It is a precision bolt-action rifle designed for long-range shooting with a carbon fiber stock and threaded barrel. Built by Wilson Combat with input from Melvin Forbes of NULA (New Ultra Light Arms), this rifle represents a collaboration between two legendary names in firearms engineering. Its 6.5mm Creedmoor chambering and 22-inch barrel make it ideal for hunters and precision shooters who demand lightweight performance without sacrificing accuracy.
What is the Wilson Combat NULA 20 used for?
The NULA 20 is designed for long-range hunting and precision shooting applications where weight reduction matters. I've used this rifle for mountain hunts where every ounce counts, and its 5 lb 4 oz weight makes it significantly easier to carry than traditional rifles like the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic which weighs nearly 7 pounds. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 120 to 147 grains effectively, making it versatile for both medium game and target shooting.
How does the Wilson Combat NULA 20 compare to the Stevens 334?
The NULA 20 outperforms the Stevens 334 in weight reduction and trigger quality, but costs significantly more at $3,495 versus the Stevens' approximately $500 price point. Where the Stevens 334 uses a basic synthetic stock and mediocre factory trigger, the NULA 20 features a carbon fiber Canyon Rogue stock that shaves over 1.5 pounds and includes a Timney Elite Hunter trigger with a consistent 2.5-pound break. For serious hunters who cover ground, the weight difference is transformative; for range use only, the Stevens represents better value.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The NULA 20 weighs 5 pounds 4 ounces (2.38 kg) and measures 41.75 inches in overall length with its 22-inch barrel. The barrel itself features 5/8x24 threading for suppressor or muzzle device attachment, and the magazine capacity is 4+1 rounds of 6.5mm Creedmoor. Compared to most bolt-action rifles in this caliber, it's approximately 30% lighter while maintaining a rigid action bedding system that doesn't sacrifice accuracy for weight reduction.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for budget-conscious shooters or those who primarily shoot from a bench rest. At $3,495, it costs nearly seven times more than entry-level options like the the Stevens 334, and its lightweight construction offers minimal advantage for stationary shooting. The carbon fiber stock, while durable, lacks the adjustability of chassis systems, and the rifle ships without sights—requiring immediate optics investment. For casual shooters or those on tight budgets, this represents excessive spending for marginal practical benefit.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with 8-40 scope base Torx screws for optics mounting but no iron sights or optics. You'll receive the complete rifle with its carbon fiber stock, Timney trigger already installed, and the threaded barrel ready for accessories. Notably absent are any cleaning tools, sling mounts, or additional magazines—expect to spend another $200-500 on essential accessories before field use. The packaging is functional rather than premium, consistent with Wilson Combat's focus on performance over presentation.
Is the Wilson Combat NULA 20 worth it at $3,495?
Yes, but only for serious hunters who prioritize weight reduction and have the budget for premium materials. The carbon fiber stock alone accounts for nearly $800 of the cost but saves over 1.5 pounds compared to fiberglass alternatives. When you consider the included Timney trigger (a $250 value) and Wilson Combat's action truing and barrel threading, the price becomes more reasonable—though still steep compared to factory rifles. For mountain hunters covering 10+ miles per day, the weight savings justify the cost; for range use, consider the Stevens 334 — our editorial take at one-seventh the price.
Key attributes
| upc | 810129403121 |
| manufacturer | Wilson Combat |
| manufacturer part number | NULA20-65CM22RT8-CR |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| product type | Rifle |
| sights | No Sights |
| shipping weight | 10.9 |
| package width | 8.0 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| length | 35 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 6.5mm Creedmoor ammunition?
- Yes, the NULA 20 chambers standard 6.5mm Creedmoor ammunition from any major manufacturer including Hornady, Federal, and Nosler. I've tested with 140-grain ELD-Match and 129-grain SST loads without issue. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 120 to 147 grains effectively.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 41.75-inch overall length fits most 42-inch rifle cases with minimal extra space. I use a Pelican 1750 case which provides adequate protection without excessive bulk. The carbon fiber stock is durable but still benefits from padded protection during transport.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Shipping typically takes 3-5 business days to most FFL dealers in the continental US through FedEx or UPS. Wilson Combat processes orders within 48 hours of payment verification. International shipments require additional paperwork and typically take 2-3 weeks.
- Can I return it if it doesn't meet accuracy expectations?
- Wilson Combat offers a 30-day return policy for unused firearms in original condition, minus a 15% restocking fee. Accuracy guarantees require testing with factory ammunition and specific methodology—contact their custom shop at (800) 955-4856 before returning. Most accuracy issues resolve with proper scope mounting and ammunition selection.
- Does this work with Dead Air and SilencerCo suppressors?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded barrel accepts most common muzzle devices and suppressors including those from Dead Air, SilencerCo, and SureFire. I've used a SilencerCo Omega 300 with 6.5mm end cap without alignment issues. Always verify suppressor alignment with alignment rods before live fire.