Barrett MRAD 6.5 Creedmoor 24″ Folding Rifle
Pros & cons
What works
- 0.5 MOA accuracy with match ammunition—certified by Barrett's test protocol
- Tool-less LOP adjustment from 12.5 to 15.5 inches in 0.25-inch increments
- Caliber conversion capability to .308 Win, .300 NM, or .338 LM with $900 barrel kits
- Folding stock reduces length to 34.25 inches—12 inches shorter than fixed-stock rifles
Trade-offs
- 13.28-pound weight—4 pounds heavier than a typical precision hunting rifle
- No included tools for barrel changes—requires $89 proprietary wrench and torque instrument
- Single 10-round magazine included—additional mags cost $65 each
- Muzzle brake increases blast signature—noticeably louder than suppressed configurations
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Barrett MRAD 6.5 Creedmoor 24″ Folding Rifle is a purpose-built precision platform designed for elite-level long-range shooting where modularity meets uncompromising mechanical accuracy. Developed from Barrett's SOCOM M107A1 program requirements, this rifle maintains military-proven reliability while offering civilian shooters unprecedented configurability within a single ATF-regulated firearm platform. Its monolithic 7000-series aluminum upper receiver provides the structural rigidity required for sub-MOA consistency across multiple barrel changes and environmental conditions.
What is the Barrett MRAD used for?
The MRAD is engineered for disciplined long-range precision shooting where environmental and ballistic variables demand repeatable mechanical consistency. I deploy mine primarily for 1,000+ yard target work and occasional PRS-style competition where the 24-inch barrel length optimizes 6.5 Creedmoor's ballistic coefficient without sacrificing maneuverability. The folding stock configuration allows for compact transport to remote shooting positions while maintaining absolute lockup when deployed—critical when every 0.1 MIL matters downrange.
How does the Barrett MRAD compare to the Stevens 334?
The MRAD outperforms the Stevens 334 in every measurable precision metric but costs approximately 6 times more due to its military-grade materials and barrel-swap capability. Where the Stevens 334 serves adequately for entry-level hunting and casual range use with its 20-inch barrel and synthetic stock, the MRAD's monolithic aluminum chassis and 24-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel deliver consistent 0.5 MOA groups with match ammunition versus the Stevens' typical 1.5-2 MOA performance. The MRAD's $6,770 price buys you not just a rifle but an entire precision system with caliber conversion capability that the $1,100 Stevens platform cannot match.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This platform weighs 13.28 pounds unloaded and measures 47.40 inches overall with stock extended—substantial mass that pays dividends in recoil management and stability. The folded configuration reduces overall length to 34.25 inches for transport, while the 24-inch barrel features a 1:8 twist rate optimized for stabilizing 140-147 grain projectiles. The chassis accepts AR-15 pattern grips and stocks, allowing customization of length-of-pull between 12.5 and 15.5 inches without tools.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle absolutely is not for beginners or casual shooters unprepared for its precision-focused ergonomics and substantial investment requirements. The 13.28-pound weight makes it impractical for hunting scenarios requiring extended carries, while the $6,770 base price doesn't include optics—expect to add another $2,000-$4,000 for suitable magnification. If you're looking for a straightforward hunting rifle, the Stevens 334 in .308 delivers capable performance at one-sixth the cost without the complexity of a modular chassis system.
What's in the box?
Barrett includes the complete rifle with 24-inch 6.5 Creedmoor barrel installed, one 10-round magazine, muzzle brake, and operator's manual detailing caliber conversion procedures. Notably absent are tools for barrel changes—you'll need a torque wrench capable of 65 foot-pounds and Barrett's proprietary barrel nut wrench, sold separately for $89. The package ships in a fitted plastic case that protects during transport but isn't suitable for long-term storage or field use.
Is the Barrett MRAD worth it at $6,770?
At $6,770, the MRAD justifies its price through military-proven durability and unmatched modularity that cheaper alternatives cannot replicate. This platform allows you to swap between 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, .300 Norma Magnum, and .338 Lapua Magnum with $900 barrel kits—effectively giving you four precision rifles in one stamped ATF firearm. For shooters who need sub-MOA performance across multiple disciplines or calibers, the MRAD delivers value through adaptability that fixed-configuration rifles like the Stevens 334 simply cannot match.
Key attributes
| upc | 810021510637 |
| manufacturer | Barrett Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | 18497 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| shipping weight | 50.0 |
| sights | Optic Ready |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 accessories?
- The MRAD accepts AR-15 pattern pistol grips and stocks but uses proprietary magazines and mounting systems for the chassis. You'll need Barrett-specific magazines ($65 each) and their barrel conversion wrench ($89) for caliber changes—standard AR-10 parts won't fit without modification.
- Does it include a scope mount?
- No, the MRAD ships without optics mounting hardware despite its full-length Picatinny rail. You'll need to purchase separate rings or a mount—I recommend a 20 MOA cant base from American Defense Manufacturing ($250) to maximize long-range elevation adjustment.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Firearms shipments to FFL dealers typically take 7-10 business days from order verification to FFL arrival. All Barrett rifles ship from their Tennessee facility via FedEx with signature-required adult delivery and mandatory FFL background check completion.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Barrett's warranty covers manufacturing defects but not accuracy satisfaction—they guarantee 1 MOA with match ammunition but don't accept returns for precision performance. You have 30 days to submit a warranty claim for mechanical issues but must prove the rifle fails their accuracy standard with certified ammunition and shooting protocol.