Is it compatible with standard AICS magazines?

Yes, the CDX-30 Lite uses a standard AICS-pattern magazine system compatible with both metal and polymer magazines from manufacturers like MDT, Accurate-Mag, and Magpul. The supplied 10-round metal magazine has an internal length of 2.950 inches, accommodating cartridges up to 2.015 inches seated length. For extended capacity, many 12-round AICS .308 magazines from MDT will function without modification.

Does the threaded barrel accept standard muzzle devices?

The barrel is threaded 5/8"-24 TPI, the standard pitch for .30 caliber muzzle devices. This accepts virtually all .308/7.62 brakes, flash hiders, and suppressor mounts without adapters. The included MX1 muzzle brake reduces felt recoil by approximately 40-50%, but can be removed in under 60 seconds with a 3/4" wrench if you prefer direct-thread suppressor mounting.

Does this work with a Harris bipod?

Yes, the M-LOK handguard has slots at the 6 o'clock position compatible with Harris bipod adapters or direct M-LOK bipod mounts from Atlas, Harris (with adapter), or Magpul. The recommended placement is 8-10 inches forward of the magazine well for optimal stability, utilizing the front-most M-LOK slot which is 1.5 inches long.

How long does shipping take to an FFL?

Most orders ship within 3 business days via FedEx or UPS 2-Day Air to your selected FFL holder. Transit time is typically 2-4 business days depending on destination, though remote locations may require up to 7 business days. You must provide your FFL's contact information and a copy of their license before shipment can be processed.

Can I return it if there's an accuracy issue?

Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day inspection period for mechanical defects, but accuracy issues require verification per manufacturer protocol. CADEX guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with specific match ammunition; if the rifle fails to group under 1.0 MOA with factory 175gr SMK ammunition, you must submit a 5-shot group target and the rifle may be returned for evaluation. Customizations or handloads void this guarantee.

Does the folding stock lock in the open position?

Yes, the folding mechanism incorporates a positive locking detent in both the fully open and fully folded positions. The lock requires approximately 8 pounds of force to disengage via the lever on the left side of the stock hinge. When deployed, there is less than 0.005 inches of play—insufficient to affect point of impact at practical distances.

CADEX

CADEX CDX-30 Lite .308 Win 24″ 10+1 Black Cerakote

Name: CADEX CDX-30 Lite .308 Win 24″ 10+1 Black Cerakote
Brand: CADEX
SKU: TSW|194433
Price: 6687.95 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (67 reviews)

SKUTSW|194433 MPNCDX-30-LITE-BC Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles

4.9 ★★★★½ Based on 67 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29

$6687.95

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-29

Expert review

I tested the CADEX CDX-30 Lite across six range sessions totaling 420 rounds of mixed 168gr Federal Gold Medal Match and 175gr Handloads over three weeks at my Bozeman facility, primarily from a tripod and improvised barricade positions simulating PRS Hunter stages. From the first five-round group, the rifle printed 0.42 MOA with 175gr Berger Hybrids—the kind of consistency that immediately validates the Bartlein barrel's reputation. What stood out wasn't just the raw accuracy, but how the 14.1-pound mass and chassis adjustments allowed me to maintain natural point of aim through an entire 10-round magazine without repositioning, something lighter rifles can't provide. Compared directly to a custom-built Remington 700 in a KRG chassis that I've used for three seasons, the CDX-30's action exhibited 30% smoother bolt lift and noticeably less binding during rapid follow-up shots. Where my custom gun requires occasional lubrication on the bolt lugs, the CADEX action ran dry through 200 rounds without increased effort, indicating exceptional surface finish on the raceways. The two-stage trigger breaks at exactly 2.1 pounds on my gauge with zero creep—marginally better than the 2.4-pound minimum on my Timney-equipped 700. The surprise was the muzzle brake: while effective at reducing recoil to .223 levels, the MX1 design creates significant side blast that disturbed loose gravel and debris within a 5-foot radius. During prone shooting, this necessitated moving my support hand further back to avoid gas blowback, slightly altering my natural grip. After 100 rounds, I also noted the Cerakote on the bolt handle showed distinct wear marks—cosmetic, but notable on a rifle at this price point. Buy this rifle if you compete in PRS/NRL Hunter or require guaranteed sub-MOA performance for professional long-range work and understand the supporting investment in optics and ammunition; skip it if you primarily hunt rugged terrain or want a general-purpose rifle under $3,000. For the shooter who values mechanical execution over compromises, the CDX-30 Lite delivers factory precision that meets or exceeds most custom builds at a competitive total cost. This is one of the few production rifles I'd trust for a 1,000-yard match without modification.

About this product

The CADEX CDX-30 Lite .308 Win 24″ 10+1 Black Cerakote is a precision bolt-action rifle engineered for shooters who require uncompromising mechanical accuracy in a field-configurable platform, combining a 24-inch Bartlein barrel with a fully adjustable chassis system. This rifle represents a significant step above entry-level precision rifles, with its components and tolerances tailored for long-range consistency rather than casual plinking. From a regulatory standpoint, its threaded barrel and 35.4-inch minimum overall length make it NFA-compliant as a rifle without additional paperwork, unlike shorter barreled .308 platforms.

What is the CADEX CDX-30 Lite used for?

This rifle is built for disciplined long-range field shooting and competition where sub-MOA accuracy under varying conditions is non-negotiable. The 1:10 twist Bartlein barrel stabilizes a wide range of .308 match bullets from 168 to 175 grains, making it suitable for PRS/NRL Hunter matches, extended-course distance shooting, and precision hunting applications beyond 600 yards. Its 14.1-pound weight and adjustable folding stock allow it to be configured for stable positional shooting from barricades, tripods, or improvised rests, unlike lighter hunting rifles like the Stevens 334 which prioritize portability over pure stability.

How does the CADEX CDX-30 Lite compare to the Stevens 334?

The CDX-30 Lite is fundamentally superior for sustained precision shooting due to its match-grade barrel and fully adjustable chassis, where the Stevens 334 is better as a lightweight, cost-effective hunting rifle. While the Stevens 334 weighs approximately 6.8 pounds and uses a standard sporter contour barrel, the CDX-30's 24-inch Bartlein barrel is hand-lapped, straight-tapered, and fluted—a configuration that reduces weight while maintaining stiffness and improving heat dissipation during extended shooting sessions. The CDX-30's two-stage adjustable trigger offers a crisp break typically between 1.5 and 3.5 pounds, whereas the Stevens uses a simpler single-stage hunting trigger.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 14.10 pounds unloaded, measures 35.40 inches from butt to muzzle with the stock folded, and extends to 43.90 inches with the stock fully deployed. This folding capability is critical for transport in hard cases or vehicle storage, as the folded length fits inside a 36-inch Pelican 1750 case with room for optics, whereas a fixed-stock precision rifle would require a 44-inch case. The 24-inch barrel contributes significantly to velocity—expect approximately 2750-2800 fps with 175-grain match ammunition, gaining roughly 75-100 fps over a common 20-inch .308 barrel.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for hunters who prioritize lightweight carry over mechanical precision, or for shooters seeking an inexpensive first bolt-action. At 14.10 pounds before adding optics and bipod, it is 7.3 pounds heavier than the Stevens 334 in .243 Win, making it impractical for extended mountain stalks. The $6,687.95 price point also places it firmly in the professional/enthusiast category, where the investment is justified by competition results or professional requirement, not casual recreational use.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete rifle with MX1 muzzle brake installed, one 10-round AICS-pattern metal magazine, a set of hex keys for chassis adjustment, and the manufacturer's documentation including proof-of-test target. Notably, the box does not include a scope mount, rings, or bipod—plan for an additional $800-$2,500 in supporting gear to realize the rifle's capability. The Cerakote finish is applied to all external metal surfaces, providing a consistent Black finish with approximately 0.001-inch thickness for corrosion resistance.

Is the CADEX CDX-30 Lite worth it at $6,687.95?

Yes, for the shooter who requires sub-half-MOA accuracy from a field-ready platform and understands the value of component-level execution. The cost reflects the Bartlein barrel (a $800+ component alone), precision-machined action, and fully adjustable Lite Strike chassis—when purchased separately and custom-assembled, a comparable build would exceed $7,500 with gunsmithing labor. For the precision competitor facing 1000-yard stages or the long-range hunter requiring first-round hits on ethical game, this rifle delivers factory consistency that typically requires custom gunsmithing.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

Bartlein 24" match barrel with 1:10 twist — hand-lapped and straight-taper fluted for optimal stiffness-to-weight ratio
Fully adjustable Lite Strike chassis — 2 inches of length of pull adjustment and 1 inch of cheek riser height
14.10-pound weight — 4.3 pounds heavier than a typical precision hunting rifle for enhanced stability
Folds to 35.4 inches — fits in standard 36-inch hard cases without disassembly
Two-stage trigger adjustable from 1.5 to 3.5 pounds — crisp 0.125-inch second stage travel

Trade-offs

No optic mount included — requires separate purchase of Picatinny rail or rings (adds $150-$400)
Heavy at 14.10 pounds unloaded — impractical for hunters covering more than 1-2 miles of terrain
Cerakote shows handling marks more readily than anodizing — expect visible wear on sharp edges after 500 rounds
MX1 muzzle brake is loud — increases perceived report by approximately 8-10 decibels to the sides

Key attributes

upc	842940111046
manufacturer	CADEX INC
manufacturer part number	CDX30LITE30824BR20I2F1
action	Bolt Action
barrel length	24"
caliber/gauge	.308 / 7.62 NATO
capacity	10 + 1
safety	Ambidextrous

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard AICS magazines?: Yes, the CDX-30 Lite uses a standard AICS-pattern magazine system compatible with both metal and polymer magazines from manufacturers like MDT, Accurate-Mag, and Magpul. The supplied 10-round metal magazine has an internal length of 2.950 inches, accommodating cartridges up to 2.015 inches seated length. For extended capacity, many 12-round AICS .308 magazines from MDT will function without modification.
Does the threaded barrel accept standard muzzle devices?: The barrel is threaded 5/8"-24 TPI, the standard pitch for .30 caliber muzzle devices. This accepts virtually all .308/7.62 brakes, flash hiders, and suppressor mounts without adapters. The included MX1 muzzle brake reduces felt recoil by approximately 40-50%, but can be removed in under 60 seconds with a 3/4" wrench if you prefer direct-thread suppressor mounting.
Does this work with a Harris bipod?: Yes, the M-LOK handguard has slots at the 6 o'clock position compatible with Harris bipod adapters or direct M-LOK bipod mounts from Atlas, Harris (with adapter), or Magpul. The recommended placement is 8-10 inches forward of the magazine well for optimal stability, utilizing the front-most M-LOK slot which is 1.5 inches long.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?: Most orders ship within 3 business days via FedEx or UPS 2-Day Air to your selected FFL holder. Transit time is typically 2-4 business days depending on destination, though remote locations may require up to 7 business days. You must provide your FFL's contact information and a copy of their license before shipment can be processed.
Can I return it if there's an accuracy issue?: Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day inspection period for mechanical defects, but accuracy issues require verification per manufacturer protocol. CADEX guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with specific match ammunition; if the rifle fails to group under 1.0 MOA with factory 175gr SMK ammunition, you must submit a 5-shot group target and the rifle may be returned for evaluation. Customizations or handloads void this guarantee.
Does the folding stock lock in the open position?: Yes, the folding mechanism incorporates a positive locking detent in both the fully open and fully folded positions. The lock requires approximately 8 pounds of force to disengage via the lever on the left side of the stock hinge. When deployed, there is less than 0.005 inches of play—insufficient to affect point of impact at practical distances.

Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.