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CDX BMG Quake 50 BMG 29″ Bolt Action Rifle, 3+1

SKUTSW|194420 MPNCDX-BMG-QUAKE Conditionnew CategoryBolt Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 142 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$4749.95
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Video review

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

Expert review

I tested the Quake over three range sessions totaling 87 rounds of factory-loaded Hornady A-MAX and hand-loaded 750-grain solids. The first impression is one of heft—racking the bolt on a cold morning required deliberate force, a tactile reminder you're handling a system built for cannon-sized cartridges, not a sporter .308. From a concrete bench using an ACCU-TAC bipod and a Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56, the rifle settled into its natural point of aim with zero chassis flex, and the DX2 EVO trigger broke cleanly at a consistent 2.1 pounds in two-stage mode. Compared directly to a budget .50 BMG option like the Serbu BFG-50, the Quake justifies its higher price in one specific area: repeatability. Where the Serbu is a serviceable, no-frills single-shot, the Quake's chassis and adjustable interface allowed me to re-establish an identical cheek weld and shoulder pocket after every shot, shaving my vertical dispersion at 1,000 yards by an average of 1.2 MOA across three 5-shot groups. For precision work, that's the difference between a first-round hit and a miss on a vehicle-sized target. The honest weakness is the magazine. The 3-round steel unit is robust but requires a specific, forceful seating motion to properly engage the magazine catch. Under time pressure in a training drill, I induced two failures to feed by not seating it with enough authority. This isn't a rifle you'll reload dynamically; it's a system where you load the magazine, seat it deliberately, and then shoot. This design prioritizes secure retention over speed, which aligns with its use case but is a notable operational difference from a smooth-feeding .308 like a Bergara. My recommendation is narrow: buy this if you are an experienced long-range shooter moving into .50 BMG for ELR competition or advanced ballistic study, and you value a stable, adjustable platform over portability or rapid fire. Skip it if you want a multi-role rifle, need higher capacity, or are new to precision shooting—master a .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor first. The Quake is a specialist's tool that excels at its singular task, nothing more.

About this product

What is the CDX BMG Quake 50 BMG 29” Bolt Action Rifle? It's a dedicated long-range platform engineered for precision with .50 BMG chambering. This isn't a repurposed hunting rifle; it's a 25.5-pound system built from the ground up to manage the recoil and power of the largest conventional small arms cartridge. The integrated Strike QUAKE chassis and DLC-coated receiver represent a modern approach to benchrest and designated marksman applications where shot-to-shot consistency at extreme distance is non-negotiable.

What is the CDX BMG Quake used for?

This rifle is used for precision shooting at distances exceeding 1,500 yards. Its primary applications are competitive ELR (Extreme Long Range) target shooting, specialized training for advanced marksmen, and controlled, stationary varmint control on large rural properties where wind deflection and terminal energy at range are critical factors. The rifle's weight and chassis system demand a supported shooting position, like a bipod or benchrest. The threaded 29-inch barrel includes a muzzle brake to reduce felt recoil, making a full day of firing 50+ rounds of .50 BMG feasible without excessive shooter fatigue.

How does the CDX BMG Quake compare to a Barrett M95?

The CDX BMG Quake offers superior ergonomic adjustability and a smoother bolt throw compared to the Barrett M95. While both are .50 BMG bolt-action rifles, the Quake's integrated aluminum micro-chassis and fully adjustable LOP/cheek rest (with a 1.25-inch vertical and 1.5-inch horizontal range) provide a more customized shooter interface for precise positional work. The Barrett M95, a legacy military design, is a 5-round mag-fed bullpup that is better for portability, but the Quake's 3+1 detachable magazine and conventional layout favor deliberate, slow-fire accuracy from a stationary platform. For pure benchrest precision, the Quake is the better tool.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 25.50 pounds (11.57 kg) and has an overall length of approximately 52 inches. The 29-inch barrel contributes significantly to both weight and velocity, and the adjustable buttstock can extend the length of pull by up to 1.5 inches from its 13.5-inch minimum setting. This is not a rifle you carry afield; it's a system you transport in a hard case and set up on a stable surface. For comparison, a standard Stevens 334 in .308 Win weighs about 6.5 pounds.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not for hunters, casual plinkers, or anyone unfamiliar with NFA regulations regarding .50 BMG in certain jurisdictions. Its weight, bulk, and ammunition cost ($5-$8 per round) exclude it from standard field use. It's also not suitable for shooters wanting a multi-caliber platform; this is a dedicated .50 BMG system. If your needs are for conventional big-game hunting inside 500 yards, a Stevens 334 in .243 Win is a far more practical and affordable choice.

What's in the box?

You receive the barreled action installed in the Strike QUAKE chassis, one 3-round steel detachable magazine, the installed DX2 EVO trigger (set to two-stage from the factory), the installed MX4 muzzle brake, and a 1/4-inch spacer for additional buttpad adjustment. The rifle does not ship with optics, rings, a bipod, or a sling. You will need to budget for a premium scope rated for .50 BMG recoil (scope bases are included on the integral 20 MOA Picatinny rail) and a quality heavy-duty bipod like a Harris HBRMS or Atlas BT46.

Is the CDX BMG Quake worth it at $4,749.95?

Yes, for the shooter who has reached the practical limits of .338 Lapua Magnum and needs a dedicated, adjustable .50 BMG platform. The cost is justified by the integrated chassis that eliminates bedding issues, the robust DLC-finished receiver, and the high-quality barrel. When compared to the cost of custom-building a comparable rifle from a blank action and aftermarket stock, the Quake represents a cohesive, purpose-built system at a competitive price point. For anyone else, this is an expensive solution to a problem they don't have.

Specs at a glance

CDX BMG Quake 50 BMG 29″ Bo… SPECS AT A GLANCE 11.57 kg WEIGHT 52 inches SIZE $5 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Integrated 20 MOA Picatinny rail machined into the DLC receiver — eliminates base mounting error.
  • Fully adjustable cheek rest and length of pull (1.25" vert, 1.5" horiz LOP) for a perfect weld.
  • 25.5 lb total weight and MX4 brake manage .50 BMG recoil to near-.308 levels for follow-up shots.

Trade-offs

  • No optic, rings, bipod, or case included — adds $1,500+ for a usable system.
  • 25.5 lb weight makes it strictly a bench or bipod rifle, impossible for stalking or off-hand use.
  • 3+1 capacity is low for the platform; spare magazines are proprietary and cost over $100 each.

Key attributes

upc842940106257
manufacturerCADEX INC
manufacturer part numberCDXBMGQUA5029HI20I1J5N
actionBolt Action
barrel length29"
caliber/gauge.50 BMG
capacity3 + 1
safetyAmbidextrous

Frequently asked questions

Does it come with a scope base or rings?
No, it does not include rings. The receiver features an integral 20 MOA Picatinny rail machined directly into the Black DLC-coated steel. You will need to purchase separate scope rings to mount your optic. I recommend using 34mm or 35mm rings from a manufacturer like Spuhr or Seekins for this application.
What muzzle thread pattern does it have?
The 29-inch match-grade barrel is threaded 5/8-24 TPI. This is the standard thread pitch for .50 BMG muzzle devices and is compatible with most .50 cal muzzle brakes and suppressors. The included MX4 muzzle brake is shipped installed and torqued to 35 foot-pounds.
Is this rifle CA legal or restricted in other states?
This rifle may be restricted in certain jurisdictions. California, for example, has specific regulations regarding .50 BMG rifles. It is the buyer's sole responsibility to verify compliance with all federal, state, and local laws before purchasing. Ironclad Armory will only ship to an FFL holder who confirms they will complete the transfer in accordance with applicable law.
How long is the shipping time?
Shipping time is typically 3-5 business days after your FFL's license is verified and the order is processed. All firearms are shipped via FedEx with adult signature required and must be sent to the licensed dealer you specified during checkout. You must contact your FFL prior to ordering to confirm they will accept the transfer.
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.
$4749.95