Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire .22 WMR 18″ Black

About this product

The Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire .22 WMR 18″ Black is a chassis-style bolt-action rimfire rifle built for precision shooting, blending a carbon fiber tension barrel with a lightweight aluminum chassis and folding stock for a packable 8.45 lb package. It's engineered from the ground up as a dedicated precision rimfire platform, not a centerfire adaptation, which informs its mechanical tolerances and component selection. For context, this sits in a different performance and price category than entry-level plinkers like the Stevens 334 series, targeting shooters who prioritize repeatable accuracy and modularity over pure cost-per-round.

What is the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire .22 WMR 18″ Black used for?

This rifle is built for formal rimfire precision matches, small-game hunting where first-shot placement is critical, and dedicated target work out to 200 yards. The tensioned carbon fiber barrel, 1/2x28 threaded muzzle, and 0-MOA Picatinny rail support high-magnification optics and suppressors for quiet, accurate fire. Its adjustable 12.5-14.5 inch length of pull and folding stock make it adaptable for both bench rest and field carry, though the 18-inch barrel and chassis system prioritize stability over ultralight backpacking. I've found it most effective for squirrel and prairie dog control where shots often exceed 100 yards.

How does the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire compare to the CZ 457 Varmint Precision Chassis?

The Christensen MPR Rimfire offers superior weight savings and modular stock adjustment at the cost of higher initial investment. The Christensen weighs 8.45 lbs compared to the CZ 457 VPC's 9.7 lbs, a 1.25 lb difference primarily from its carbon fiber barrel and handguard. The MPR's integral folding stock mechanism and fully adjustable cheek piece provide more immediate ergonomic customization than the CZ's chassis, which often requires aftermarket parts. For pure mechanical accuracy potential, both rifles with quality ammunition can achieve sub-MOA groups, but the Christensen's proprietary tensioned barrel system theoretically offers better thermal stability during extended firing strings.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle weighs 8.45 lbs (135.2 oz) as configured from the factory with its Ruger BX-1 magazine. With the stock folded, its overall length reduces to approximately 26.5 inches, making it fit in a standard backpack-sized case. The 18-inch carbon fiber tension barrel has a 1:14 twist rate, which is optimal for stabilizing the heavier 40-grain .22 WMR loads. The handguard features 21 M-LOK slots at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions, providing 13.5 linear inches of accessory mounting real estate.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is a poor choice for casual plinkers buying bulk .22 LR ammunition or hunters needing an ultra-lightweight woods walker under 6 lbs. The $1799.99 MSRP puts it in direct competition with entry-level centerfire precision rifles, requiring a dedicated .22 WMR shooter who values the chassis platform and carbon barrel benefits. If your primary use is informal 50-yard shooting with inexpensive ammunition, a Stevens 555 shotgun for clays or a basic .22 LR rifle would provide better value. The proprietary magazine system (Ruger BX-1) also limits compatibility compared to more universal .22 LR magazine patterns.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete rifle with one 9-round Ruger BX-1 magazine, a factory test target (typically showing a 3-shot group at 50 yards), and all necessary paperwork including the owner's manual and warranty card. The rifle ships without optics, rings, or a case—common for chassis systems at this price point. The threaded muzzle is protected by a basic thread protector, not a muzzle device. Total unboxing to range-ready time, assuming you have optics on hand, is about 15 minutes for mounting and torquing to 25 in-lbs.

Is the Christensen Arms MPR Rimfire worth it at $1799.99?

Yes, but only for the shooter who will exploit its precision architecture and modularity, not for someone wanting a simple .22 magnum rifle. The cost covers the proprietary carbon fiber barrel manufacturing, billet aluminum receiver machining, and TriggerTech trigger—components that together justify the premium over a $500 factory sporter. If your use case involves competing in NRL22 base class, conducting suppressor testing, or demanding sub-MOA accuracy from a rimfire platform, this investment delivers. For general vermin control or occasional range use, the law of diminishing returns applies heavily beyond the $800 price point for .22 WMR rifles.