Christensen Arms 8010135500 Mesa FFT Buckmasters Full Size 6.5 PRC 22″ Black Cerakote Match Grade Threaded Barrel, Black Cerakote Stainless Steel Drilled & Tapped Receiver, Black w/Orange Sporter FFT
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.8 lb — 2.1 lb lighter than Stevens 334 .308 Win
- Achieves 0.75 MOA accuracy with match ammunition
- 22-inch free-floating barrel reduces harmonic vibration
- Carbon fiber stock withstands 1,200 lb compressive load
Trade-offs
- No included scope bases — adds $60-120 for mounting system
- 6.5 PRC ammunition costs $2.75/round vs $1.10 for .308 Win
- Carbon fiber shows orange accent wear after 500+ rounds
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Christensen Arms Mesa FFT Buckmasters is a precision long-range hunting rifle chambered in 6.5 PRC with a carbon fiber composite stock and match-grade threaded barrel. Built on Christensen Arms' Flash Forged Technology platform, this rifle delivers exceptional accuracy while reducing weight for extended field carry. The drilled and tapped receiver provides mounting flexibility for optics, while the Cerakote finish ensures durability in harsh conditions.
What is the Christensen Arms Mesa FFT Buckmasters used for?
This rifle is designed for precision long-range hunting and tactical applications where weight reduction matters. The 6.5 PRC cartridge delivers flat trajectories out to 800+ yards, making it ideal for elk, mule deer, and other large game. The threaded barrel accepts suppressors or muzzle brakes, reducing recoil for faster follow-up shots.
How does the Christensen Arms Mesa FFT compare to the Stevens 334?
The Mesa FFT outperforms the Stevens 334 in both accuracy and weight reduction, but costs $800 more. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers reliable performance at 1.5 MOA, the Mesa FFT consistently achieves sub-MOA groups thanks to its hand-lapped match barrel and free-floating design. The carbon fiber stock makes the Mesa 2.1 pounds lighter than the Stevens' synthetic stock, critical for mountain hunting.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Mesa FFT weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded with a 22-inch barrel length and 42.5-inch overall length. The carbon fiber stock measures 13.75 inches length of pull with a 1.5-inch drop at comb, accommodating most shooters without modification. The 1:8 twist rate stabilizes heavy 6.5 PRC projectiles up to 147 grains effectively.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for budget-conscious shooters or those needing high-volume fire. At $1,449.99, it's positioned above entry-level options like the Stevens 334, and the 6.5 PRC ammunition costs significantly more than .308 Win. The threaded barrel also requires NFA compliance for suppressor use, adding $200 and months of paperwork.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 3-round AICS pattern magazine, thread protector, and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it doesn't include scope bases—you'll need to purchase Picatinny or Weaver rails separately. The packaging meets all ITAR requirements with proper locking and documentation for legal transport.
Is the Christensen Arms Mesa FFT worth it at $1449.99?
Yes, for serious hunters who value weight savings and precision. The carbon fiber construction and match-grade barrel justify the premium over synthetic-stock rifles, delivering 0.75 MOA accuracy with handloads. Compared to custom builds costing $3,000+, this offers 90% of the performance at half the price, making it one of the best production rifles for backcountry hunting.
Key attributes
| upc | 840290541230 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 8010135500 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5 PRC |
| safety | Two-Position |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AICS magazines?
- Yes, it uses standard AICS pattern magazines. The rifle ships with one 3-round metal magazine, and accepts aftermarket options from Accuracy International, Magpul, and MDT. Magazine release is ambidextrous and requires 2.5 pounds of pressure to engage.
- Does it work with SilencerCo suppressors?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle accepts most .30 caliber suppressors including SilencerCo Omega 300 and Dead Air Sandman-S. Threads are cut to SAE specifications with 0.005-inch clearance for proper alignment. Always verify suppressor rating for 6.5 PRC pressures exceeding 65,000 PSI.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically ship within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day. Delivery requires signature from licensed FFL holder and valid ID. International shipments follow ITAR regulations and add 10-15 days for export compliance checks.
- Can I return it if there's a defect?
- Yes, Christensen Arms provides a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects. Returns must be initiated within 30 days through authorized dealers like Ironclad Armory. Firearms returned directly to manufacturer require FFL transfer both ways, adding $50-75 in transfer fees.