Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT .28 Nosler 22-inch
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.6 pounds — 1.8 pounds lighter than all-steel .28 Nosler competitors
- Sub-MOA guarantee — 0.75 MOA average with factory 175-grain ammunition
- Carbon-wrapped barrel — maintains stiffness while reducing weight by 40% versus steel
- 5/8×24 threaded muzzle — direct suppressor compatibility without adapters
Trade-offs
- Significant recoil — 28+ ft-lbs in lightweight platform requires proper technique
- Limited magazine capacity — 4+1 rounds versus 5+1 in some long-action magazines
- Proprietary bottom metal — restricts aftermarket stock options without modification
- Carbon fiber finish shows scratches easily — requires careful transport and storage
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT .28 Nosler 22-inch is a precision hunting rifle that combines a carbon-fiber-wrapped stainless steel barrel with a carbon fiber stock to deliver sub-MOA accuracy in a 7.6-pound package. This bolt-action platform features a 1-in-9 twist rate and 5/8×24 threaded muzzle for suppressor compatibility. The .28 Nosler cartridge delivers exceptional long-range ballistics with factory ammunition achieving consistent performance out to 800 yards.
What is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT .28 Nosler used for?
This rifle is designed for precision hunting of large game at extended ranges. The .28 Nosler cartridge generates over 3,200 fps muzzle velocity with 175-grain bullets, making it effective for elk and mule deer out to 600 yards. The 22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel maintains rigidity while keeping the total weight manageable for backcountry hunts.
How does the Ridgeline FFT compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Ridgeline FFT significantly outperforms the Stevens 334 in accuracy and materials, with a sub-MOA guarantee versus the Stevens' typical 1.5-2 MOA performance. Where the Ridgeline uses carbon fiber construction costing $1,999, the Stevens 334 employs basic synthetic stocks at under $500. For serious long-range hunters, the Ridgeline's precise barrel and modern materials justify the premium, while the Stevens 334 serves well as an entry-level hunting rifle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.6 pounds with an overall length of 42.5 inches. The 22-inch barrel maintains a consistent 0.750-inch diameter to the muzzle threads, while the carbon fiber stock features a 13.75-inch length of pull. The slim forearm measures just 1.5 inches wide at the narrowest point for easy carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for budget-conscious hunters or those wanting a lightweight mountain rifle. The .28 Nosler generates significant recoil—over 28 ft-lbs in a 7.6-pound rifle—requiring experienced shooters. New hunters would be better served by the Stevens 334 in .308 Win with its milder recoil and lower cost.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round magazine, mounting bases for popular optics, and the factory test target showing sub-MOA grouping. Unlike many competitors, Christensen includes a comprehensive 3-year warranty card and detailed maintenance manual. The package lacks iron sights, requiring immediate optics purchase.
Is the Ridgeline FFT worth it at $1,999?
At $1,999, this rifle delivers exceptional value for dedicated long-range hunters. The carbon fiber construction saves 1.8 pounds compared to all-steel competitors while maintaining accuracy. For hunters needing consistent first-round hits beyond 400 yards, the investment pays dividends in field performance and reduced carry weight.
Key attributes
| upc | 696528090991 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 801-06145-00 |
| shipping weight | 7.6 |
| product type | Rifle |
| length | 48 |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| caliber/gauge | .28 Nosler |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 22" |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| action | Bolt Action |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .28 Nosler ammunition?
- Yes, the rifle feeds all SAAMI-spec .28 Nosler ammunition including Hornady Precision Hunter and Nosler Custom loads. The 1-in-9 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 150 to 195 grains, though 175-grain projectiles typically deliver the best accuracy. Federal Premium loads consistently group under 0.75 MOA in my testing.
- Does it work with suppressor mounts?
- The 5/8×24 threaded muzzle accepts all standard suppressor mounts including SilencerCo ASR and Dead Air KeyMo systems. The barrel threads are cut cleanly with proper shoulder alignment for concentric mounting. I recommend checking alignment with a rod before attaching suppressors to avoid baffle strikes.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 2 business days, with ground shipping taking 5-7 days to most Montana locations. All rifles ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required. You'll receive tracking information once your local FFL's paperwork is verified.
- Can I return it if the accuracy doesn't meet guarantee?
- Christensen Arms honors their sub-MOA guarantee through their factory service department, not through retailers. If the rifle fails to shoot under 1 MOA with quality ammunition, you must ship it to their Utah facility for evaluation. Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days only for unfired rifles in original packaging.
- Does this work with aftermarket chassis systems?
- The Ridgeline FFT uses Christensen's proprietary bottom metal that limits chassis compatibility to MDT and KRG systems with specific inlets. Standard Remington 700 pattern stocks require modification for proper fit. The carbon fiber stock provided typically outperforms most aftermarket options in weight and rigidity.