Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT 6.8 Western 20in Bolt-Action
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT 6.8 Western 20in Bolt-Action is a lightweight precision rifle featuring carbon-fiber construction and Christensen's Flash Forged Technology components, delivering exceptional accuracy in a field-ready package weighing just 5.30 lbs. Chambered in the modern 6.8 Western cartridge, this rifle represents the intersection of cutting-edge materials science and practical hunting applications. With its 20-inch threaded barrel and 1:8 twist rate, it's optimized for the high-BC bullets that make the 6.8 Western effective beyond traditional hunting ranges.
What is the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT used for?
The Ridgeline FFT is primarily a mountain and long-range hunting rifle designed for shooters covering serious ground. Its 5.30 lb weight makes it ideal for backcountry elk and mule deer hunts where every ounce matters, while the 6.8 Western cartridge provides consistent energy delivery out to 600 yards. The carbon-wrapped barrel maintains accuracy during extended shooting sessions, with the 3+1 capacity being standard for most western big game regulations.
How does the Ridgeline FFT compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Ridgeline FFT outperforms the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester in both weight reduction and long-range ballistics, weighing 2.7 lbs less while delivering superior downrange energy. However, the Stevens 334 costs approximately $1,500 less and offers more affordable practice ammunition. For hunters needing maximum performance at distance, the Ridgeline's 6.8 Western chambering maintains 1,500 ft-lbs of energy nearly 100 yards farther than .308 Winchester with similar recoil.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.30 lbs (85 oz) with an overall length of 40.5 inches from muzzle to buttpad. The 20-inch barrel features a 5/8×24 thread pattern ready for suppressors or muzzle devices, while the carbon fiber stock maintains a 13.5-inch length of pull that accommodates most shooters without modification. The slim profile keeps the rifle manageable in thick timber while the carbon construction ensures stability in variable weather conditions.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for budget-conscious shooters or those primarily targeting whitetail deer at under 200 yards. The $2,049.99 price point and premium 6.8 Western ammunition cost approximately $2.80 per round compared to .308 Winchester at $1.20. Hunters who rarely shoot beyond 300 yards would be better served by the Stevens 334 in .243 Winchester, which delivers adequate performance at half the cost.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the baffle brake installed, one 3-round AICS pattern magazine, and Christensen's Sub-MOA guarantee documentation. Unlike many factory rifles, it does not include scope bases or sling swivels, adding approximately $75-150 in necessary accessories before field use. The burnt bronze Cerakote finish provides corrosion resistance out of the box, but the carbon fiber components require specific cleaning protocols to maintain their integrity.
Is the Ridgeline FFT worth it at $2,049.99?
At $2,049.99, the Ridgeline FFT delivers value for serious hunters requiring lightweight precision in demanding conditions. The carbon fiber construction saves 2-3 lbs compared to traditional rifles, while the 6.8 Western chambering offers ballistic advantages over legacy cartridges. For shooters who regularly engage game beyond 400 yards or pack into remote areas, the weight savings and accuracy justify the premium over alternatives like the $499 Stevens 334.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.30 lbs — 2.7 lbs lighter than the Stevens 334 .308 Win
- Carbon-wrapped barrel maintains 0.75 MOA accuracy through 20-round strings
- 5/8×24 threaded muzzle ready for suppressors without adapter
- Sub-MOA guarantee backed by Christensen's proof target requirement
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included — adds $200-400 for quality backup optics
- Carbon fiber requires specific cleaning solvents to avoid finish damage
- 6.8 Western ammunition costs $2.80/round vs $1.20 for .308 Winchester
- Fixed stock lacks adjustability found on $500 upgrade chassis systems
Key attributes
| upc | 840290504082 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 801-06315-00 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.8 Western |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| length | 48 |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 8.15 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .270 Winchester ammunition?
- No, the 6.8 Western is not compatible with .270 Winchester despite similar bullet diameters. The 6.8 Western uses a larger case head and different shoulder angle, requiring specifically headstamped ammunition from manufacturers like Browning or Federal. Attempting to fire .270 Winchester in this rifle could cause dangerous pressure issues.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 40.5-inch overall length fits most 42-inch rifle cases with room for accessories. I recommend Pelican 1750 cases for airline travel or Savior Equipment's 42-inch double rifle bags for vehicle transport. The carbon fiber stock is durable but benefits from padded protection during transit.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL shipments within 2 business days, with transit times typically 3-5 days via FedEx or UPS. All firearms ship signature-required to your chosen FFL holder, who will conduct the mandatory background check before transfer. We coordinate directly with your dealer to ensure smooth delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't meet accuracy guarantees?
- Christensen Arms honors their Sub-MOA guarantee with specific testing protocols requiring 3-shot groups using premium ammunition. If your rifle fails to shoot under 1 MOA, contact Christensen directly for evaluation—they typically require the rifle returned to their Utah facility where their technicians will test and correct any issues within 30 days.
- Does this work with standard AICS pattern magazines?
- Yes, the Ridgeline FFT uses standard AICS pattern magazines, compatible with many aftermarket options from Accuracy International, Magpul, and MDT. The included magazine has a 3-round capacity, but 5-round and 10-round versions are available for approximately $45-90 from most major suppliers.