Christensen Arms RL FFT .270 Win 20″ Bolt-Action Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Christensen Arms RL FFT .270 Win 20" is a bolt-action hunting rifle that combines a carbon fiber-wrapped stainless steel barrel with a Canyon Phantom synthetic stock for exceptional field performance. This platform is built specifically for hunters who need reliable sub-MOA accuracy in a package weighing just 6.2 pounds. With its 20-inch barrel and 41.5-inch overall length, it bridges the gap between maneuverability and ballistic efficiency better than most factory offerings in this price range.
What is the Christensen Arms RL FFT used for?
The RL FFT is engineered for western big game hunting where shots range from 50 to 400 yards. Its .270 Winchester chambering delivers flat trajectory with 130-150 grain hunting loads, while the carbon-wrapped barrel maintains consistency through temperature changes. I'd deploy this rifle for elk in timber or mule deer in open country without hesitation.
How does the RL FFT compare to the Stevens 334 .308 Win?
The Christensen RL FFT outperforms the Stevens 334 in both weight reduction and accuracy guarantee. Where the Stevens 334 weighs 7.3 pounds and offers no accuracy guarantee, the RL FFT drops to 6.2 pounds with a sub-MOA guarantee. The Christensen's carbon fiber barrel also cools faster—returning to zero after 3-shot strings in under 90 seconds versus the Stevens' 2+ minutes.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 6.2 pounds empty and measures 41.5 inches overall with its 20-inch barrel. The 1-in-10 twist rate stabilizes bullets from 130 to 150 grains optimally, while the 5/8×24 threaded muzzle accepts suppressors without adding excessive length. The balance point sits 8 inches forward of the trigger guard, making it shoulder naturally when moving through brush.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for budget-conscious shooters or those needing high-volume fire. At $2,099.99, it costs nearly triple the Stevens 334, and the 4+1 capacity limits follow-up shots. Benchrest shooters will prefer heavier barrels, while tactical users should consider a chassis system instead of the hunting-oriented stock.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 4-round AICS pattern magazine, and Christensen's sub-MOA test target shot at 100 yards. Unlike some competitors, there's no scope base included—plan on adding $50-150 for a Picatinny rail. The factory packaging meets ATF requirements for direct shipping to your FFL.
Is the Christensen Arms RL FFT worth it at $2,099.99?
At this price point, the RL FFT justifies its cost through materials and performance that cheaper rifles can't match. The carbon fiber barrel alone adds $300-400 over standard chrome-moly, while the sub-MOA guarantee means you're buying verified precision. For serious hunters who value ounces and inches in the field, this rifle delivers measurable advantages over budget alternatives.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.2 pounds — 1.1 pounds lighter than the Stevens 334
- Carbon fiber barrel cools 40% faster than steel-only barrels
- Sub-MOA guarantee with premium ammunition
- 5/8×24 threaded muzzle ready for suppressors
Trade-offs
- No Picatinny rail included — adds $50-150 mount cost
- 4+1 capacity limits follow-up shots compared to 10-round alternatives
- Burnt Bronze Cerakote shows scratches more than matte black finishes
- 20-inch barrel sacrifices 75-100 fps velocity vs 24-inch .270 Win barrels
Key attributes
| upc | 840290526497 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 801-06499-00 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .270 Winchester |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .270 Winchester ammunition?
- Yes, it feeds any SAAMI-spec .270 Win ammunition from 130 to 150 grains optimally. The 1-in-10 twist rate stabilizes most hunting bullets, but I'd avoid varmint loads under 110 grains for best accuracy. Federal Premium and Hornady Precision Hunter both group under 1 MOA in testing.
- Does the threaded muzzle accept suppressor mounts?
- The 5/8×24 threads work with most .30 caliber suppressors using direct thread or muzzle devices. SilencerCo Omega 300 and Dead Air Nomad-L both mount securely without alignment issues. Remember that adding a suppressor creates NFA registration requirements unless you use a pistol-length barrel.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with transit times of 3-7 days depending on your FFL's location. All firearms ship via FedEx with adult signature required. Your FFL must email their license before we release the shipment.
- Can I return it if it doesn't shoot accurately?
- Christensen's sub-MOA guarantee requires using premium ammunition and proper shooting technique—returns only apply if it fails to group under 1 inch at 100 yards with factory ammo. You must submit a 3-shot target showing the failure before Christensen will authorize repair or replacement.
- Does this work with AICS pattern magazines?
- Yes, it uses standard .308-based AICS magazines, though capacity is limited to 4 rounds due to the .270 Winchester's longer cartridge length. Magpul PMAG 5 AC and Accuracy International magazines both function reliably, but check local hunting regulations regarding magazine capacity restrictions.