Christensen Arms RL FFT 28 Nosler 22 in
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Christensen Arms RL FFT 28 Nosler 22 in is a premium bolt-action precision rifle engineered for shooters who demand lightweight performance without sacrificing long-range accuracy. It features a carbon fiber-wrapped stainless steel barrel and a synthetic stock that delivers an exceptional balance of durability and handling characteristics, backed by Christensen Arms' Sub-MOA guarantee. This rifle represents the intersection of modern materials science and traditional firearms craftsmanship, designed for serious marksmen who need to carry their equipment over varied terrain while maintaining shot-to-shot consistency.
What is the Christensen Arms RL FFT 28 Nosler 22 in used for?
This rifle is specifically designed for long-range precision shooting and hunting applications where weight reduction is critical without compromising accuracy. The 28 Nosler chambering delivers flat trajectories and retained energy at extended distances, making it ideal for elk, moose, and other large game at 400+ yards. The 22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel and 5.4 lb weight make it exceptionally maneuverable in blind setups or when stalking through dense timber, while still maintaining the velocity needed for ethical shots.
How does the Christensen Arms RL FFT compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic?
The Christensen Arms RL FFT outperforms the Stevens 334 in both weight reduction and long-range capabilities, though at nearly triple the price point. Where the Stevens 334 weighs 6.8 lb and is chambered in .308 Win with effective range around 800 yards, the Christensen RL FFT weighs just 5.4 lb and utilizes the 28 Nosler cartridge capable of consistent performance beyond 1,200 yards. The carbon fiber construction and premium barrel on the Christensen provide superior heat management and consistency during extended shooting sessions, making it better suited for competitive precision shooting and long-range hunting scenarios.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.4 lb (86.4 oz) with an overall length of 42.5 inches including the 22-inch barrel. The carbon fiber wrapped barrel has a 1:9 twist rate optimized for heavy, high-BC bullets in the 28 Nosler cartridge, while the synthetic stock measures 13.75 inches in length of pull with a 1.5-inch cheek riser height. The 5/8×24 threaded muzzle adds another 0.75 inches to the barrel length when mounting suppressors or muzzle devices.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for budget-conscious shooters or those new to long-range shooting who haven't developed proper fundamentals. The 28 Nosler cartridge produces substantial recoil (approximately 28 ft-lbs of free recoil energy) that requires experienced shooting technique to manage effectively. It's also not ideal for high-volume target shooting due to barrel heating concerns with the carbon wrap construction and the expensive ammunition cost of $4-6 per round for quality hunting loads.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 4-round detachable box magazine, thread protector for the 5/8×24 muzzle threads, and manufacturer's documentation including the Sub-MOA test target. Unlike many competitors, Christensen Arms does not include scope mounting hardware or a basic optic, expecting serious shooters to select their own premium mounting system. The packaging includes foam inserts specifically contoured to the carbon fiber stock to prevent transit damage to the lightweight construction.
Is the Christensen Arms RL FFT worth it at $2099.99?
At $2099.99, this rifle delivers exceptional value for experienced long-range hunters and precision shooters who prioritize weight savings without accuracy compromises. The carbon fiber construction saves approximately 1.5 lb compared to traditional steel-barreled rifles like the Stevens 334, while maintaining Sub-MOA accuracy with proper ammunition selection. For shooters who regularly pack into backcountry terrain or compete in precision rifle matches where every ounce matters, the investment in advanced materials and Christensen's quality control justifies the premium price point over conventional hunting rifles.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.4 lb - 1.4 lb lighter than comparable steel-barreled precision rifles
- 22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel maintains Sub-MOA accuracy with 1:9 twist rate
- 5/8×24 threaded muzzle accepts suppressors and brakes without adapter needed
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazines cost $85 each versus $35 for standard AICS pattern
- 28 Nosler ammunition averages $4.50 per round versus $1.25 for .308 Winchester
- Carbon fiber barrel requires cool-down periods between shot strings to maintain accuracy
Key attributes
| upc | 840290526473 |
| manufacturer | Christensen Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 801-06498-00 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .28 Nosler |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-10 pattern magazines?
- No, the Christensen Arms RL FFT uses proprietary steel magazines designed specifically for the 28 Nosler cartridge and Christensen's action geometry. The included magazine holds 4 rounds and measures 3.4 inches in length, requiring manufacturer-specific replacements available through Christensen Arms dealers or direct from the factory.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 42.5-inch overall length fits most standard 44-inch rifle cases with room for accessories. I recommend a hard-sided case like Pelican's 1750 model with customizable foam to properly support the carbon fiber stock and protect the 22-inch barrel during transport to prevent point of impact shifts.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping through Ironclad Armory takes 3-5 business days for processing and 2-3 days for transit via FedEx, totaling approximately 7 business days from order to delivery. All firearms shipping requires signature confirmation and FFL transfer, adding another 24-48 hours for background check processing at your local dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unfired firearms in original condition, but accuracy claims require validation through Christensen Arms' warranty process. The Sub-MOA guarantee requires testing with factory ammunition and proper shooting technique - if the rifle fails to meet specification, Christensen will repair or replace it through their lifetime warranty, not through retailer returns.