CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter .204 Ruger 20 in. FDE 10+1
About this product
The CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter .204 Ruger 20 in. FDE 10+1 is a bolt-action rifle engineered for precision varmint and predator elimination with a heavy-contour threaded barrel and adjustable synthetic stock. Chambered in .204 Ruger, this rifle delivers flat trajectories and minimal recoil for extended field sessions. Its Cerakote FDE finish provides corrosion resistance while the 20 MOA Picatinny rail supports modern optics mounting.
What is the CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for varmint and predator hunting at ranges up to 300 yards where wind drift and shot placement matter. The .204 Ruger cartridge achieves velocities around 4,225 fps with 32-grain bullets, making it effective against coyotes and prairie dogs without excessive pelt damage. The threaded 20-inch barrel accepts suppressors or muzzle brakes for reduced noise signature and recoil management during extended sessions.
How does the CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Cascade Varmint Hunter outperforms the Stevens 334 .243 Win in precision-oriented features but sacrifices some versatility. Where the Stevens 334 uses a basic synthetic stock and non-threaded barrel, the Cascade adds an adjustable comb, 5/8×24 threading, and 20 MOA rail—critical for long-range varminting. However, the .243 Win offers better barrier penetration against larger predators, making the Stevens more adaptable for mixed-game scenarios.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 8.70 pounds unloaded and measures 42 inches in overall length. The 20-inch heavy-contour barrel contributes 3.2 pounds to the total weight, stabilizing the platform during rapid follow-up shots. The 1:9 twist rate optimally stabilizes 32-40 grain .204 Ruger projectiles, maintaining accuracy even with thermal drift in variable conditions.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for hunters needing multi-caliber versatility or those operating in thick brush where shorter barrels excel. The 20-inch length and 8.70-pound weight make it cumbersome in tight quarters compared to compact carbines like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. Additionally, the .204 Ruger's light projectiles struggle with wind deflection beyond 400 yards, limiting long-range effectiveness compared to 6mm ARC or .223 Wylde platforms.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action, Kryptek Highlander stock, one 10-round AICS pattern magazine, and mounting hardware for the Picatinny rail. The magazine weighs 5.6 ounces empty and interfaces with the action via a detachable box system—superior to fixed internal magazines for rapid reloads during predator calls. No tools are included for adjusting the comb or length-of-pull; expect to use hex keys from your kit.
Is the CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter worth it at $882.99?
At $882.99, this rifle justifies its cost through features typically found in $1,200+ custom builds. The Cerakote finish, threaded barrel, and adjustable stock provide value exceeding entry-level alternatives like the Ruger American Predator. However, you'll still need to budget $300-$800 for optics and rings, pushing total setup cost toward $1,700—reasonable for dedicated varminters but excessive for occasional use.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Adjustable comb and LOP—12 position comb, 1.5-inch LOP range
- Threaded 20-inch barrel—5/8×24 pitch accepts standard muzzle devices
- Cerakote FDE finish—withstands 500-hour salt spray testing
- 10+1 AICS magazine compatibility—faster reloads than fixed internal boxes
Trade-offs
- Proprietary stock bedding—limits aftermarket options without $250+ adapters
- No iron sights—requires $200+ optic investment immediately
- Heavy at 8.70 lbs—1.3 lbs heavier than Ruger American Predator
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 043125001880 |
| manufacturer | Connecticut Valley Arms / CVA |
| manufacturer part number | CR4050 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .204 Ruger |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| model | Cascade |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the barrel features 5/8×24 threading compatible with most .204 Ruger suppressors from SilencerCo or Dead Air. Threads are cut to SAE specifications with 0.050-inch shoulder clearance for direct-mount cans. Always verify suppressor caliber rating before installation—.204 Ruger operates at 65,000 PSI, exceeding some .223-rated models.
- Does it accept aftermarket stocks?
- The action uses a proprietary bedding system requiring adapter blocks for aftermarket chassis. Boyd's and MDT offer inlet options for $250-$400, but factory bedding provides 0.75 MOA accuracy with handloads. Stick with the factory stock unless you need vertical grip or ARCA rail integration.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day to FFL holders. Transit to Bozeman typically adds 2 days, but allow 10 total for background checks and paperwork. Expedited shipping isn't available due to ATF logging requirements.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle reliably?
- Returns require inspection by our armorers within 14 days of receipt. Function issues stemming from ammunition (e.g., underpowered reloads) void eligibility—we test with Hornady 32gr VMAX before shipment. Mechanical defects receive full refunds minus $75 transfer fee.