CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter .223 Rem 20in FDE Kryptek 10+1
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter .223 Rem 20in FDE Kryptek 10+1 is a bolt-action precision rifle engineered specifically for sustained varmint and predator control work. It combines a heavy-contour threaded barrel with an adjustable synthetic stock and Cerakote finish for all-weather durability. This rifle delivers consistent sub-MOA accuracy while maintaining field-ready reliability under demanding conditions.
What is the CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter used for?
This rifle is designed for precision varmint and predator hunting at ranges from 100-400 yards. The 20-inch heavy barrel minimizes vibration for consistent shot placement, while the 1:9 twist rate stabilizes .223 Remington rounds up to 62 grains effectively. I've found it particularly effective for prairie dog towns and coyote control operations where shot volume and precision matter equally.
How does the CVA Cascade compare to the Stevens 334?
The Cascade outperforms the Stevens 334 in accuracy consistency and ergonomic adjustments, though it costs $200 more. Where the Stevens 334 provides basic .308 Win functionality at 8.1 lbs, the Cascade delivers sub-MOA groups with match ammunition and features an adjustable comb and length-of-pull system. For varmint-specific work, the Cascade's heavier 8.7 lb weight and threaded barrel make it the superior platform for suppressor use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 8.7 lbs unloaded and measures 42 inches in overall length. The 20-inch barrel features 5/8x24 threading for direct suppressor attachment, while the 1:9 twist rate handles common varmint loads optimally. The adjustable stock adds approximately 1.5 inches of length-of-pull range, accommodating shooters from 5'6" to 6'4" without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for big game hunting or tactical applications requiring rapid follow-up shots. The 8.7 lb weight makes it cumbersome for still-hunting whitetail, and the bolt action cycle time averages 2-3 seconds between shots compared to semi-automatic platforms. If you need a multi-purpose hunting rifle, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with one 10-round AICS-pattern magazine, the 20 MOA Picatinny rail pre-installed, and all adjustment tools for the stock. The package excludes optics, rings, or bipod attachments—plan for another $300-600 in necessary accessories. The Cerakote finish comes from the factory with complete coverage, including the bolt handle and trigger guard.
Is the CVA Cascade worth it at $882.99?
At $882.99, this rifle justifies its price through precision machining and features typically found on $1,200+ platforms. The adjustable stock alone would cost $250 aftermarket, while the included 20 MOA rail adds another $80 value. For shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy without custom gunsmithing, the Cascade delivers immediate capability that would require $1,500+ to replicate through aftermarket modifications.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Sub-MOA accuracy with match ammunition—consistently 0.8-1.2 inch groups at 100 yards
- Fully adjustable stock includes comb height and length-of-pull adjustments (1.5 inch LOP range)
- Threaded 20-inch barrel with 5/8x24 pattern ready for suppressor mounting
- Cerakote FDE finish provides corrosion resistance exceeding 500 hours salt spray testing
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazine system requires $45 AICS-pattern mags—not AR-compatible
- 8.7 lb weight is heavy for walking varmint hunts—2.1 lbs heavier than Ruger Precision Rimfire
- No iron sights included—requires $200+ optic investment immediately
- Bolt lift requires 12 lbs of force—stiffer than Tikka T3x actions by 3-4 lbs
Key attributes
| upc | 043125001897 |
| manufacturer | Connecticut Valley Arms / CVA |
| manufacturer part number | CR4051 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .223 REM/5.56 NATO |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| model | Cascade |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 magazines?
- No, it uses proprietary AICS-pattern magazines only—the included 10-round magazine is specific to this platform. You'll need to purchase additional magazines directly from CVA or Brownells at approximately $45 each. The magazine well won't accept PMAGs or other AR-style magazines.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, it fits most 44-inch rifle cases with room to spare. The 42-inch overall length allows clearance in Plano All-Weather cases and similar hard-sided options. For air travel, you'll need a TSA-approved case measuring at least 46 inches internally.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required, taking 3-5 business days from our warehouse to your FFL. We process orders within 24 hours on business days, but your FFL must email their license before shipment. Allow 7-10 total days for delivery including transfer processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, all firearm sales are final once transferred through an FFL. We recommend verifying dimensions with your local gunsmith before purchase. If there's a manufacturing defect, CVA provides a lifetime warranty through their service center in Minnesota with 2-3 week turnaround times.
- Does this work with SilencerCo suppressors?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 thread pattern accepts SilencerCo Saker 556 and Omega 300 models directly. You'll need a muzzle device or direct thread adapter—plan for 1/2-inch added length and 6-8 oz additional weight. Always check suppressor alignment with alignment rods before first use.