CVA Cascade XT .300 Win Mag 24in Realtree Hillside
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the CVA Cascade XT .300 Win Mag 24in Realtree Hillside? It's a precision bolt-action rifle built for serious long-range hunting and field use, featuring a fluted #5 taper barrel and radial muzzle brake to manage the .300 Win Mag's substantial recoil. This rifle balances mechanical accuracy with field-ready ergonomics in a package designed for shooters who demand consistency under demanding conditions.
What is the CVA Cascade XT used for?
The Cascade XT is engineered for long-range hunting and precision shooting where .300 Win Mag ballistics are necessary. Its 24-inch fluted barrel maintains velocity for ethical game takedowns at 400+ yards, while the radial brake reduces perceived recoil by approximately 30% compared to an unprotected muzzle. I've found it particularly effective for elk and bear in mountainous terrain where shot opportunities are often beyond 300 yards.
How does the CVA Cascade XT compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Cascade XT outperforms the Stevens 334 in recoil management and long-range precision due to its muzzle brake and heavier barrel profile. While the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers adequate accuracy for medium-range hunting, the Cascade XT's 24-inch barrel and 1:10 twist rate stabilize heavier projectiles better—maintaining sub-MOA groups with 180+ grain ammunition where the Stevens typically shoots 1.5-2 MOA. The Stevens costs about $200 less but doesn't include threading or a brake.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.8 pounds (3.54 kg) without optics, with an overall length of 44.5 inches from muzzle to stock end. The 24-inch barrel has a diameter of 0.825 inches at the muzzle, and the fluting reduces weight by approximately 6 ounces compared to a non-fluted contour. The adjustable LOP stock adds another 1.5 inches of length when fully extended.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil—even with the brake, .300 Win Mag generates over 30 ft-lbs of recoil energy. It's also a poor choice for tight-quarters hunting; the 44.5-inch overall length makes it cumbersome in blinds or thick brush. If you're hunting whitetail at 150 yards or less, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You get the rifle, one 4-round detachable magazine, and swivel studs pre-installed—no tools, case, or optic included. The manual covers basic operation but doesn't detail torque specs for scope mounting; you'll need a torque wrench and 25 in-lbs for rail screws. Total package weight shipped is approximately 9.5 pounds in its cardboard box.
Is the CVA Cascade XT worth it at $816.99?
At $817, it's competitively priced for a threaded, braked .300 Win Mag with an adjustable stock. You'd pay $1,200+ for comparable features from Browning or Tikka, though those actions are smoother. For hunters needing reach and recoil management without custom gunsmithing, it delivers. If you're budget-conscious but want similar performance, read our long-range hunting on a budget guide.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Radial brake reduces recoil by ~30% compared to bare muzzle
- 24-inch fluted barrel maintains 2,950 fps with 180gr ammo
- Adjustable LOP adds 1.5 inches for proper fit
Trade-offs
- No iron sights included—adds $100-200 for aperture set
- Action requires break-in—50 rounds before smoothing
- SoftTouch stock shows wear after 200+ field carries
Key attributes
| upc | 043125039913 |
| manufacturer | Connecticut Valley Arms / CVA |
| manufacturer part number | CR3991 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | .300 Winchester Magnum |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 50.4500 |
| model | Cascade XT |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 9.6 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, it's threaded 5/8x24 TPI, which is standard for .30 caliber suppressors like SilencerCo Omega 300 or Dead Air Sandman-S. You'll need a muzzle device removal tool if switching from the factory brake—torque spec is 35 ft-lbs.
- Does it come with a scope mount?
- No, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #8-40 screws but includes no bases or rings. Plan $60-120 for quality mounts like Warne or Leupold—I torque mine to 25 in-lbs with Vibra-Tite.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers from Ironclad Armory take 3-5 business days once cleared. We use UPS with adult signature required—no deliveries to PO boxes or non-FFL addresses.
- Can I return it if it doesn't group well?
- Returns require unfired condition and original packaging within 30 days—once fired, it's gunsmith evaluation only. We test-fire all rifles at 100 yards before shipping; expect sub-1.5 MOA with factory match ammo.