CVA SCOUT SS TD 338ARC SS/SYN 18″
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel 18" barrel resists corrosion in wet environments—critical for all-weather hunting
- Takedown design reduces overall length to 26" for transport—fits in compact storage spaces
- Weighs 5.8 lb unloaded—1.2 lb lighter than many comparable bolt-action hunting rifles
- 338 ARC delivers 2,250 ft-lbs muzzle energy—exceeds most straight-wall cartridge minimum requirements
Trade-offs
- Single-shot action only—no rapid follow-up shots on moving game without complete reload procedure
- Barrel not threaded from factory—adds $150-200 gunsmithing cost for suppressor attachment
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb or length-of-pull—limits customization for different shooters
- 338 ARC ammunition averages $2.25 per round—50% higher cost than common .30-30 Winchester loads
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The CVA SCOUT SS TD 338ARC SS/SYN 18" is a stainless-steel barreled, single-shot takedown rifle chambered in the modern 338 ARC cartridge. It's designed as a purpose-built tool for regulated hunting zones where straight-wall cartridges are mandated, not a general-purpose sporting rifle. At its core, this rifle is an NFA-compliant solution that leverages the 338 ARC's terminal ballistics within restrictive legal frameworks.
What is the CVA SCOUT SS TD 338ARC used for?
The CVA Scout 338 ARC is used for regulated hunting in states with straight-wall cartridge laws, where its SS/SYN 18" configuration provides a portable, corrosion-resistant platform. Its stainless construction and synthetic stock are purpose-built for inclement weather in Midwest and Eastern deer woods, making it a specialist tool rather than a casual plinker. This rifle excels where legal requirements dictate cartridge geometry over traditional sporting preferences, turning a legislative restriction into a tactical advantage.
How does the CVA SCOUT compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308?
The CVA Scout is better for regulated hunting zones, while the Stevens 334 in .308 is superior for general-purpose deer hunting where bottleneck cartridges are permitted. The Stevens 334 offers a 20in barrel, detachable 3-round magazine, and the ballistic versatility of a classic .308 Winchester round, making it more flexible across different terrains. The CVA Scout sacrifices magazine capacity and rapid follow-up shots for specific legal compliance, creating a narrower but essential niche for hunters operating under strict cartridge regulations.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 5.8 pounds with the 18-inch stainless barrel, and breaks down to a 26-inch overall package for transport. Its unloaded weight shaves nearly a full pound off many comparable bolt-action platforms, which matters when covering ground in dense timber. The takedown design reduces the rifle's longest dimension to just over two feet, allowing for discreet storage in vehicle compartments or cases that wouldn't accommodate a traditional rifle.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for traditionalists who prioritize walnut stocks or for shooters wanting a high-volume range toy. The single-shot action and specialized cartridge make rapid fire impossible and casual ammunition sourcing difficult compared to ubiquitous calibers like .30-06. If you hunt exclusively in states without straight-wall restrictions or value quick follow-up shots on running game, you'll be better served by a magazine-fed rifle like our more on Stevens 334 in .243 Win.
What's in the box?
The box contains the barreled action, synthetic stock, and a single 338 ARC chamber adapter—that's it. Don't expect scope bases, sling swivels, or a soft case; CVA ships this as a bare-bones platform expecting the buyer to add optics and accessories specific to their use case. The spartan packaging reflects the rifle's utilitarian nature and keeps the base price at $495.99, putting the budget toward the stainless steel and accurate chambering rather than accessories you might replace anyway.
Is the CVA SCOUT SS TD 338ARC worth it at $495.99?
At $495.99, it's worth it specifically as a compliance tool for straight-wall zone hunters who need reliable performance in harsh conditions. The price gets you a stainless barrel that resists corrosion during all-day sits in freezing rain and a takedown system that genuinely works for discreet transport. For any other application, that same budget stretches further with a conventional bolt-action rifle that offers more versatility and easier ammunition sourcing.
Key attributes
| upc | 043125002443 |
| manufacturer | Connecticut Valley Arms / CVA |
| manufacturer part number | CR4447S |
| action | Single Shot |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .338 ARC |
| capacity | 1 |
| color | Silver |
| model | Scout |
| product type | Rifle |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the CVA Scout 338 ARC compatible with standard scope bases?
- Yes, it uses a standard Weaver-style base pattern that accepts common scope rings from manufacturers like Warne or Leupold. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a #8-40 screw pattern, which is the industry standard for rimfire and light rifle applications. I recommend using a medium-height ring for most 40-44mm objective scopes to maintain a proper cheek weld on the synthetic stock.
- Does this rifle fit in a standard 28-inch rifle case?
- When broken down, the two main components fit easily in a compact 28-inch hard case with room for accessories. The barreled action separates from the stock with a single large takedown screw, reducing the longest dimension to approximately 26 inches. This makes it ideal for hunters traveling by air or needing to store firearms discreetly in vehicle trunks where full-length cases would be conspicuous.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard shipping to your selected FFL dealer takes 5-7 business days once payment clears and compliance verification is complete. Ironclad Armory processes all firearm transfers through a licensed shipping carrier with adult signature required and tracking provided. Remember that your FFL must provide their license before shipment, adding 1-2 business days to the initial processing time.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- No, federal regulations prohibit the return of firearms directly to consumers once transferred through an FFL. All mechanical issues must be handled through CVA's manufacturer warranty service, which typically requires shipping the firearm to their authorized repair center. I recommend function-checking the rifle at your FFL before completing the transfer paperwork to identify any immediate concerns.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- The 18-inch barrel is not threaded from the factory, so direct suppressor attachment requires aftermarket gunsmithing. CVA offers threaded barrel versions in other calibers, but the 338 ARC configuration comes with a crowned muzzle only. If you require a suppressed platform for this cartridge, you'll need to budget approximately $150-200 for a competent gunsmith to thread the barrel to 5/8-24 UNEF, which is the common thread pattern for .30 caliber suppressors.