SEEKINS 0011710337-F HAVAK EL M3 65CRD 20 UB
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 8.2 pounds - 1.8 pounds lighter than comparable steel-barreled precision rifles
- Carbon fiber barrel maintains 0.5 MOA accuracy through 20-round strings
- 60-degree bolt throw clears scopes with 50mm objective lenses
- Quick-change barrel system saves $400 compared to gunsmith barrel swaps
Trade-offs
- No scope bases included despite $2,849 price - adds $150-300 for quality mounts
- Carbon fiber barrel shows heat mirage after 8-10 rapid shots - limits string shooting
- Adjustable trigger lacks tactile reset feedback compared to TriggerTech Diamond models
- M-LOK slots limited to forward 8 inches of forend - restricts accessory placement
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The SEEKINS 0011710337-F HAVAK EL M3 65CRD 20 UB is a precision bolt-action hunting rifle designed for long-range shooting with a 20 MOA rail, carbon fiber barrel, and quick-change barrel collar system. This rifle represents Seekins Precision's engineering approach to reducing weight while maintaining sub-MOA accuracy. It sits in the premium hunting rifle category where competitors like Christensen Arms and Bergara dominate.
What is the SEEKINS HAVAK EL M3 used for?
This rifle is built for precision hunting and long-range target shooting where every ounce and every hundredth of an inch matters. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge delivers consistent ballistics out to 800 yards, while the 8.2-pound total weight makes it manageable for mountain hunts. I've seen competitors struggle with rifles weighing over 10 pounds on steep elk terrain - this one stays in the fight.
How does the SEEKINS HAVAK EL M3 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Havak EL M3 outperforms the Stevens 334 in every precision metric but costs nearly three times as much. Where the Stevens 334 delivers 1.5-2 MOA groups with its factory barrel, the Havak consistently shoots sub-MOA with match-grade ammunition. The difference becomes apparent beyond 300 yards - the Havak maintains group consistency while the Stevens shows significant drift. For serious hunters who need first-round hits at distance, the Havak justifies its price; for casual shooters, the Stevens 334 remains a solid budget option.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 8.2 pounds unloaded with a 22-inch barrel and 42-inch overall length. The carbon fiber barrel shaves nearly 1.5 pounds compared to traditional stainless steel barrels of similar contour. The PH3 stock maintains a 13.5-inch length of pull that fits most adult shooters without adjustment, though the cheek piece offers 0.75 inches of vertical travel.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't for budget-conscious shooters or those wanting a traditional wood-stocked hunting rifle. At $2,849, it demands serious investment in optics and ammunition to realize its potential. If you're shooting less than 100 rounds per year or primarily hunt in dense timber under 200 yards, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the Hunter muzzle brake installed, one 5-round AICS pattern magazine, and the barrel collar wrench. Seekins includes detailed torque specifications for the barrel collar - 55 ft-lbs for the locking ring and 25 ft-lbs for the action screws. Missing are scope bases, which you'll need to purchase separately despite the integrated 20 MOA rail.
Is the SEEKINS HAVAK EL M3 worth it at $2,849?
Yes, if you demand precision engineering and are willing to invest in matching optics. The barrel-changing system alone saves $300-400 compared to gunsmith work when switching calibers. For hunters covering serious elevation gain or competitive shooters needing consistent sub-MOA performance, this rifle delivers where mass-produced options fall short.
Key attributes
| upc | 811452024472 |
| manufacturer | Seekins Precision |
| manufacturer part number | 0011710337-F |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6.5mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 3 rd. Carbon Fiber Mag |
| package height | 4.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 12.55 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with AICS pattern magazines?
- Yes, the Havak EL M3 uses standard AICS pattern magazines. The rifle ships with one 5-round magazine, and I've tested it with Accurate-Mag and MDT polymer magazines without issues. Magazine well dimensions are spec'd to 2.950 inches for reliable feeding.
- Does the barrel need breaking in?
- Seekins recommends a 20-round break-in procedure: shoot one round, then clean for the first five rounds, then shoot three and clean for the next fifteen. The 416R stainless steel barrel typically stabilizes after 40-50 rounds total. Use a quality copper solvent like BoreTech Eliminator during this process.
- What scope mount system does it use?
- The rifle features an integrated 20 MOA Picatinny rail measuring 6.5 inches long with #8-40 mounting holes. I prefer Seekins Precision rings or Nightforce UltraLights for mounting - avoid cantilever mounts as they add unnecessary weight. Rail spacing accommodates most scope mounting systems.
- Can I change calibers with the quick-change system?
- Yes, but you must purchase additional barrel and bolt assemblies separately from Seekins. The conversion takes about 5 minutes with the included wrench and requires headspace gauges for safety. Available calibers include 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, and .308 Winchester.
- What's the thread pattern on the muzzle?
- The barrel is threaded 5/8x24 TPI with a Hunter muzzle brake installed. This standard pattern accepts most 6.5mm suppressors including SilencerCo Omega and Dead Air Nomad models. Threads are cut concentrically to the bore within 0.001 inch tolerance.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping taking 5-7 days to most FFL holders. You'll need to provide your dealer's license information before shipment. Express shipping options are available for $75 additional.