Christensen Arms established itself as a premier manufacturer of high-performance precision rifles, with the Modern Precision Rifle (MPR) scoring one more victory in engineering a lightweight hunting rifle. The carbon-barreled rifle series stands out as a remarkable achievement in modern firearms manufacturing, combining cutting-edge materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and outstanding performance.
The Modern Carbon Rifle is a futuristic weapon, borrowing from features that work for experienced hunters.Â
Christensen Arms Modern Carbon Rifle
The Modern Precision Rifle (MPR) represents a pinnacle of engineering and lightweight design. The Carbon variant of this rifle series stands out as a remarkable achievement in modern firearms manufacturing, combining cutting-edge materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and outstanding performance.
Starting with a miraculously lightweight yet incredibly durable FFT carbon-fiber stock, the rifle features an adjustable push-button FFT cheek riser, full-length M-LOK on the forearm, front and rear QD attachment points, adjustable length of pull via spacers, and an integrated forward Picatinny rail section.Â
Christensen’s MCR utilizes a Remington 700-style action topped with an optic-ready 20-MOA Picatinny rail. It features a skeletonized bolt handle with an FFT carbon fiber bolt knob, too.
Married to the action is a free-floating, hand lapped, button-rifled Christensen Arms Aerograde carbon-fiber barrel with a Match chamber and suppressor-ready threaded muzzle equipped with a premium side-baffle brake. Rounding out this powerhouse of a rifle is an ergonomically designed hybrid grip and a crisp, adjustable TriggerTech trigger.
Elite Trigger
This rifle’s trigger broke at a very consistent 3 pounds, 10 ounces. We learned this with an MCR that was used in testing for a recent Ballistic’s Best Hunting Rifle challenge. This along with other accurizing features gave this rifle bragging rights in the accuracy department.Â
Shooting the 6.5 Creedmoor, all three experienced evaluators produced multiple sub-MOA groups with the rifle. This rifle preferred Hornady 143-grain ELDX hunting loads and recorded five-shot groups at 100 yards as small as 0.562 inches. All three shooters’ best groups culminated in a 0.766-MOA average.
This rifle’s $2,400 MSRP is pretty strong for a rifle with this much carbon and a light weight of 6.7 pounds. To give some perspective on the price of this rifle, take into account that a carbon-fiber barrel for your own custom rifle would set you back $800 to $1,100, and you would wait six to eight months for delivery. Christensen makes all of their barrels in house.
The Build
The hallmark of the Christensen Arms Modern Carbon Rifle is its revolutionary construction. Utilizing advanced carbon-fiber technologies, the rifle achieves an incredibly light weight without compromising structural integrity or accuracy. The carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel and trim receiver create a remarkably lightweight platform that doesn’t sacrifice durability or precision. A typical Modern Carbon Rifle weighs substantially less than traditional metal-constructed rifles, making it an exceptional choice for hunters, long-range shooters, and tactical enthusiasts who value mobility and performance.
The 6.5 Creedmoor version tested performed exceptionally well, but the 7mm PRC variant represents a particularly compelling configuration. This chambering offers several significant advantages for hunters and long-range shooters. The 7mm PRC delivers exceptional ballistic performance, with flat trajectory and minimal wind drift, making it ideal for extended-range shooting scenarios. Its superior sectional density and high ballistic coefficient allow for exceptional downrange energy retention and accuracy.
Christensen Arms Modern Carbon Rifle Key Specs:
- Lightweight carbon-fiber construction
- Precision-machined bolt action
- Adjustable match-grade trigger
- Modular design allowing for multiple caliber conversions
- Sub-MOA accuracy guarantees
- Versatile mounting options for optics and accessories
The Construction
The rifle’s construction process is a testament to modern manufacturing techniques. Christensen Arms employs advanced computer numerical control (CNC) machining combined with precise hand-fitting to ensure each rifle meets exacting standards. The carbon-fiber components are created through advanced layup techniques that strategically place carbon-fiber materials to maximize strength while minimizing weight.
For the 7mm PRC version, the rifle offers exceptional long-range capabilities. The cartridge itself is designed to bridge the performance gap between existing 6.5mm- and .300-caliber options, providing hunters and precision shooters with an optimal balance of trajectory, energy, and terminal performance. Typical 7mm PRC loads can push 160-grain bullets at approximately 2,950 feet per second, delivering exceptional downrange performance.
Six choices in chamber for the MRC let you pick a either a newer cartridge or a classic favorite. In addition to the 6.5 Creedmoor, it comes in 6.5 PRC, the previously mentioned 7mm PRC, .308 Win, .300 Win Mag and .300 PRC.
The Action
The bolt-action mechanism represents another area of excellence. Christensen has engineered a smooth, reliable system that provides consistent lock-up and precision. The bolt features three massive lugs, providing robust support and alignment. Tolerances are held to extremely tight specifications, ensuring remarkable accuracy potential.
Ergonomics play a crucial role in the Modern Carbon Rifle’s design. The stock is crafted to provide an optimal shooting platform, with adjustable length of pull and cheek rise. This allows shooters to customize the rifle to their specific body mechanics, enhancing shooting comfort and potential accuracy.
The carbon-fiber barrel is another standout feature. Unlike traditional steel barrels, the carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel offers exceptional rigidity while significantly reducing overall weight. The barrel’s construction helps mitigate heat-induced harmonic vibrations, contributing to consistent shot-to-shot performance.
Lightweight Platform
Hunters will appreciate the rifle’s lightweight design, which becomes increasingly valuable during extended backcountry expeditions. A rifle that weighs several pounds less than traditional hunting rifles can make a substantial difference in comfort and mobility, especially when traversing challenging terrain.
For competitive shooters and long-range enthusiasts, the Modern Carbon Rifle offers exceptional out-of-the-box accuracy. Many configurations can achieve consistent sub-MOA performance, meaning groups smaller than one inch at 100 yards.
Pricing for the Christensen Arms Modern Carbon Rifle reflects its high-end design and manufacturing. While not inexpensive, the rifle represents a significant investment in performance, offering professional-grade capabilities for serious shooters and hunters.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Maintenance considerations are minimal compared to traditional rifle designs. The carbon-fiber construction resists corrosion and environmental challenges more effectively than traditional metal constructions. However, standard firearm maintenance practices remain important to ensure long-term reliability and performance.
The Christensen Arms Modern Carbon Rifle, particularly in this shooter’s new favorite 7mm PRC, represents the culmination of advanced materials science, precision engineering, and a deep understanding of shooter requirements. It stands as a testament to modern firearm design, offering unprecedented performance in a remarkably lightweight package.
For hunters, competitive shooters, and firearms enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of precision rifle design, the Christensen Arms Modern Carbon Rifle offers an extraordinary combination of performance, weight reduction, and manufacturing excellence.
For more info, visit christensenarms.com.
