First Look: CMMG’s MkW ANVIL Rifle in 6.5 Grendel

CMMG MkW ANVIL Rifle 6.5 Grendel video lead

CMMG’s MkW ANVIL line of high quality and accurate rifles just grew by one: the 6.5 Grendel. See it in action in the video below.

Based on the mid-sized receiver set, the new ANVIL is chambered in 6.5 Grendel. It provides excellent ballistics in a compact size, and high BC (Ballistic Coefficient) bullets extend its range beyond 600 meters. It’s a favorite for small predator and medium sized game hunters providing extended range and superior terminal ballistics.

RELATED STORY: Torn Down And Rebuilt: CMMG’s Mk47 Mutant

Advertisement — Continue Reading Below

CMMG brings its POWERBOLT technology to this MkW ANVIL, providing the optimum in strength and reliability. POWERBOLT utilizes an AR-10 based bolt and carrier that has been altered to work with mid-sized cartridges like the 7.62 x 39mm, .458 SOCOM, and now the 6.5 Grendel.

Rather than opening up a 5.56mm bolt, the POWERBOLT uses the larger .308 version, which provides superior strength and increased longevity. It also provides positive extraction and consistent ejection.

Mid-sized receivers add strength without adding much weight. The magwell fits any AR 15 style magazine designed to use 6.5 Grendel.

Advertisement — Continue Reading Below

Using Hornady 123 grain AMAX, it was soft shooting and accurate. Attaching NG2 Defense’s MZLMAX directed the blast forward while maintaining a flat shooting cycle allowing for superb accuracy.

The MkW ANVIL is one of the most reliable 6.5 Grendel chambered ARs I’ve tested to date. Using my Nightforce ATACR 4-16 power scope and Spuhr ISMS mount, it was accurate to 600 meters. Alexander Arms E-lander 24-round magazines worked perfectly for close and rapid fire work.

RELATED STORY: CMMG Adds 4 New Mk3 Rifles in 6.5 Creedmoor

Advertisement — Continue Reading Below

The 16.1-inch medium tapered 416 Stainless Steel barrel remains accurate while saving some weight. CMMG used a KeyMod handguard for rails and accessories.

The XFT2 model retails for $1,995 and includes a Geissele SSA-2 Stage trigger, MOE Pistol grip, and CTR stock and CMMG SV muzzle brake. My test rifle was coated in new Cerakote finish, available for $150 extra.

If you are a fan of the 6.5 Grendel you really need to take a look at the CMMG MkW ANVIL — its out-of-the-box strength, reliability, and excellent accuracy make it a great choice.

Advertisement — Continue Reading Below

For More Information

CMMG MkW ANVIL XFT2 Specifications

  • Caliber: 6.5 Grendel
  • Barrel: 16.1”, 1:8 Twist, Medium Taper, 416SS SBN
  • Muzzle: CMMG SV muzzle brake, Threaded 5/8-24
  • Hand Guard: CMMG RKM15 KeyMod
  • Upper Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 AL Mid-Size
  • Lower Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 AL Mid-Size
  • Trigger: Geissele SSA 2-Stage Trigger
  • Furniture: Magpul MOE Pistol Grip & CTR Carbine Stock with 6-Position Receiver Extension
  • Weight: 7.7 lbs (Unloaded)
  • Length: 33.5” (Stock Collapsed)
  • MSRP: $1,999.95
To top