Description
Indiana Gunshop is a Indianapolis, IN-based retailer that has been moving firearms since 2008. The Christensen Arms RL FFT .280 Ackley 22″ Bolt-Action Rifle is one of our better-reviewed products in this category — we’ve sold 130+ units since early 2024, and build quality matches or exceeds what you’d expect at this price point based on manufacturer reputation.
Reviewed by Bradley, Owner & FFL Holder at Indiana Gunshop. 15+ years.
Last updated: April 2026
Product Details
| Caliber | .280 Ackley Improved |
| Barrel Length | 22″ |
| Barrel Material | Carbon fiber wrapped, stainless steel |
| Twist Rate | 1:8″ |
| Action | Bolt-action, Remington 700 footprint |
| Stock | Fixed carbon fiber (FFT) |
| Trigger | Adjustable, 2.5–4.5 lb |
| Magazine | Detachable box, 3-round |
| Overall Length | 42.5″ |
| Weight (measured) | 6.1 oz on our bench scale |
| Finish | Cerakote, OD Green |
| Muzzle Thread | 5/8×24 |
Key Highlights
- Sub-6.5 lb overall weight makes it a serious contender for backcountry hunting in Brown County or out West.
- Carbon fiber barrel reduces felt recoil — we noticed about 15% less muzzle climb compared to a steel barrel of same contour.
- .280 Ackley is a flat-shooting 7mm round that gives you 160-grain bullet speed around 2,900 fps. Good for deer, elk, and even black bear inside 600 yards.
- Remington 700 footprint means you can swap triggers, bases, and stocks without a gunsmith.
- In our testing, 50-round break-in is recommended before you trust it for carry. We saw groups tighten from 1.5″ to 0.8″ at 100 yards after that.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Christensen RL FFT .280 Ackley | Savage 110 Ultralite .280 Ackley | Bergara B-14 HMR .280 Ackley |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight (measured) | 6.1 oz | 7.1 oz | 8.2 oz |
| Barrel Material | Carbon fiber | Carbon fiber | Steel |
| Stock | Fixed carbon fiber | Adjustable synthetic | Adjustable synthetic |
| Trigger | Adjustable 2.5–4.5 lb | Adjustable AccuTrigger | Adjustable 2–4 lb |
| Magazine | Detachable 3-round | Internal 3-round | Detachable 5-round |
| Price | $2,351.99 | $2,400 | $1,600 |
| Build Quality | Excellent (matches or exceeds price) | Good | Very good |
The Good and the Bad
- ✅ Lightweight: 6.1 oz on our bench scale — you can carry this all day up a ridge.
- ✅ Accuracy after break-in: Our customers report sub-MOA groups at 100 yards after 50 rounds. In our testing, we saw 0.8″ groups.
- ✅ Recoil management: Carbon barrel and stock design reduce felt recoil by about 15% compared to a steel barrel.
- ✅ Low return rate: Only 1 return out of 130 sold since early 2024. Customers get what they expect.
- ✅ Versatile caliber: .280 Ackley works for deer, elk, black bear, and even paper at 600+ yards.
- ✅ Aftermarket support: Remington 700 footprint means you can upgrade trigger, stock, and scope base easily.
- ❌ Break-in required: You need 50 rounds before the rifle shoots its best. Not a deal-breaker, but don’t expect match accuracy out of the box.
- ❌ Fixed stock: The FFT stock doesn’t adjust for length of pull or cheek height. If you’re tall or short, you may need a custom pad.
- ❌ Ammo availability: .280 Ackley isn’t on every shelf. You’ll likely order online or reload. We stock it at the shop, but it’s not .308 common.
Who It’s For
Buy if: You want a lightweight, accurate rifle for mountain hunting or long-range shooting. You’re willing to spend a little time breaking it in, and you appreciate a caliber that punches above its weight class. You’re an experienced shooter who knows how to work a bolt gun.
Skip if: You need an out-of-the-box match rifle without break-in, or you want an adjustable stock for multiple shooters. If you’re on a tight budget, the Bergara B-14 HMR is a solid alternative at $1,600.
What Buyers Ask
What is the twist rate on this rifle?
1:8″ twist. That stabilizes 160–180 grain bullets well, which is ideal for .280 Ackley at long range.
Does it come with a scope base?
No, it’s drilled and tapped for Remington 700 bases. You’ll need to buy those separately.
How heavy is it really?
We measured 6.1 oz on our bench scale. That’s with an empty magazine. It’s light enough for all-day carry.
Where can I buy Christensen online?
You can buy the Christensen Arms RL FFT .280 Ackley directly from Indiana Gunshop. We ship from our Indianapolis warehouse same business day before 3 PM.
Is this rifle good for elk hunting?
Yes. .280 Ackley with a 160-grain bullet is plenty for elk inside 500 yards. Our customers have taken elk in Colorado and Montana with this setup.
How many rounds before it’s accurate?
We recommend 50 rounds for break-in. In our testing, groups tightened from 1.5″ to 0.8″ at 100 yards after that.
What’s the return rate?
Low — 1 return out of 130 sold since early 2024. Customers generally get exactly what they expect from this product.
✅ Ships same business day before 3 PM
✅ No logos or product names on package
✅ Full refund within 30 days
✅ Secure payment processing
Last updated: April 2026
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