CHRISTENSEN ARMS RIDGELINE
Posted May 26, 2023
in Real Guns
It’s no secret that Christensen Arms has become one of the premier rifle makers in the industry, offering a wide range of quality products from hunting and patrol rifles to precision tactical and long-range weapons. As great as their offerings already are, they have managed to find a way to elevate their line with the new Christensen Arms Ridgeline.
The Ridgeline is an exciting twist on the traditional AR-15 platform, combining the convenience and comfort of a lightweight design with the modern features of a long-range precision rifle. This rifle is built with the shooter in mind, and is designed to provide accuracy and reliability in even the most demanding of situations.
The Ridgeline starts off with a modern AR-style upper and lower receivers; both of which are constructed from aerospace grade 7075-T6 aluminum. This is then treated to a nice protective coating of Black Nitride (the same as used for handguns) to prevent against wear and tear. The upper and lower receivers are then mated together with an integral trigger guard for added strength and rigidity.
Next up on the Ridgeline is the barrel and handguard. The Ridgeline is offered with either an 18” or 20” 416R stainless steel barrel, both of which are fluted for increased accuracy and heat dispersion. The barrel is threaded 5/8x24 for easy customization, and comes standard with a Mil-Spec A2 birdcage flash hider. The handguard is a free-floating 15” M-LOK with a Picatinny rail running along the top. This being a Christensen Arms rifle, it also comes with their signature spiral-fluted free-float handguard with a full top rail and M-LOK slots for accessory mounting.
The stock of the Ridgeline is also well designed and adjustable for a comfortable fit. The stock offers four positions for easy adjustment of the length of pull. On top of that, it also features a rubber recoil pad for increased comfort when attempting long range shots. The pistol grip is a Timney AR15 grip with interchangeable palm swell for additional comfort.
The trigger of the Ridgeline is a Timney Triggers AR-15 Competition Trigger, which is widely considered to be one of the best triggers for an AR-style rifle. This trigger offers a short, crisp, and light trigger pull with minimal creep and no overtravel, making it a great choice for precision shooting.
Finally, the Ridgeline is designed with Christensen Arms’ signature Carbon Fiber Barrel Technology (CFC), which is essentially a lightweight free-floating carbon fiber barrel and handguard assembly designed to reduce recoil and improve accuracy. This is combined with a flat-faced trigger and three distinct stock positions for a comfortable and natural feel.
All in all, the Christensen Arms Ridgeline is a precision rifle designed with the shooter in mind. The lightweight design, Carbon Fiber Barrel Technology, adjustable stock, and Timney Trigger make this rifle one of the most comfortable and accurate AR-style rifles on the market. Whether you’re a hunter, competition shooter, law enforcement officer, or just an AR-fanatic, the Ridgeline has something for everyone.
It's easy to see why Christensen Arms has become one of the top AR-parts manufacturers in the industry. With the Ridgeline they have managed to take the traditional AR-15 platform and turn it into a modern rifle capable of extraordinary accuracy at long range. If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate, and lightweight rifle that makes a statement, then the Christensen Arms Ridgeline may just be the rifle for you.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Accuracy: The Christensen Arms Ridgeline is well known for its incredibly tight shot groups. The barrel and action design allows for high precision and consistent performance.
- Lightweight: The barrel and frame of the Christensen Arms Ridgeline are constructed of lightweight materials, making it easy to carry and use.
- Durability: Due to the use of premium components and effective steel alloy construction, the Christensen Arms Ridgeline is durable and rugged.
Cons:
- Cost: The Christensen Arms Ridgeline is one of the more expensive rifles on the market, priced at around $2,000.
- Limited Availability: The Christensen Arms Ridgeline is not widely available and can be difficult to find.
- Not Versatile: The Christensen Arms Ridgeline is primarily designed for precision shooting and is not suitable for hunting or larger game.
Who Should Buy
Anyone looking for a reliable, accurate bolt action hunting rifle should consider purchasing the Christensen Arms Ridgeline. It is designed for long range and precision shots, and is well built and reasonably priced. However, those that are on a budget and are looking for an entry-level rifle may want to look elsewhere. Additionally, the Ridgeline may not be suitable for those who prefer a lightweight rifle, as the Ridgeline is a bit heavier than some other options available.
Comparisons
| Christensen Arms Ridgeline | Similar Product 1 | Similar Product 2 | Similar Product 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 6.5 Creedmoor, 308 Win | 308 Win | 6.5 Creedmoor | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| Barrel Length | 22" Stainless | 20" Stainless | 22" Fluted | 22" Threaded |
| Finish | Cerakote- Burnt Bronze | Cerakote-FDE | Anondized-Tungsten | Matte Black |
| Stock | Adjustable Steel Blued | Carbon Fiber Thumbhole | Aluminum Pistol Grip | Polymer Fixed |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 6.7 lbs | 7.6 lbs |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: .308 WIN/6.5 CREEDMOOR
• Action: Christensen Arms Carbon Fiber Wrapped 416R Stainless Steel Match Grade Barrel
• Twist Rate: 1:11” (.308) / 1:8” (.6.5CM)
• Trigger: Adjustable Timney
• Weight: 6 lbs. 4 oz.
• Overall Length: 40”
• Safety: Three-position, Tang Safety
• Stock: Carbon fiber Monte Carlo with Adjustable Comb Height and Length of Pull
• Magazine: AICS-Style Magazines
• Barrel Length: 22” (Available in other lengths)
• Barrel Finish: Cerakote® Finish (Available in Multiple Colors)
• Muzzle: 5/8x24 Threaded Muzzle with Knurled Thread Protector
Popular Accessories
The most popular Christensen Arms accessories for the Ridgeline include an adjustable gas block, adjustable buttstock, muzzle brake, buffer tube, trigger guard, and scope mounts.
Accuracy
The Christensen Arms Ridgeline has a reputation for being incredibly accurate. It is built with match grade stainless match barrel and hand lapped bolt and receiver. It comes with a 3-lb trigger pull and adjustable three-position safety selector. The rifle is bedded and free floated which aides in the accuracy. The gunman can rest assured that the Christensen Arms Ridgeline comes with a 1/2"MOA accuracy guarantee. Test results have found that the Ridgeline is capable of .5 MOA with handloaded ammunition.
