Range Report: Christensen Arms MHR Hunting Rifle

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Christensen Arms was founded in 1995 by Dr. Roland Christensen, an aerospace scientist, and initially focused on utilizing carbon-fiber materials to create lightweight, high-strength components for the aerospace and medical industries. Driven by his passion for firearms and a desire to revolutionize the industry, Dr. Christensen turned his attention to applying carbon-fiber technology to rifle barrels. In 1997, Christensen Arms introduced its first carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel, setting a new standard for accuracy, weight reduction and heat dissipation. This break-through technology quickly gained recognition and established the company as a pioneer in the field.

Eventually, Christensen Arms expanded its product line to include complete rifles based on its success with barrels. These rifles featured state-of-the-art stocks and precision components to offer shooters outstanding performance and accuracy. The combination of aerospace-grade materials and advanced manufacturing techniques solidified Christensen Arms’ reputation for producing premium firearms. Based in Gunnison, Utah, Christensen Arms continues to develop a diverse range of rifles, including hunting rifles, precision rifles and modern sporting rifles.

• Below: Christensen Arms MHR Shooting Results and Specifications

This year, Christensen Arms introduces the Modern Hunting Rifle (MHR), which includes even more cutting-edge technology. Standout features of the MHR are its Flash Forged Technology (FFT) components, which combine aerospace-grade materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to result in lightweight, durable construction that achieves a high level of precision.

Built on an aluminum mini chassis with V-block bedding, the Christensen MHR offers shooters accuracy, ergonomics and modularity. The MHR’s receiver and action assembly are custom-machined, and a Picatinny rail is included for mounting optics. The bolt has a black nitride finish with a skeletonized handle and carbon-fiber knob. Utilizing a heavier firing pin spring, the MHR’s proprietary TriggerTech trigger breaks cleanly and consistently, ensuring minimal disturbance to the shooters’ aim. The single-stage trigger is adjustable to suit individual preferences.

Christensen Arms is renowned for its expertise in carbon-fiber barrel technology. The MHR features a match-grade, hand-lapped 416R stainless steel barrel wrapped in a carbon-fiber sleeve. Its design significantly reduces barrel weight while enhancing stiffness and improving heat dissipation. The result is exceptional accuracy and consistency shot after shot, even under demanding hunting and shooting conditions. The barrel of the MHR features a 5/8x24 threaded muzzle and ships with a removable stainless steel side-baffle muzzle brake installed.

The MHR incorporates advanced ergonomics for enhanced comfort and function. The stock is thoughtfully designed with a palm swell and contoured grip, promoting a natural and secure hold. Length of pull and the height of the FFT cheekpiece are adjustable to enable a perfect fit for shooters of all sizes. Additionally, the grip, buttstock and forearm can be replaced with other options.

For testing and evaluation, I received an MHR chambered in 6.5 PRC. My first impression of the gun was that it was more futuristic than modern. I noted the rifle’s modular design; each element stood out on its own. After handling the rifle for a short period, it became easier to understand the functionality and modularity of the rifle as a single unit. Fit and finish were superb. Even better, the action functioned effortlessly, and the trigger was as crisp and clean as that of any factory rifle I have tested.

I selected the Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50 mm scope as the perfect complement to the MHR. After sighting in the rifle at 100 yards, I used the Burris Connect app to finalize a ballistic profile, set a digital zero and upload the data to the scope. For accuracy testing, I fired three, three-shot groups of Nosler Trophy Grade and Hornady Precision Hunter ammo. During my evaluation, the rifle performed flawlessly and both loads were impressively accurate, with all three-shot groups within Christensen Arms’ sub-MOA guarantee.

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After testing the rifle at 100 yards, I wanted to evaluate its long-range effectiveness as well as the features of the Veracity PH scope. I reset the scope’s zero in the Burris Connect app for my chosen load and sent the update to the scope via Bluetooth. Then I ranged a rock that was approximately 6 inches in diameter at 421 yards, set the heads-up display in the scope to that range, aimed and fired. The shot fractured the small rock into gravel.

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Any hunting rifle is greatly enhanced by a quality trigger, and the MHR’s trigger is stellar. The trigger was partly responsible for multiple sub-MOA groups, including an average 0.41-inch group size with the Nosler Trophy Grade ammo.

Although it’s a minimal factor in most hunting situations, the composite barrel dissipated heat quickly, which I’m sure also contributed to accuracy. I wouldn’t describe the MHR as a super-lightweight mountain rifle, but its weight was not overwhelming at 9.8 pounds with the Burris scope mounted.

The MHR’s look and feel grew on me. Its combination of chiseled modern lines, shapes and textures gives the rifle a unique, edgy look and feel. Still, its design is pragmatic.

The shapes provide a natural fit for any shooter, and the gun shoulders and maneuvers cleanly and efficiently. Available in several chamberings from 6.5 Creedmoor to .300 PRC, the MHR is a great choice for big-game hunters looking to take advantage of the latest manufacturing technology.

Christensen Arms MHR

• Info: christensenarms.com
• MSRP: $3,499.99
• Type: bolt-action centerfire rifle
• Caliber: 6.5 PRC (tested)
• Barrel: 22"; carbon-fiber-wrapped 416R stainless steel; muzzle brake
• Trigger: adjustable single-stage TriggerTech
• Safety: two-position toggle
• Magazine: internal with floorplate; 3-round capacity; convertible to AICS detachable box
• Sights: none; Picatinny base included
• Stock: aluminum mini chassis with FFT carbon fiber; adjustable length of pull, comb height, grip finish: desert brown Cerakote
• Overall Length: 43 1/2"
• Weight: 7.4 lbs.

Shooting Results

• Load: Nosler Trophy Grade ABLR
• Bullet Weight: 142 grs.
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,779 fps
• Average Group: 0.41"
• Load: Hornady Precision Hunter ELD-X
• Bullet Weight: 143 grs.
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,908 fps
• Average Group: 0.99"

NOTE: Muzzle velocity is the average of three consecutive shots fired through a Caldwell G2 chronograph at 10 feet. Accuracy is the result of three consecutive, three-shot groups fired from a sandbag rest at 100 yards.

• This article on hunting rifles was featured in the September 2023 Game & Fish Magazine. Learn how to subscribe.