OUR VERDICT

The advantages of a lightweight rifle as a hunting tool become more appealing as the years roll by. Not only does this reduction in weight serve to reduce fatigue on a long hill stalk, but rifles like the Christensen Arms Ridgeline utilise carbon-fibre features that also enhance performance.

Christensen Arms, based in Utah, US, has been at the forefront of carbon-fibre technology for years. Its innovative carbon-wrapped barrels are for custom rifle projects or as part of a purpose-built lightweight compact rifle such as this Ridgeline.

Its barrels are guaranteed to shoot less than 1in groups (MOA) at 100 yards, which was certainly true in the field tests. The carbon-fibre Sporter stock offers a lightweight solution to a more conventional rifle stock with the added bonus of great rigidity so that accuracy from the bedded action is maintained under recoil in any weather conditions.