Faxon FX7 Pershing Bolt-Action Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor – Hands-On Review
Posted by RazorMP
When Faxon Firearms announced the FX7 Pershing, a precision bolt-action rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, it caught my attention right away. Built around a modular platform with serious performance potential, this rifle aims to compete with the heavy hitters in the long-range and PRS world. I had the chance to spend time with one firsthand — and here’s how it stacked up.
The rifle sent for testing came decked out with an aftermarket MDT/Faxon co-branded aluminum chassis and MDT Skeleton stock, complete with internal weight kits. Though this isn’t the base factory setup, it clearly showcased the rifle’s modularity and potential for customization.
The rifle felt solid, well-balanced, and purpose-built. At around 12.5 pounds and 44 inches in length, this configuration planted firmly on the bench and soaked up recoil. The bolt, made from flame-fluted 4340 carbon steel, cycled like it was gliding on butter — smooth and effortless, whether running it slow or fast.
The FX7 features a 70-degree bolt throw and a six-lug design arranged in two rings of three, giving it a strong, consistent lock-up. Built on the Remington 700 footprint, it’s compatible with a wide array of aftermarket stocks, triggers, and magazines — including both AICS and AW-style mags. That’s a big win for shooters who like to tune their setup over time.
The factory TriggerTech Primary trigger for the Rem 700 platform came installed — and it was obnoxiously smooth (in the best way). The break was crisp, predictable, and completely free of creep or grit. It made both initial and follow-up shots feel natural and precise.
I also appreciated the included pistol grip. It had an enlarged trigger finger rest that helped isolate movement during the press — a thoughtful detail for precision shooting. It’s clearly right-hand oriented, though, and might not offer much benefit to left-handed shooters.
The 24-inch barrel is made from 416-R stainless, 5R button rifled, honed, lapped, and finished in salt bath nitride for added durability. It’s capped with a recessed target crown and threaded 5/8x24, making it suppressor- or brake-ready. With a 1:8 twist rate, it’s optimized for stabilizing heavier 6.5 Creedmoor rounds — perfect for long-range work or competition use.
The caliber deserves its own spotlight. 6.5 Creedmoor has become a favorite among long-range shooters for good reason: it flies flat, retains velocity at distance, and handles wind better than traditional .308. Combine that with lower felt recoil and it’s a smart, balanced choice for competition, hunting, or extended range sessions.
While the MDT Skeleton stock was effective, I would’ve liked to see a folding option. PRS shooters might not care, but for those of us using rifles in dual-purpose roles, folding stocks make transport much easier. I also regularly use a rear rest bag for elevation adjustment, and a molded-in support or monopod option on the stock would’ve been a welcome addition.
The FX7 Pershing feels like more than just another bolt-action rifle — it feels like a serious entry into the precision market with the kind of modularity that lets shooters make it their own. From its buttery bolt throw to the crisp trigger and tuned chassis setup, it impressed me on multiple levels.
Whether you’re building a new long-range platform, entering PRS, or just want a rifle with out-of-the-box performance and upgrade potential — the FX7 deserves a look.
Affiliate Disclosure: This rifle was sent to me by Faxon Firearms for testing and evaluation. If you’d like to support the channel and check it out for yourself, you can use my affiliate link — it doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps keep content like this coming.
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