Fierce Mountain Reaper 2.0 in 7mm Backcountry Tops 3,000 fps at Under 7 lb

The short version: Fierce has paired its Mountain Reaper 2.0 with Federal's 7mm Backcountry, and the result is a folding-stock hunting rifle under 7 pounds that still pushed 170-grain bullets past 3,000 fps from a 20-inch barrel in Athlon's testing.

Deal check: See today's lowest prices on 7mm Backcountry ammo at GunDeals →

Lightweight mountain rifles have long asked hunters to trade shootability for a lighter pack. Fierce's answer is a mix of exotic materials: the two-lug action is titanium, the C3 barrel is wrapped in carbon fiber, the chassis is magnesium and the stock is carbon fiber that folds along the right side. Athlon's reviewer called it the best folding stock he has tested, and said the rifle balances well instead of feeling muzzle-light.

The cartridge is the other half of the story. Federal's 7mm Backcountry uses a steel-alloy case that runs at higher pressures than brass allows, which is how it reaches magnum-class speed without the 24- to 26-inch barrel such rounds usually need. That makes a short, suppressor-ready package more practical for hunters who fly, ride an ATV or carry the rifle in a pack.

For buyers, the testing also shows why ammo choice matters. Two Federal loads produced very different groups at 100 yards, so anyone spending this kind of money should budget for trying a few boxes before settling on a hunting load.

Key specs

• Chambering: Federal 7mm Backcountry
• Action: Fierce titanium two-lug, 70-degree bolt lift, spiral-fluted bolt, detachable magazine
• Barrel: Fierce C3 carbon fiber, 20 inches, threaded; factory muzzle brake included
• Stock/chassis: folding carbon-fiber stock with adjustable cheekpiece on a magnesium chassis
• Trigger: TriggerTech
• Weight as tested: 6 lb 13 oz, empty
• Federal Premium 168-gr Barnes: 3,024 fps average, best 5-shot group 1.621 in. at 100 yds
• Federal Premium 170-gr Terminal Ascent: 3,070 fps average, best 5-shot group 0.726 in. at 100 yds
• Factory test target: 0.281-in. 3-shot group with 175-gr Federal Fusion Tipped

Summary by GunWinner based on reporting by Athlon Outdoors. Deal links are affiliate links; GunWinner may earn a commission. Prices change quickly, so confirm at checkout.