25 CREEDMOOR ULTIMATE BACKCOUNTRY BUILD

Recently, Hornady released the 25 Creedmoor. The 25 CM, however, isn't particularly new and has been a favorite among wildcatters for years. (In February of 2024, our Marcus Horn posted an article discussing the history and advent of the middling Creedmoor child. Check it out here.)

The 25 CM bridges the gap between the 6.5 and 6mm diameters for both hunters and competitive shooters, offering favorable ballistics while minimizing recoil. For the guys at Muley Freak, the 25CM is the subject of their latest YouTube video, the ULTIMATE Backcountry rifle. The project's foundation centers around a Proof Research Sendero profile barrel. Note that it's not a Sendero-light profile, which only saves the user 2 oz. Initially, a 24" tube was selected, but Erik quickly pivoted to a 20" one to keep the overall package as compact as possible, especially when a suppressor is affixed to the muzzle. Part of the reasoning involved the choice of the MDT HNT26 chassis with a folding stock. Even with a suppressor attached, the 20" barrel and the chassis's folding stock keep everything compact when carried in a backpack while rucking in the mountains of the American West. The HNT26's feather-like weight and intuitive design make it a favorite among hunters and shooters. The chassis can be had with or without a folding stock and an integrated ARCA rail.

Next is the Muley Freaks edition of Stiller Precision's Wombat action. This custom action, branded in partnership with Muley Freaks, is adorned with the Muley Freak skull and special serial numbers (and can be bought here). The action weighs 23 ounces, features a skeletonized stainless steel action body, and maintains the tight tolerances for which Stiller is known—an excellent choice for any lightweight build. After assembly, the rifle with the suppressor and Nightforce Optic attached weighs just over 9 lbs.

Once assembled and with the scope mounted, it's time to shoot—this is where things get interesting. Erik has minimal experience shooting with a chassis, let alone an über-lightweight chassis like the HNT26. Erik claims that there was a relatively high learning curve. The reduced weight and slender profile do not lend themselves to small groups from a bench. He had difficulty anchoring the rifle, but his group sizes shrank once he settled in and began "driving" the weapon. This raises a larger question about shooting fundamentals (and maybe the topic of a future article!) and how they might need to be adapted to different systems (i.e., a PRS rig compared to a lightweight mountain rifle).

Regardless, this gun is impressive. Its lightweight design and compactness make it ideal for grueling backcountry hunts where every ounce matters. If this type of build interests you, or if you enjoy watching epic hunts, check out the Muley Freak YouTube channel. I can't wait to see this rifle in action.