For the American hunter or precision shooter who demands a rifle that performs as reliably in the field as it does on the range, the Bergara Premier Highlander in 6.5 Creedmoor offers a blend of accuracy and practicality. Whether you are tracking mule deer across Western public lands or punching steel at 800 yards, this rifle is built to handle the varied conditions of the U.S. landscape. Its fiberglass camo stock and stainless Cerakote finish are not just for aesthetics; they are functional choices for those who spend long hours in wet timber or dusty prairie.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
The Bergara Premier Highlander is a bolt-action rifle designed for the serious shooter who values consistency and durability. This model is chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, a cartridge that has become a standard for long-range target work and medium-game hunting across the United States. It is intended for target shooters who need sub-MOA accuracy out of the box, as well as hunters who require a lightweight, weather-resistant platform for backcountry trips. This rifle is not a home defense tool; it is a precision instrument for the range and the field. Collectors will also appreciate the Premier line’s attention to detail, though this rifle is built to be used, not stored.
Key Spec Breakdown
- Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor – a flat-shooting, low-recoil round suitable for target shooting and hunting game up to the size of elk with proper bullet selection.
- Action: Bergara Premier action, based on a modified Remington 700 footprint, offering smooth cycling and aftermarket compatibility.
- Barrel Length: 24 inches – a standard length that balances velocity with maneuverability in the field.
- Barrel Profile: #5 taper, stainless steel with Cerakote finish for corrosion resistance and reduced glare.
- Stock: Fiberglass with a camo pattern (typically a variation of Mossy Oak or Kryptek), featuring a full-length aluminum bedding chassis for rigidity.
- Finish: Stainless Cerakote on the barrel and receiver, providing a tough, low-maintenance surface that withstands moisture and abrasion.
- Magazine Capacity: 4-round detachable box magazine, flush-fitting with the stock.
- Weight: Approximately 8.5 to 9 pounds (unloaded), depending on stock configuration.
- Sights: No iron sights; the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases (Remington 700 pattern).
- Trigger: Bergara Performance Trigger, adjustable from approximately 1.5 to 3.5 pounds.
- Safety: Two-position safety located on the bolt shroud.
Feature Deep-Dive
The Bergara Premier Highlander’s barrel is cold-hammer-forged from 4140 stainless steel, a process that compresses the steel to create a dense, uniform bore. This method, combined with a hand-lapped finish, reduces friction and fouling, which translates to consistent accuracy across multiple shooting sessions. The 24-inch length is a practical compromise: it provides enough barrel to fully burn the 6.5 Creedmoor’s powder charge for optimal velocity, while remaining short enough to carry through brush or in and out of a truck cab. The #5 contour is a medium-heavy profile that dissipates heat effectively during extended range sessions without adding excessive weight for hunting.
The fiberglass stock is a key element of the Highlander’s design. Unlike synthetic stocks that can flex under pressure, the fiberglass is reinforced with a full-length aluminum chassis that beds the action and barrel. This rigid structure ensures that the rifle maintains its zero even when the stock is subjected to uneven pressure from a sling or a bipod. The camo finish is applied during the molding process, so it will not wear off with use. The stock also features a soft rubber buttpad and a textured grip area for a secure hold in wet conditions.
The Bergara Premier action is a controlled-round-feed design that shares the same footprint as the Remington 700. This means that the Highlander will accept a wide range of aftermarket triggers, stocks, and scope bases without needing custom gunsmithing. The action is machined from a solid steel bar and features a coned breech that guides the cartridge smoothly into the chamber. The bolt has a 90-degree lift, which provides ample clearance for larger scope bells and allows for fast cycling when needed. The fluted bolt body reduces weight and helps clear debris from the raceways.
The trigger system on the Highlander is a two-stage design that can be adjusted by the user. The first stage takes up the slack, and the second stage breaks cleanly with minimal overtravel. This allows the shooter to set the pull weight to their preference, whether they want a lighter trigger for precision bench work or a slightly heavier pull for cold-weather hunting with gloves. The trigger is also designed with a safety blade that prevents firing if the rifle is dropped.
The Cerakote finish on the barrel and receiver is applied in a matte stainless color, which reduces glare that can alert game or give away your position on the range. Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating that is more resistant to solvents, scratches, and corrosion than standard bluing or parkerizing. This finish is particularly useful for shooters who operate in humid environments or near saltwater, as it provides a reliable barrier against rust. The magazine is a flush-fit, detachable box that holds four rounds of 6.5 Creedmoor. It releases via a push-button latch located at the front of the trigger guard, allowing for quick reloads without removing the shooter’s firing hand from the grip.
Ideal Use Cases
The Bergara Premier Highlander is best suited for two primary roles: precision target shooting and hunting. On the range, the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge and the rifle’s inherent accuracy make it a solid choice for shooting groups at 100 to 1,000 yards. The adjustable trigger and rigid stock support consistent shot placement, whether you are working on fundamentals or competing in local PRS-style matches. For hunting, the Highlander is appropriate for open-country pursuits where shots may range from 200 to 600 yards. The 6.5 Creedmoor offers enough energy for deer, antelope, and similar-sized game, and the rifle’s weight is manageable for a day of hiking. This rifle is not intended for concealed carry or home defense; its length and weight make it impractical for those roles. It is a dedicated field and range tool.
Compatibility Notes
The Bergara Premier Highlander uses a standard Remington 700 scope base pattern, which means any two-piece or one-piece base designed for a Remington 700 short action will fit. For ammunition, the rifle is chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor and will function with factory loads from major U.S. manufacturers such as Hornady, Federal, and Nosler. Reloaders will find that the chamber is cut to SAAMI specifications, allowing for a wide range of bullet weights from 120 to 147 grains. The detachable magazine is proprietary to Bergara, but additional magazines are available from the manufacturer. For slings, the stock is equipped with sling swivel studs that accept standard 1.25-inch swivels. The barrel is threaded 5/8×24 for muzzle brakes or suppressors, though a thread protector is included. Holsters are not applicable to this rifle.
FAQ Section
1. Can you ship this rifle to my address in the United States?
No, we cannot ship a firearm directly to your home. Federal law requires that all rifles be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. Once the rifle arrives at your chosen FFL dealer, you will complete the standard ATF Form 4473 and a background check before taking possession. We ship to all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, as long as the receiving FFL is willing to accept the transfer.
2. How does the FFL transfer process work with your store?
After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm the name and address of your local FFL dealer. You can provide this information during checkout or by replying to our order confirmation email. We verify the FFL’s license with the ATF before shipping. Once the rifle ships, you will receive a tracking number. The transfer fee charged by your local FFL is not included in our price and is paid directly to them when you pick up the rifle.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this rifle?
This rifle is chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition that meets SAAMI specifications. It will safely fire all factory-loaded 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition from reputable manufacturers. We recommend using ammunition with bullet weights between 120 and 147 grains for optimal accuracy. Do not use 6.5mm Grendel, .260 Remington, or any other cartridge in this rifle. For hunting, select a bullet designed for medium game, such as the Hornady ELD-X or Nosler AccuBond.
4. What is the warranty on the Bergara Premier Highlander?
Bergara provides a lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This covers the barrel, action, stock, and trigger. The warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or the use of incorrect ammunition. If you experience a defect, contact Bergara directly with proof of purchase. As an authorized dealer, we can assist with warranty claims if needed.
5. Can I return this rifle if I change my mind?
All firearm sales are final due to federal regulations and safety considerations. We cannot accept returns on firearms for reasons of personal preference. If the rifle arrives damaged or with a factory defect, we will work with you and Bergara to resolve the issue. Please inspect the rifle at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer. If you have questions about the rifle’s specifications before purchasing, contact us and we will provide additional details.
Closing CTA
This Bergara Premier Highlander is in stock and ready to ship to your chosen FFL dealer anywhere in the United States. If you have questions about the rifle or need assistance locating a receiving FFL, contact our team. We ship within one business day of FFL verification.
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