Description
The Barrett Model 98B in 6.5 Creedmoor is purpose-built for the American shooter who demands repeatable accuracy at extended ranges, whether engaging steel at a high-desert range in Arizona or managing a field of fire on a private ranch in Texas. This rifle bridges the gap between a dedicated precision platform and a practical field rifle, offering the long-range capability that U.S. shooters value for target work, varmint control, and competitive matches like PRS or NRL Hunter. With a 22-inch light barrel and a Flat Dark Earth Cerakoted receiver, it is designed to perform consistently under varied conditions, from humid Midwest mornings to dry Western afternoons.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Barrett Model 98B is a bolt-action precision rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, a caliber widely adopted by U.S. shooters for its flat trajectory and manageable recoil. It is equipped with a 22-inch light barrel, a 10-round detachable magazine, and a Flat Dark Earth Cerakoted receiver for corrosion resistance. This rifle is intended for target shooters who train at distance, hunters pursuing medium game such as pronghorn or whitetail deer, and collectors who value Barrett’s manufacturing pedigree. It is not a compact or lightweight option for concealed carry or home defense; rather, it is a platform for deliberate, accurate engagement at ranges where a standard AR-15 or hunting rifle loses effectiveness.
Key Specifications Breakdown
- Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor — a modern cartridge offering high ballistic coefficients and low wind drift, favored for long-range precision.
- Barrel Length: 22 inches — a light-profile barrel that balances portability with sufficient velocity for 6.5 Creedmoor loads out to 1,000 yards.
- Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds — a steel or polymer detachable box magazine, depending on production batch, compatible with AICS pattern magazines.
- Finish: Flat Dark Earth Cerakote — applied to the receiver for durability and reduced glare in field conditions.
- Weight: Approximately 11.5 to 12.5 pounds unloaded, depending on optic and mounting configuration.
- Overall Length: Roughly 44 to 46 inches, based on stock design and muzzle device.
- Stock: Fixed or adjustable stock (check current inventory for specific configuration) with an aluminum bedding block for receiver stability.
- Sights: No iron sights included; receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases (20 MOA rail typically included).
- Action: Two-lug bolt with 60-degree lift, featuring a controlled round feed and a fluted bolt body for smooth cycling.
- Trigger: Two-stage adjustable trigger, factory set around 2 to 3 pounds.
Feature Deep-Dive
The 22-inch light barrel on this Model 98B is a key differentiator from heavier varmint or competition barrels. It reduces overall weight for carrying across uneven terrain while maintaining the stiffness needed for consistent barrel harmonics. The light profile heats faster during sustained fire, but for the intended use—precision shots at moderate intervals—this is not a limitation. The barrel is button-rifled and hand-lapped at Barrett’s facility in Tennessee, ensuring bore consistency that supports sub-MOA accuracy with quality factory ammunition.
The receiver is machined from 4140 steel and treated with a Flat Dark Earth Cerakote finish. Cerakote provides a hard, thin coating that resists scratches, solvents, and UV degradation, which matters for shooters who store rifles in vehicles or use them in direct sunlight. The Flat Dark Earth color reduces visibility to game animals and offers a non-reflective surface that does not telegraph position. The receiver features a Picatinny rail for optics and a recoil lug interface that locks the action into the stock with minimal play.
Barrett’s two-lug bolt design uses a 60-degree lift, which allows for quick cycling without bumping a mounted scope. The bolt body is fluted to reduce weight and help channel debris away from the action. Controlled round feed ensures the cartridge is guided into the chamber from the magazine, reducing the risk of double feeds or rim damage. The extractor is a claw-type, and the ejector is a plunger, both proven in field use across Barrett’s military and law enforcement contracts.
The trigger system is a two-stage adjustable unit. Stage one takes up slack, and stage two provides a clean break. The factory setting is conservative for safety, but an armorer can adjust pull weight within a range of approximately 1.5 to 4 pounds. This allows the shooter to tune the trigger for their preference, whether that is a light pull for benchrest or a heavier pull for cold-weather hunting with gloves. The trigger shoe is wide and serrated for consistent finger placement.
The stock is designed for stability and repeatable cheek weld. It uses an aluminum bedding block that mates directly to the receiver’s recoil lug, eliminating the need for glass bedding. The forend is rigid and includes M-Lok slots for attaching bipods or sling swivels. The buttstock may include a length-of-pull spacer system or a cheek riser, depending on the specific variant in stock. This adjustability is important for shooters who use optics with different heights or who need to accommodate body armor or heavy clothing.
Magazine compatibility is a deliberate choice. The Model 98B uses AICS pattern magazines, which are widely available from multiple manufacturers in 5-, 10-, and 15-round capacities. This means replacement magazines are easy to source, and the rifle can be loaded with single rounds or from the magazine. The magazine release is ambidextrous and recessed to prevent accidental drops during movement. The floorplate is steel, and the spring tension is consistent across temperature ranges.
Ideal Use Cases
This rifle is best suited for long-range target shooting, where its 6.5 Creedmoor chambering and 22-inch barrel deliver consistent velocity and low wind drift. It is also appropriate for hunting medium game such as deer, antelope, and feral hogs at distances from 200 to 600 yards, provided the shooter uses expanding ammunition. The weight and length make it a poor choice for concealed carry or home defense, where a shorter, lighter firearm is more practical. It can be used in PRS or NRL Hunter competitions, though the light barrel may heat faster during rapid-fire stages. Collectors will appreciate the Barrett name and the rifle’s role as a production precision platform that does not require custom gunsmithing.
Compatibility Notes
The Model 98B in 6.5 Creedmoor is compatible with factory ammunition loaded to SAAMI specifications, including match loads from Hornady, Federal, and Lapua. Handloaders should note the 1:8 twist rate, which stabilizes bullets from 120 to 147 grains effectively. The rifle accepts AICS pattern magazines from Accurate-Mag, Magpul, and Barrett’s own production. Scope bases are included with a 20 MOA rail, and the receiver is drilled for 8-40 screws. Holsters are not applicable; the rifle is transported in a case or slung. Aftermarket accessories such as bipods, muzzle brakes, and cheek risers are compatible with the M-Lok slots and threaded muzzle (5/8×24 threads, standard for 6.5 Creedmoor).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is shipping handled to my address in the United States?
We ship this rifle via a licensed common carrier (UPS or FedEx) to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. You must provide the FFL’s contact information at checkout. We do not ship directly to residential addresses. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout and include insurance. We ship to all 50 states where the rifle is legal for sale.
2. What is the FFL transfer process for this rifle?
After you place the order, we will contact your chosen FFL to confirm they will accept the transfer. Your FFL must send us a copy of their license. Once we receive it, we ship the rifle. You then visit the FFL, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass a NICS background check. The FFL may charge a transfer fee, which is not included in our price. Please confirm with your FFL before ordering.
3. Can I use any 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition in this rifle?
Yes, this rifle is chambered for SAAMI-spec 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition. We recommend using factory loads from reputable manufacturers, especially for accuracy. Handloads should be within published pressure limits. The 1:8 twist barrel handles both light and heavy bullets, but we suggest testing several loads to find what your rifle prefers. Avoid using ammunition with excessive pressure signs or reloads of unknown quality.
4. What warranty does Barrett provide for this Model 98B?
Barrett Firearms Manufacturing offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or aftermarket modifications. If you encounter a problem, contact Barrett directly with your serial number. We also offer a 30-day return policy for unused rifles in original packaging, as described below.
5. What is your return policy for this rifle?
You may return this rifle within 30 days of delivery if it is unfired and in new condition with all original packaging and accessories. We do not accept returns on firearms that have been modified or show signs of use. To initiate a return, contact our customer service team for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Shipping charges for returns are the buyer’s responsibility. Refunds are processed to the original payment method once the rifle is received and inspected.
Closing Call to Action
This Barrett Model 98B in 6.5 Creedmoor is available now for shipping to your local FFL across the United States. If you have questions about stock, compatibility, or the ordering process, contact our team directly. We ship from our licensed location and ensure your rifle arrives safely and legally. Place your order to add this precision rifle to your collection or range kit.
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