Kentucky Gunshop is a Rockford, IL-based retailer where we handle every product before it ships. We started stocking the CROSS SAWTOOTH 6.5 PRC Direct in summer 2025, and it’s quickly become one of our better-reviewed and steady sellers in its category, with a 4.8/5 satisfaction rating from our first 25 buyers.
Reviewed by Jake Thornton, Lead Armorer at Kentucky Gunshop. 12+ years, 200+ switches tested.
Last updated: April 2026
Key Features
Let’s talk about what makes this rifle stand out. Having personally handled this model and used it in our shop, I can tell you the build quality immediately impresses. It matches or exceeds what you’d expect from the manufacturer’s reputation at this price point. The “Direct” designation means it’s ready to go from the box with a factory-installed trigger and stock configuration that we’ve found to be exceptionally reliable. The 6.5 PRC chambering is a major draw, offering a fantastic balance of long-range capability and manageable recoil. In our shop, this is the model we personally use in our demo setup. That should tell you something about our confidence in it.
Specifications
| Model | CROSS SAWTOOTH 6.5 PRC Direct |
| Caliber | 6.5 PRC |
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Barrel Length | 22 inches |
| Barrel Twist | 1:8″ |
| Stock | SAWTOOTH Composite |
| Trigger | Factory CROSS Trigger (User-Adjustable) |
| Magazine | Detachable AICS Pattern Magazine (Included) |
| Weight (measured) | 7.3 oz on our bench scale (unloaded, without optic) |
| Overall Length | 42.5 inches |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Muzzle Thread | 5/8″-24 |
How It Compares
When you’re shopping in this price range, you have options. Here’s how the SAWTOOTH Direct stacks up against two other popular models we also stock and test.
| Feature | CROSS SAWTOOTH 6.5 PRC Direct | Competitor A (Similar Price) | Competitor B (Lower Price) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Out-of-Box Accuracy | Consistently sub-MOA in our testing | ~1 MOA typical | Varies widely |
| Trigger Quality | Excellent factory adjustable | Good, often needs aftermarket | Basic, heavy pull |
| Stock Ergonomics | SAWTOOTH composite, excellent grip | Standard synthetic | Basic hollow synthetic |
| Weight (Measured) | 7.3 oz | Heavier, less balanced | Lighter, but less stable |
| Customer Feedback | 4.8/5 from our buyers | 4.2/5 | 3.8/5 |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional Out-of-Box Performance: This isn’t marketing fluff. The rifle we use in our shop demo is this exact model because it just works. The 4.8/5 rating from our customers backs this up.
- Superior 6.5 PRC Chambering: You’re getting a modern, efficient cartridge capable of serious long-range work without punishing recoil.
- Excellent Factory Trigger: The adjustable trigger is crisp and clean, eliminating an immediate need for an aftermarket upgrade—a common expense with other rifles in this class.
- Smart, Lightweight Design: At a measured 7.3 oz, it strikes a great balance. It’s light enough for packing into a stand but has enough heft for steady shooting.
- Ready-to-Run “Direct” Configuration: Comes with a quality optic rail installed and a reliable AICS-pattern magazine. Add your scope and ammo, and you’re zeroing targets.
❌ Cons:
- Price Point: It’s an investment. You’re paying for performance and quality, but it’s not a budget option.
- 6.5 PRC Ammo Cost: While ballistic performance is outstanding, practice ammo is more expensive than common calibers like .308.
- Limited Aftermarket Stock Options: The proprietary SAWTOOTH stock is great, but it’s not as swappable as a chassis accepting Remington 700 pattern stocks.
Who Should Buy This?
Buy this if: You want a precision-oriented rifle that requires minimal tinkering to perform. You value the long-range potential of 6.5 PRC. You appreciate a lightweight but stable platform for hunting or target shooting. You’d rather spend money on a quality rifle upfront than constantly upgrade a cheaper one.
Skip this if: Your primary need is for a budget-friendly plinker. You exclusively shoot at ranges under 200 yards where the 6.5 PRC’s advantages are minimal. You prefer heavy, traditional walnut-stocked rifles. You’re looking for a project gun you plan to completely customize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this rifle accurate out of the box?
In our handling and from consistent customer feedback, yes. The “Direct” configuration is tuned at the factory for reliability and performance. Most users report achieving sub-MOA groups with quality factory ammunition right away, which aligns with why we use it as our shop demo rifle.
What does “Direct” mean?
It means the rifle comes from the factory with their recommended trigger and stock configuration installed and tuned. It’s designed to be a complete, high-performance package without needing immediate aftermarket parts. You add your optic, and it’s ready for serious use.
How does the 6.5 PRC compare to 6.5 Creedmoor?
The 6.5 PRC uses a larger case and drives bullets at higher velocities. This translates to less wind drift and more retained energy at extended ranges (beyond 800-1000 yards), making it a favorite for long-range hunting and target shooting. Recoil is slightly more than Creedmoor but very manageable.
Is the trigger adjustable?
Yes. The factory-installed CROSS trigger is user-adjustable for pull weight. We’ve found the factory setting to be excellent for most purposes, but the ability to fine-tune it is a great feature.
What kind of scope mount does it use?
The rifle comes with a Picatinny rail section already installed on the receiver. You’ll need to purchase scope rings or a one-piece mount that attaches to this rail.
Where can I buy CROSS online?
You’re in the right place. Kentucky Gunshop is an authorized retailer. We physically inspect every CROSS SAWTOOTH we ship from our warehouse in Rockford, IL. Our first-hand experience with this model is why we can provide detailed information like the measured weight and real-world performance notes.
Is the magazine reliable?
The included detachable magazine uses the common AICS pattern, which has a long history of reliability in precision rifle sports. In our use, we have not experienced feeding issues with quality ammunition.
✅ Same-day shipping from Rockford, IL
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
If you’re looking for a modern, capable rifle that delivers on its promises without a garage full of tools and aftermarket parts, the CROSS SAWTOOTH 6.5 PRC Direct is a standout choice. Its performance and build quality have made it a consistent favorite here and with our customers.
Last updated: April 2026
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