Description
Barrett built its name on rifles that hit far away and hold up to abuse, and the MRAD is the platform that proved a folding stock precision rifle could go toe to toe with anything on the firing line. This version comes chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor with a 24 inch fluted barrel and a 1:8 twist that stabilizes the long, high BC bullets the cartridge is known for. The whole rifle wears a Flat Dark Earth Cerakote finish over a monolithic upper receiver machined from 7000 series aluminum, and the two port muzzle brake up front takes the edge off what little recoil 6.5 Creedmoor produces in a rifle this substantial.
Why the MRAD Platform Stands Apart
The headline feature here is the user-changeable barrel system. Loosen two bolts with a standard Torx wrench and the barrel comes out, which means you can swap calibers or barrel lengths at home without ever visiting a gunsmith. The trigger is a self-contained match grade module that drops out for cleaning or adjustment, and it breaks clean while still being drop-fire proof. Controls are genuinely ambidextrous too, with a paddle-style magazine release you can run without breaking your firing grip and a thumb safety that swaps to either side.
A Folding Stock That Gives Up Nothing
Plenty of folding stocks feel like a compromise. This one locks up as rigid as a fixed stock when extended, and when folded it latches around the bolt handle so nothing rattles loose in transport. Length of pull adjusts to five positions at the push of a button, and the cheek riser dials in without tools, so getting behind the 21.75 inch top rail with its built-in 20 MOA taper is comfortable for just about any build.
Feeding the Barrett MRAD 6.5 Creedmoor
It feeds from a 10 round magazine for a 10+1 capacity, and the M-LOK style mounting points at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock on the handguard give you room for a bipod, night vision bridge, or whatever else your shooting demands. Whether you are chasing hits at a mile or working a PRS stage, this rifle was designed to be configured around you.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Barrett Firearms
- Model: MRAD
- Manufacturer Part Number: 18497
- UPC: 810021510637
- Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
- Action: Bolt Action
- Barrel Length: 24 in, fluted
- Twist Rate: 1:8
- Capacity: 10+1
- Muzzle Device: 2-Port Muzzle Brake
- Stock: Folding, adjustable LOP and cheek riser
- Finish: Flat Dark Earth Cerakote
- Receiver: 7000 Series Aluminum, Monolithic Upper
- Top Rail: 21.75 in Picatinny with 20 MOA taper
- Safety: Ambidextrous, Swappable Thumb Safety
- Sights: Optic Ready
What’s Included
- Barrett MRAD 6.5 Creedmoor rifle
- One 10-round magazine
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the barrel on the Barrett MRAD myself?
Yes, and that is the heart of the MRAD design. The barrel is removed by loosening two bolts with a standard Torx wrench, no gunsmith needed. That lets you convert to other calibers or barrel lengths on the same receiver, so one rifle can cover multiple roles.
Is the folding stock on the MRAD as stable as a fixed stock?
When extended, the stock locks into place with a rigidity that matches a fixed stock rifle, so you are not giving up consistency for portability. When folded, it latches around the bolt handle to keep everything secure in a case or pack. Length of pull adjusts to five positions with one button and the cheek riser adjusts without tools.
Does the Barrett MRAD 18497 come with iron sights or an optic?
No, this rifle ships optic ready with no sights installed. The upper receiver features a 21.75 inch Picatinny rail with a built-in 20 MOA taper, which gives you extra elevation for stretching the 6.5 Creedmoor out to long range. There is plenty of rail estate for a scope plus clip-on night vision if that is your thing.
Is this MRAD friendly for left-handed use?
Very much so. The thumb safety can be configured for left or right side operation, and the paddle-style magazine release works from either side without breaking your cheek weld. It also accepts standard AR-15 pattern pistol grips, so you can set the ergonomics up however you like.





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