Bergara B14 Wilderness Ridge Rifle Review – 6.5 Creedmoor

Before we get into this review, I want to say that I am in no way an expert in guns, ammo, or shooting. I’m your average run-of-the-mill hunter who enjoys shooting and can get a bit nerdy when it comes to researching things.

Now, because of that, I had not heard of Bergara Rifles until a couple of years ago. I was introduced to them by a friend, and I’m glad I was. I bought a Bergara B14 Ridge Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor and have been very impressed ever since.  Serious big-game hunters know quality when they see it (or shoot it).  The 6.5 Creedmoor is often considered a special purpose load that’s capable of extremely long range shots, especially with the high expectations from the Bergara barrel accuracy that we’ve come to expect.

The main thing Bergara is known for is its barrels. They’ve made barrels for several years now, and then just a few years ago started making complete rifles.  If you used to watch a lot of hunting shows, chances are you heard the slogan, “I shoot better, I shoot Bergara.”  Bergara makes several different styles and models of rifles that serve a variety of purposes. We went with the B14 Wilderness Ridge because it is on the lower end of the cost of Bergara rifles, and it had a threaded barrel. This version also actually came with an Omni muzzle brake on it.  There’s an assortment of aftermarket muzzle brakes on the market in case your hunting rifle isn’t already equipped with one.

Bergara B14 Ridge Rifle Specifications:

• Firearm Type: bolt action rifle
• Caliber: .308 Winchester
• Cartridge Capacity: 4 rounds
• Magazine: hinged floor plate
• Action: modified Remington 700
• Trigger System: adjustable
• Safety: two-position
• Barrel Length: 18 inches
• Barrel Finish: matte blued
• Rate of Twist: 1:10
• Muzzle: Threaded 5/8-24 w/thread protector
• Sights: none supplied
• Overall Length: 37.5 in.
• Weight: 7.2 lbs.
• Stock: synthetic

Bergara B14 Ridge Rifle Likes

One of the things I noticed immediately is how very smooth the bolt is on this rifle. Rifles I had prior to the Ridge had much stiffer and clunkier bolts. I actually didn’t realize a bolt could be as smooth as this one. The Bergara performance trigger is also very smooth to squeeze.

I’ve been impressed with how easy this gun is to shoot. As a 6.5 Creedmoor, there isn’t a great deal of recoil as it is. However, with that muzzle brake on the end of it, it makes it incredibly easy to shoot with minimal recoil.

The rifle itself is pretty lightweight but heavy enough to maintain control. With the scope on and full of ammo, my Bergara B14 Ridge rifle still weighs less than 10 pounds. The weight is also very well balanced, so it’s easy to carry.

On my particular rifle, there is a soft-touch finish. I’m very fond of that finish because it makes it easier to carry. This may sound strange, but I also think the soft-touch finish makes it so that it isn’t as cold to hold during the winter hunting season.

Bergara B14 Ridge Rifle Improvements

I do wish the Bergara B14 Ridge rifle had an adjustable length of pull. It’s just a bit too long for me, but we make it work. It’s not such a big deal when shooting off a bench or a rest when hunting, but it would be more comfortable, especially if I’m wearing a lot of thick clothing.

I also wish the cheek was elevated more – maybe like a Monte Carlo style stock. Then I may be able to actually rest my cheek on the gun when I’m shooting.

Which Rifle Does Bergara B14 Ridge Compare to?

When purchasing a rifle, sometimes it’s easiest to compare it to something similar and base your choice on the best fit for you.  Sometimes it’s quality, price, or name.  The Bergara is similar to the popular Remington 700 Rifle. In fact, the stocks are interchangeable.   The biggest advantage that the Bergara B14 has over the Remington is the barrel of course.  Bergara is known for making some of the best barrels in the industry.  Also, you will find that the action of the Bergara B14 is smoother than Remington 700.  If the Bergara B14 is out of your price range, you should consider the Remington 700 as you can pick up the 6.5 Creedmoor starting at a more affordable price of  $570.