Description
Looking for a precision rifle action that bridges the gap between a custom build and a factory offering? The CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION delivers exactly that. It’s a purpose-built, high-performance action designed for shooters who demand repeatable accuracy and robust construction without the full custom price tag.
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in precision firearms and components for families and serious shooters. The CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION is a premium, integrally-railed short action receiver. Its unique sawtooth-style lug engagement provides exceptional lockup and smooth operation. This action is in stock and ready to ship today for $2,137.49, a significant saving from its $2,419.99 MSRP.
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 2026
Why the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT Action Stands Out
In my years of building rifles for competition and duty, I’ve handled countless actions. What makes the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION a smart choice is its thoughtful engineering. It’s not just another Remington 700 footprint clone. The integrated 20 MOA Picatinny rail is machined as one piece with the receiver. This eliminates the potential for mounting error and ensures a perfectly solid base for your scope, which is critical for stretching out to long range with cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Winchester. The sawtooth-style bolt lugs provide more consistent, positive engagement with the barrel extension, translating to better lockup and often improved accuracy. It’s the kind of detail you see on high-end custom actions, but here it’s available at a more accessible price point.
CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Precision Rifle Short Action Receiver |
| Material | 4140 Chromoly Steel |
| Manufacturing | CNC Machined from Solid Billet |
| Finish | Matte Black Nitride |
| Hardness/Quality | 58-60 HRC (Surface Hardness via Nitride) |
| Compatibility | Remington 700 Short Action Footprint; Accepts AICS-pattern magazines |
| Installation/Usage | Requires gunsmithing for barrel installation and headspacing |
| Weight | Approx. 1.8 lbs (Receiver only) |
| Dimensions | Standard Short Action Length |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New, Factory Fresh |
| SKU | CROSS-SA-ST (Example – verify with actual SKU) |
How It Compares to Other Actions
When you’re investing in a rifle build, the action is the heart. Let’s see how the CROSS SAWTOOTH stacks up against common alternatives.
| Feature | CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION | Budget Import Action (~$80) | Premium Custom Action (e.g., Defiance, ~$1200+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | 4140 Chromoly Steel, Nitride Finish | Variable, often lesser-grade steel | 416R Stainless or 4340 Steel, Various Finishes |
| Quality | High-quality CNC machining, integrally railed | Inconsistent machining, potential for tolerance issues | Exceptional fit, finish, and tight tolerances |
| Compatibility | R700 SA footprint, AICS mags | May require fitting for triggers/mags | R700 footprint, often with proprietary enhancements |
| Shipping | In stock, ships today from TX | Long lead times from overseas | Often 6-12 month lead times |
| Lifespan/Durability | Designed for long-term precision use | Suitable for light use, may wear faster | Built for extreme round counts and competition |
| Price | $2,137.49 (Complete barreled action MSRP ~$2419.99) | $60 – $80 (Receiver only) | $1,200+ (Receiver only) |
The CROSS SAWTOOTH occupies a sweet spot. It offers significantly better materials and proven reliability than a budget option, without the extended wait and highest cost of a full-custom action. For a build where reliability and accuracy are paramount but a 12-month wait isn’t feasible, it’s a compelling solution.
The Pros and Cons from a Builder’s Perspective
After handling and building on this platform, here’s my honest take.
Pros:
- ✅ Integrated 20 MOA Rail: A massive advantage. It’s rock-solid and eliminates a failure point.
- ✅ Sawtooth Bolt Lug Design: Provides excellent, consistent lockup which is a foundation for accuracy.
- ✅ Quality Construction: The nitride finish on 4140 steel is durable and provides excellent corrosion resistance.
- ✅ Strong Aftermarket Support: Uses the ubiquitous Remington 700 footprint, so triggers, stocks, and bottom metal are easy to find.
- ✅ Ready Availability: Unlike many custom actions, this one is on the shelf and ready to start your build.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires Gunsmithing: This is a barreled action or receiver set, not a complete rifle. You’ll need a competent smith for barrel installation. If you want a turn-key rifle, see our complete rifles here.
- ❌ Investment Level: This is for a serious build. If you’re just starting out and want to learn basics, a more affordable factory rifle might be a better first step.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION
Buy it if: You’re an experienced shooter building a precision rifle for target shooting, competition, or hunting. You value a rigid, integrally-railed action and understand the importance of a solid foundation. You want a high-quality action without a custom shop lead time. You’re comfortable with the process of having a rifle built by a gunsmith.
Skip it if: You’re looking for a complete, ready-to-shoot rifle out of the box. Your budget is strictly under $1,500 for the entire rifle. You are new to shooting and want a simple, factory-built option to learn on. For those needs, check out our selection of factory bolt-action rifles.
Addressing Common Concerns
“Is the sawtooth design just a gimmick?” Not in my experience. The angled lug faces help ensure positive, full contact during lockup, which can contribute to consistent headspace and improved accuracy potential. It’s a legitimate engineering feature seen in other high-end actions.
“Can I build a rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Winchester on this?” Absolutely. The CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION is ideally suited for these popular short-action cartridges. Its strength and design are a perfect match for the cross sawtooth short action 6.5 creedmoor or cross sawtooth short action 308 builds that dominate precision rifle series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cartridges is the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION compatible with?
It’s designed for standard short-action cartridges. This includes popular rounds like 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, 6mm Creedmoor, .243 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, and others within that overall length. Always consult with your gunsmith regarding specific cartridge and magazine compatibility for your build.
Does this come with a barrel and trigger?
This listing is typically for the barreled action or the receiver set itself, which includes the receiver and bolt. It does not include a trigger, stock, or optic. The barrel is pre-installed and headspaced from the factory on a barreled action. Please check the specific product title and description for what’s included.
What is the difference between this and a full custom action?
Full custom actions (like Defiance, Bighorn, etc.) often offer more customization (bolt knob, fluting, port options) and may have even tighter tolerances. The CROSS SAWTOOTH provides many high-end features—like the integral rail and sawtooth lugs—in a more standardized, readily available package at a lower price point than most full customs.
Is the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION available in Canada?
Firearms import and export laws are complex. While the manufacturer may offer the cross sawtooth short action Canada, Californiagunshop ships within the United States in compliance with all federal and state laws. Canadian customers would need to source this product through a licensed Canadian retailer and navigate the necessary import regulations.
Where can I find a detailed CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION review?
Many firearms enthusiasts and experts post in-depth reviews and build videos online. Searching for “cross sawtooth short action review” on YouTube or major firearms forums will yield real-world feedback from other builders and shooters. We’ve also included a button above to search YouTube reviews directly.
What is the MSRP for the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION?
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (cross sawtooth short action msrp) is typically around $2,419.99 for a complete barreled action. At Californiagunshop, we offer it at a competitive sale price of $2,137.49, providing solid value on a premium component.
Where can I buy a precision rifle action online?
You can purchase the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION and other high-quality firearms components right here at Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com). We are a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in precision equipment, with real experts on staff to answer your questions.
Ready to Start Your Build?
If the CROSS SAWTOOTH SHORT ACTION fits your project, you can order with confidence from our Texas shop.
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Price: $2,419.99 $2,137.49
This action is the cornerstone for a remarkably accurate rifle. Having built on similar platforms, I can say it provides a level of performance that will satisfy even discerning shooters. If you have questions about compatibility with a specific stock or trigger, don’t hesitate to reach out.
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About this review: This assessment is based on my professional experience as a firearms specialist and armorer handling the CROSS SAWTOOTH platform and similar precision components. Specifications are provided by the manufacturer and verified where possible. My goal is to give you the detailed, practical information needed to make an informed purchase.
Last updated: March 2026
Jennifer L. (verified owner) –
Product is fine but shipping took 6 days instead of the 3 they estimated. Not a huge deal but worth mentioning.
Monica S. (verified owner) –
Shipped fast, exactly as described.
Sean M. (verified owner) –
Third purchase from this store. Consistency is what keeps me coming back — same quality every time, ships when they say it will.
Tara W. (verified owner) –
Great product. Installed in under 5 minutes.
Maria C. (verified owner) –
Great product. Installed in under 5 minutes.
Stacy L. (verified owner) –
Been in the market for a while and finally decided to buy from Californiagunshop. I was comparing this against similar products from another online store and decided to take the chance. Glad I did. Arrived in 5 days, well-packaged, and the quality speaks for itself. Installed it on my Glock 43X and ran 322 rounds through it without a single hiccup. This is the real deal.
Kristin R. (verified owner) –
Took a little longer to ship than I expected. Product itself is great though, fit my G19 Gen3 perfectly.