Bergara B14 HMR Carbon Wilderness 6.5 Creedmoor - Precision, Lightweight, and Durable Hunting Rifle

The Bergara B14 HMR Carbon Wilderness 6.5 Creedmoor Hunting Rifle is an outstanding firearm for any sportsman or fan of long-range precision shooting. It is an exceptional choice for anyone interested in the precision and durability that define high-quality, long-range firearms.

Known for its lightweight design, rugged construction, and exceptional accuracy, the  Bergara B14 HMR Carbon Wilderness is a standout in the world of hunting and target shooting. In this review, I’ll share my personal journey with this rifle, including its performance at the range, insights on its design, and the overall user experience.

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An Exhilarating Start to 2024 at Shot Show

Early in 2024, I found myself sitting in the terminal of Las Vegas’s airport, waiting to depart after an exhilarating week at the SHOT Show convention in the Venetian Convention & Expo Center. This annual event is a paradise for firearms enthusiasts, bringing together manufacturers and vendors showcasing the latest innovations in equipment, tools, and modifications.

Over those packed days, I was thrilled by the volume of impressive and unique equipment, from groundbreaking designs to cutting-edge versions of classic models—all giving attendees a view into the future of shooting sports and hunting gear.

But as I looked back over everything I’d seen, I realized it had been a while since I’d truly returned to one of my earliest passions: long-range hunting. Don’t get me wrong—I enjoy the versatility and excitement of modern sporting rifles, handguns, and shotguns. Yet, there’s something about long-range, precision shooting that holds a special place in my heart, beyond just the shooting itself.

Those crisp autumn mornings spent whitetail hunting with my father in southern Montana still call to me, that sense of challenge and focus coming alive whenever I think back to those days.

Reflecting on Early Morning Hunts in Montana

Growing up, many of us remember those early, cold morning wake-up calls at 4 a.m., urged from bed to grab a quick breakfast and load up the truck. The 45-minute drive with my father to my grandfather’s farm often began with me barely staying awake, sometimes drifting in and out of sleep as we drove through the valley, greeted by the first glimmers of sunlight creeping over the Spanish Peaks, casting a warm glow through the valley around the Horseshoe Hills.

By the time we’d arrived, it was often just the right conditions for first light. Game would start making their way back from the Missouri River to the rugged, wooded hills to bed down in the ravines and hills for the day. I remember the thrill of chasing game, taking long shots, and the pride of bagging incredible bucks at 200, 300, or even 500 yards.

Realizing It’s Time to Reignite Long-Range Shooting

Those mornings weren’t just about bagging a buck; they were about building memories—those ones that stay with you, shaping who you are and the things you cherish. And those formative experiences never leave you. Standing in the terminal in Las Vegas, I realized it was time to reignite that part of my life. Even though the dense forests and hills of Washington offer a different landscape than Montana’s open, rolling valleys, I could still find my way back into the thrill of precision shooting, even if it meant just spending time at the range.

An Unexpected Encounter with a Fellow Shooting Enthusiast

Back in that Las Vegas airport terminal, I struck up a conversation with someone also heading to Washington. We talked about long-range shooting in Western Washington, shared a few stickers, and discussed the gear precision shooters are favoring today.

He mentioned rounds like the .338 Lapua and other magnums but noted that for those starting out in the PSR (precision shooting rifle) field, many shooters are drawn to the 6.5 Creedmoor.

Exploring the 6.5 Creedmoor and the Bergara HMR Carbon

Over the summer, I researched and found the 6.5 Creedmoor’s ballistics to be quite similar to the .25-06, a caliber I knew well. My father owned a .25-06, and he bought me my first hunting rifle in that caliber. They’re known for flat trajectories and exceptional long-range performance.

Finally, in 2024, I got my hands on a Bergara HMR Carbon, a carbon fiber 6.5 Creedmoor finished in Sniper Gray Cerakote. I likely spotted this rifle at the SHOT Show, as the company had displayed it at various conventions throughout the year.

This particular rifle showed some wear from use—a few scuffs here and there—but nothing that detracted from its visual appeal. The sleek carbon fiber barrel against the soft, detailed mini chassis made for a beautiful combination.

The HMR Carbon is impressively lightweight at 7.5 pounds and comes with a sub-MOA guarantee thanks to the carbon fiber barrel’s Cure No. 6 technology. The HMR’s molded mini chassis, coated in Sniper Gray Cerakote, is adjustable for both length and comb height. The rifle also comes in various calibers, including .308, 6.5 PRC, 7 PRC, and the venerable .300 Winchester Magnum. Being a longtime fan of American rifles, I was curious to see how this overseas competitor would stack up.

Preparing the Bergara for the Range

My current hunting rifle is a Ruger M77 Mark II. When I hit the range with a friend who owned a Savage chambered in .308, I brought along the Bergara, mounted with a Spartan Precision bipod and a Riton 5 Conquer 5-25x50 optic on Contessa scope rings. The setup looked exceptional and felt formidable.

Range Day 1: Dusting Off Skills and Rediscovering Precision

Excited, I headed to the range for my first session. I’ll admit it—it was humbling. Just like any skill, precision shooting requires consistent practice, and I quickly realized I’d let mine lapse.

The Bergara was impressive right out of the gate, but with the price of ammunition these days, it’s not exactly a rifle you want to practice with until your fundamentals are sharp.

To get back in the groove, I turned to my Ruger Precision Rimfire and spent the afternoon sending .22 rounds downrange, focusing on rebuilding my muscle memory and refining my technique. Unfortunately, my first box of ammo was around 15 years old and littered with “flyers.” This put a damper on the day, but before my second session, I picked up a fresh box of .22 Federals. Instantly, my experience improved; I was hitting tight groups and nailing 200-yard gongs with satisfying consistency.

Range Day 2: Testing the Waters with the Bergara HMR Carbon

With my confidence restored, I felt ready to try out the Bergara again. I started slow, testing the waters at 50 and 100 yards. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge was every bit as capable as I’d hoped. I found myself appreciating the clean, crisp break of the Bergara’s trigger, which was exceptionally consistent. On the third day, I took my practice to 300 yards—a modest range for this rifle’s capabilities but enough to feel its potential. The more I shot, the more I realized just how refined this rifle was.

The trigger on the Bergara is nothing short of a masterpiece. It reminds me of my dad’s old “hair trigger” hunting rifle, breaking cleanly with such little creep that every shot feels like a controlled surprise.

This is the type of trigger you want for precision work; the smooth, light action lets you keep your focus fully on the target without anticipating the recoil. Unlike triggers with more travel and heavier pull, which can lead you to subconsciously tighten up before the shot, the Bergara’s trigger allows you to fire with a relaxed and stable grip.

Range Day 3: Pushing the Limits and Fine-Tuning Setup

By day three, I had hit a groove, getting comfortable with the rifle’s weight and balance, the precision of the scope, and the stability offered by the Spartan Precision bipod. Each feature came together in harmony, making for an incredibly satisfying experience. The 6.5 Creedmoor, as expected, performed admirably in terms of ballistics, with minimal deviation even at longer ranges. In contrast to the .22 rimfire I’d been practicing with, which required substantial holdover at 300 yards, the Bergara needed only minor adjustments to maintain tight groupings at the same distance.

In terms of setup, I made a few minor adjustments to the comb height and length of pull to fit my frame better, using the adjustable features on the HMR chassis to create a custom fit that was both comfortable and functional. The stock itself is thoughtfully designed, with sling studs and quick-attach points on all sides, as well as a durable Sniper Gray Cerakote finish that’s not only practical for rugged environments but visually striking when paired with the rifle’s black receiver and carbon fiber barrel.

Assessing the 6.5 Creedmoor: Beyond the Hype

If you’re considering venturing into the world of precision shooting or long-range hunting, the 6.5 Creedmoor is worth considering. Its ballistic profile is well-suited to long-range applications, and it offers manageable recoil without sacrificing performance. Combined with the Bergara’s lightweight build, it makes for a rifle that’s easy to handle, even over extended shooting sessions. While some might argue that 6.5 Creedmoor lacks the punch for larger game, in my opinion, it’s a highly versatile round that performs exceptionally well when used with precision.

This lightweight, nimble 6.5 Creedmoor with minimal recoil and a crisp trigger felt fantastic to shoot. The chassis is fully customizable; I removed a pad from the buttstock to shorten it slightly and adjusted the comb by three-quarters of an inch for better eye alignment behind the scope. As I progressed, I raised the comb further to improve target acquisition at 25x magnification.

Trigger Precision

The trigger itself was refined, delicate, and incredibly consistent. It reminded me of my dad’s hunting rifle’s “hair trigger”—a crisp, clean break with almost no creep. This trigger performed as a high-grade rifle should. You don’t want to anticipate when it will break; you want it to surprise you, letting off at the exact moment the crosshairs are on target.

With heavier or less refined triggers, it’s easy to prepare for the shot, which tightens your muscles and can disrupt accuracy. But with the Bergara, I could zero in at 100 yards after three shots and then move to the 200-yard gong. My holdover at 300 yards was roughly three inches, and once I had it dialed in, my shots were tight and consistent. Compared to the .22LR I shot earlier, requiring a 38 MOA holdover, the Bergara’s 6.5 Creedmoor barely needed any.

Considering the Gear

If you’re considering a 6.5 Creedmoor, Bergara HMR, or the Riton 5 Conquer scope, there are some things to keep in mind. The Spartan Precision bipod, for example, isn’t just a tool—it’s a highly stable system that complements this rifle perfectly. Likewise, the Riton 5 Conquer scope’s clear glass and illuminated reticle are ideal for long-distance accuracy and quick adjustments.

Ammo Ballistic Performance

The 6.5 Creedmoor’s ballistic performance is exceptional, defying wind and holding level over long distances. The Bergara HMR Carbon Wilderness rifle is carefully crafted from receiver to barrel end. Its carbon fiber barrel and matte Sniper Gray Cerakote create a beautiful and consistent aesthetic. The chrome-fluted bolt is smooth and easy to manipulate, and the small paddle mag release, forward of the trigger guard, fits snugly. The stock, which has sling studs and QD points, adjusts easily.

Unique Advantages of the Bergara B14 HMR Carbon Wilderness

• Accuracy and Control: The Bergara offers a sub-MOA accuracy guarantee, allowing precise and repeatable shots.
• Lightweight Build: At 7.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry, making it perfect for extended hunting trips.
• Customizable Chassis: Adjustments to the length of the pull and comb height allow for a comfortable and precise fit.
• High-Quality Barrel: The No. 6 Cure technology barrel offers durability, stability, and lighter weight for improved shooting.

Areas for Improvement

The Bergara isn’t without minor drawbacks. For example, it’s impossible to remove the bolt without lowering the comb height, which can be a bit inconvenient. While the buttstock offers adjustable shims, some users might prefer more length-reduction options. Still, this is an exceptional rifle for anyone interested in precision shooting.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Bergara HMR Carbon Wilderness is a standout rifle, whether you’re at the range with friends or hunting whitetail for the winter. I’d even recommend it for elk hunting, though I know the 6.5 Creedmoor isn’t everyone’s choice for a large game. Also, it requires precise shots and a well-timed approach.

At just 7.5 pounds, it’s light enough for long treks in the woods, with the mini chassis providing an excellent shooting platform and minimal recoil, making follow-up shots manageable. I’m looking forward to returning to the range with my  AnechoX 30L suppressor to test its limits at 400 yards.

This rifle’s popularity in the American market is well deserved—it’s an incredible piece of equipment and my new favorite.