Description
You’re staring at a thicket of Missouri timber, or maybe a dense overgrown food plot. You need a round that can punch through brush and deliver decisive energy on target at short to medium range—without the cost and recoil of a magnum rifle cartridge. That’s the niche the 450 Bushmaster fills, and the Radical Firearms Forged MHR is a purpose-built, budget-conscious platform to harness it.
The Radical Firearms Forged MHR 450 Bushmaster, 20″ Barrel, 6 Position MFT Minimalist Stock, Black, 7rd is a complete, ready-to-shoot modern hunting rifle built on a forged upper and lower receiver set. Chambered in the hard-hitting 450 Bushmaster, it features a 20-inch barrel for optimal velocity, a lightweight MFT Minimalist stock for maneuverability, and ships with a 7-round magazine. It’s a straightforward, value-oriented rifle designed for hunters who need reliable power in dense cover. At $921.94, it sits in a sweet spot between basic builds and premium-brand alternatives.
Let’s talk about the core of this rifle: the 450 Bushmaster cartridge. This straight-walled cartridge is legal for rifle hunting in many states with specific regulations, including certain Missouri zones. It launches heavy .452″ diameter projectiles—typically 250 to 300 grains—at moderate velocities, creating a massive wound channel ideal for deer and hog. The 20-inch barrel on this Radical model helps you squeeze out every bit of that potential velocity, giving you a flatter trajectory and more consistent energy downrange compared to shorter barrels. You’re looking at a system engineered for shots inside 250 yards where its power is undeniable.
The build uses forged 7075-T6 aluminum receivers, which is a solid foundation for a hunting rifle meant to be carried and occasionally bumped against a tree stand. The MFT Minimalist stock is a key feature for keeping weight down and handling quick; it’s a proven, lightweight component that shaves ounces and snags less on gear. The rifle operates on a direct impingement system and uses a standard carbine buffer tube, meaning many common AR-15 stocks and pistol grips are mil-spec compatible if you want to personalize later. The included 7-round magazine is specific to the 450 Bushmaster cartridge due to its unique profile.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a delicate precision instrument. It’s a working rifle. The trade-off for the attractive price point is that you get a no-frills, functional tool. The finish is a durable black anodize, not a showpiece cerakote. The trigger is a standard mil-spec single-stage, which is perfectly serviceable for hunting applications. The advantage? It’s drop-in ready. You can take it from the box, mount an optic using the Picatinny rail, head to the range to confirm zero, and be in the field without needing a gunsmith. That’s the core value proposition.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 450 Bushmaster |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length (Approx.) | 38.5-42 Inches (adjustable stock) |
| Stock | Mission First Tactical (MFT) Minimalist, 6-Position |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 Rounds (included) |
| Receiver Material | Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum |
| Handguard | M-LOK Compatible |
Pros: Delivers substantial hunting power at a very competitive price point. The 20″ barrel maximizes cartridge performance. The MFT stock keeps it lightweight and handy. Uses a familiar AR-15 platform, so controls are second-nature. Forged construction offers good durability for the cost.
Cons: Ammunition is more expensive and less common than .223/5.56. Recoil is more pronounced than a standard AR. It’s a niche cartridge, so it’s not a high-volume plinking rifle. You may want to upgrade the trigger and optic mount for precision work.
This rifle is for the Missouri whitetail hunter who needs a straight-walled cartridge-compliant rifle, or the hunter anywhere tackling thick brush where shots are close and barriers are many. It’s for the budget-minded shooter who wants a dedicated, reliable hunting tool without the premium price tag of some boutique brands. It’s also a great option for someone wanting a single, powerful rifle for hog control or bear defense in the woods. If you prioritize practical performance over polish, this Radical Firearms MHR represents serious bang-for-your-buck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this upper fit on my existing AR-15 lower?
A: Yes, with a caveat. The upper receiver is compatible with a standard mil-spec AR-15 lower. However, the 450 Bushmaster requires a specific bolt carrier group and magazine. This Radical MHR is sold as a complete rifle, so all compatible parts are included. You cannot simply swap a 5.56 upper for this one without changing the bolt and mag.
Q: Is the 450 Bushmaster good for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. The 450 Bushmaster is an excellent deer cartridge, particularly in the wooded and brushy terrain common in much of Missouri. It meets the requirements for alternative methods and straight-walled cartridge seasons in the state. Its heavy bullets deliver rapid energy transfer and good penetration.
Q: What kind of optic should I put on this rifle?
A: Given the effective range of the 450 Bushmaster (typically under 250 yards), a low-power variable optic (LPVO) in a 1-6x or 1-8x range is an ideal match. A high-quality red dot sight is also a great choice for fast target acquisition in dense cover. The rifle’s Picatinny rail accepts any standard mount.
Ready to add this capable, value-packed hunting rifle to your arsenal? The Radical Firearms Forged MHR 450 Bushmaster is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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