Wilson Combat Nula Model 20
The Wilson Combat NULA (New Ultra Light Arms) Model 20 is an ultralight bolt-action hunting rifle weighing under 5 lbs in most configurations—among the lightest production bolt-action rifles available from any manufacturer. Built on NULA’s proprietary fiberglass composite stock with Wilson Combat’s precision barrel and action work, the Model 20 is designed for backcountry hunters who carry their rifle for miles before a shot opportunity presents itself. Available in short-action calibers including .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, 7mm-08, and 6.5 Creedmoor, the NULA Model 20 represents the intersection of ultralight carry weight and genuine hunting accuracy.
Read our full Wilson Combat NULA Model 20 Buying Guide ↓
How Wilson Combat Achieves Sub-5 lb Weight
The NULA Model 20’s weight reduction comes from multiple design choices working together. The fiberglass composite stock is significantly lighter than walnut or standard synthetic stocks. The barrel is fluted to remove material without compromising rigidity. The action is machined to tighter tolerances than standard production actions, allowing thinner walls. The trigger group uses lightweight components. Each individual savings is modest; combined, they produce a complete rifle that weighs less than most handguns loaded. For hunters who gain or lose a mile of walking based on equipment choices, the NULA’s weight is transformative.
NULA Model 20 vs. Savage 110 Ultralite: The Ultralight Comparison
The Savage 110 Ultralite is the most widely available production ultralight bolt-action, weighing approximately 5.7–6 lbs — lighter than most rifles but heavier than the NULA. The Wilson Combat NULA Model 20 goes further, achieving under 5 lbs through more intensive materials engineering. The NULA also comes with Wilson Combat’s quality control and precision fitting as standard. The trade-off is cost — the NULA is significantly more expensive than the Savage. For buyers who want the lightest possible hunting rifle and are willing to invest accordingly, the NULA is the answer. For buyers who want a light rifle at a lower price, the Savage 110 Ultralite is the practical alternative.
Caliber Selection for Mountain Hunting
The NULA Model 20 in 6.5 Creedmoor is the most popular configuration for all-around mountain hunting — the cartridge’s flat trajectory, manageable recoil in a lightweight rifle, and effectiveness on deer through elk-sized game make it the versatile choice for hunters who may encounter different species on the same trip. The .308 Winchester is the more traditional choice with broader ammunition availability at hunting destinations worldwide. The 7mm-08 offers similar external ballistics to 6.5 Creedmoor with slightly different bullet options. For dedicated elk or larger game, .300 WSM or similar magnum configurations are available.
Wilson Combat Quality on a Hunting Platform
Wilson Combat is known primarily for their 1911 and AR-15 work at the highest quality level. The NULA partnership brings that quality standard to the bolt-action hunting rifle market — precision barrel fitting, trigger work to Wilson Combat’s specifications, and quality control that exceeds standard production rifle tolerances. For buyers who want a hunting rifle built to handgun-quality standards and understand that accurate, reliable field performance is what that investment buys, the NULA Model 20 represents Wilson Combat’s answer to that market.
Related Pages
Compare ultralight alternatives on the Savage 110 Ultralite page, browse all hunting rifles, or explore bolt-action rifles.