Let’s Dive into Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown
The Ruger 10/22 is a ubiquitous rifle, known for its reliability and customization potential. The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown aims to elevate that customization, offering a modular platform for the popular takedown model. Midwest Industries promises enhanced ergonomics and accessory attachment points.
I was looking for a way to modernize my aging 10/22 Takedown, adding stability and versatility. The factory polymer stock felt flimsy, and I wanted M-Lok compatibility for lights and other accessories.
Upon unboxing, the chassis felt robust, constructed from what appeared to be quality aluminum. The hard coat anodized finish looked durable, and the machining seemed precise. The weight felt significant compared to the original stock, hinting at a more solid shooting platform.
Compared to similar chassis systems from Magpul and ProMag, the Midwest Industries option seemed to offer a more streamlined design and a slightly lower price point. I chose it hoping for a balance between functionality and value.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown appeared well-made, but I was concerned about potential fitment issues given the 10/22’s sometimes inconsistent tolerances. I was eager to see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the chassis at an outdoor shooting range on a clear, mild day. Installation was straightforward, though I did notice a slight tightness when inserting my factory Ruger receiver. The M-Lok slots allowed for easy attachment of a bipod and a foregrip.
The chassis performed adequately under normal conditions. However, the increased weight was noticeable, especially during offhand shooting. There was no immediate indication of the chassis impeding performance, it felt more solid than the factory polymer stock.
The initial use revealed a potential ergonomic issue. The AR grip adapter was indeed sharp around the edges. It was uncomfortably digging into the web of my hand during extended firing sessions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a few months, the Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown has held up reasonably well. The anodized finish is showing some minor scratches from handling, but no significant wear. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a silicone cloth is sufficient.
Compared to my previous experiences with other 10/22 stocks, this chassis offers improved stability. The additional weight contributes to reduced felt recoil. Unfortunately, the sharp AR grip adapter continued to be a source of discomfort.
The chassis proved compatible with most of my standard 10/22 magazines. Aftermarket magazines had mixed results (some fit, and some didn’t). The chassis is more durable than plastic stock, but the ergonomic issues detracted from the experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown
Specifications
- The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown is constructed from 6061 Aluminum, offering a good balance of strength and weight. The Hard Coat Anodized finish provides corrosion resistance and a durable surface.
- It is designed specifically for the Ruger 10/22 Takedown rifle, ensuring (in theory) a proper fit. The M-LOK compatible handguard allows for easy attachment of accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips.
- The chassis features two Anti-Rotation QD Sling Sockets, providing convenient and secure sling attachment points. Mounting Hardware is Included, simplifying the installation process.
- The threaded end is designed to accept AR15/M4 Buffer Tubes, allowing users to install AR-style stocks. The chassis has an overall length of 9.25 inches, and weighs 14oz installed.
- The country of origin is USA. This suggests higher quality control and supports the domestic manufacturing industry.
These specifications are important because they dictate the chassis’s strength, durability, and compatibility. The aluminum construction and anodized finish ensure it can withstand typical use and environmental conditions. The M-Lok system expands the rifle’s utility, and the AR buffer tube compatibility allows for further customization.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown functions adequately as a platform for the 10/22 Takedown. The increased rigidity improves accuracy slightly compared to the factory stock.
However, the chassis falls short in terms of user comfort due to the sharp edges on the AR grip adapter. It is also disappointing to see that aftermarket trigger groups might not fit this chassis. This severely limits upgrade options.
The chassis’s performance meets basic expectations, but the ergonomic issues and potential compatibility problems hold it back. It needs significant improvement to be a truly worthwhile upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown is generally good. The aluminum feels solid, and the machining is precise.
However, the ergonomics are negatively impacted by the sharp edges of the AR grip adapter and buffer tube set screw. The sharp edges of the AR grip adapter cut the fingers of the shooting hand and the protruding buffer tube set screw cuts the web of the shooting hand. The overall design feels somewhat unfinished, lacking the refinement found in other chassis systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown appears to be quite durable. The aluminum construction and anodized finish should withstand years of use.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down is usually all that’s needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The chassis comes with basic mounting hardware. It’s primarily designed to enhance customization through M-Lok slots and AR buffer tube compatibility.
The M-Lok slots readily accept a variety of accessories, such as lights, lasers, and foregrips, but aftermarket trigger groups and receivers might not fit, significantly limiting customization of internal components. The chassis is compatible with AR-style stocks allowing users to select a stock that fits their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown
Pros
- Improved stability and rigidity over the factory stock.
- M-Lok compatibility for easy accessory attachment.
- AR buffer tube compatibility for stock customization.
- Durable aluminum construction with hard coat anodized finish.
- Easy installation.
Cons
- Sharp edges on AR grip adapter cause discomfort.
- Aftermarket trigger groups and receivers might not fit properly.
- Buffer tube set screw protrudes too far and cuts the web of the hand.
- Added weight may not be desirable for all users.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown?
The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown is perfect for those seeking a more robust and customizable platform for their Ruger 10/22 Takedown, especially if they plan to use M-Lok accessories and are comfortable with potential fitment issues. It might appeal to shooters who prioritize stability and modularity over lightweight design.
Those who prioritize maximum comfort, are using aftermarket trigger groups, or prefer a lightweight setup should skip this product. Also, those using aftermarket receivers might not find this chassis suitable.
Must-have modifications include sanding down the sharp edges on the AR grip adapter and replacing the buffer tube set screw with a flush alternative. A lightweight AR stock would also help mitigate the added weight.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown
The Midwest Industries Chassis Compatible with Ruger 10/22 TakeDown offers a mixed bag of features and drawbacks. While it improves stability and adds modularity through M-Lok and AR buffer tube compatibility, the ergonomic issues and potential compatibility problems are significant concerns.
The price of $141.95 might be justified if the chassis offered a more refined user experience. However, as it stands, the value proposition is questionable.
I would not personally recommend this product in its current form. The discomfort caused by the sharp edges and potential fitment issues outweigh the benefits. Midwest Industries needs to address these shortcomings before this chassis can be considered a truly worthwhile upgrade.