First Impressions of MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis
The MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis promises an accessible entry point into the world of precision rifle shooting, transforming a standard Remington 700 into a more accurate and ergonomic platform. Designed by MDT to improve accuracy and ergonomics, the Oryx chassis boasts an adjustable buttstock, M-LOK compatibility, and AICS magazine compatibility, making it a compelling upgrade for various shooting disciplines. Its affordability combined with a feature-rich design makes it an attractive option for both beginners and experienced shooters looking to enhance their existing rifle.
I was looking for a lighter-weight chassis system for my Remington 700 short action to use in NRL matches without sacrificing accuracy. My previous chassis, an ACC Elite, was fantastic but put my rifle over the weight limit for certain competitions.
Unboxing the MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis revealed a well-machined aluminum chassis with polymer panels. The initial impression was positive; the chassis felt solid and looked well-constructed. I was immediately impressed by the clean lines and the comfortable feel of the polymer grip.
I considered the Magpul Hunter 700 stock and the KRG Bravo chassis before settling on the Oryx. The Magpul stock felt too flexible for true precision work, and the KRG Bravo, while excellent, was a bit more expensive. The Oryx seemed to strike the right balance between price, features, and weight.
My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to significantly lighten my rifle while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and adjustability. I was eager to see if the MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis could live up to the hype and improve my performance in practical rifle competitions.
Real-World Testing: Putting MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis was at my local shooting range, zeroing the rifle and testing its accuracy at 100 yards. The weather was mild and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing. I used Hornady Match 168 grain .308 ammunition for consistency.
The chassis was incredibly easy to install, requiring only basic tools and about 15 minutes. The adjustable buttstock allowed me to quickly tailor the fit to my body, resulting in a comfortable and stable shooting position. The enhanced ergonomics were immediately noticeable, allowing for a more consistent and natural trigger pull.
The only initial issue I encountered was with magazine compatibility. Some of my older AICS magazines didn’t seat perfectly, requiring a firm push to lock in place. Newer magazines, however, functioned flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis has proven to be a reliable and durable platform. I’ve used it in multiple NRL matches and several long-range practice sessions. The chassis has consistently delivered improved accuracy and enhanced ergonomics.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to various weather conditions and rough handling. The MIL Spec Type 3 Hard Anodized finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to keep the chassis in good condition. The aluminum construction resists corrosion, further simplifying maintenance. It has significantly outperformed the original factory stock, providing a more stable and accurate shooting platform.
Breaking Down the Features of MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis
Specifications
- Manufacturer: MDT.
- Finish: MIL Spec Type 3 Hard Anodized. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
- Fabric/Material: Aircraft-Grade 6061 Aluminum. This ensures a strong and lightweight chassis.
- Gun Make: Remington.
- Gun Model: Remington Model 700.
- Action Length: Short Action.
- Hand: Left and Right hand models available.
- Gun Rail: M-LOK. This allows for easy attachment of accessories.
- Length: 32.25 in. This is a good balance between compactness and stability.
These specifications are crucial for creating a chassis that is both durable and functional. The aluminum construction provides a rigid platform for the action, enhancing accuracy, while the M-LOK compatibility allows for easy customization.
Performance & Functionality
The MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis dramatically improves the accuracy and ergonomics of a standard Remington 700. The full-length aluminum bedding block ensures a stable and consistent platform for the action, while the free-floating barrel prevents unwanted contact and vibration. It enhances accuracy, provides superior ergonomics, and allows for easy customization.
The adjustable buttstock is a standout feature, allowing for a customized fit that significantly improves shooting comfort and consistency. The grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold, even in wet conditions. One minor weakness is the magazine well can be tight with certain brands of AICS magazines, requiring a firm push to seat correctly.
It exceeded my expectations by providing a significant improvement in accuracy and ergonomics compared to the original factory stock. The ability to customize the fit to my body made a noticeable difference in my shooting performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis features a sleek and modern design with clean lines and a comfortable feel. The combination of aluminum and polymer creates a balance between durability and weight.
The chassis is relatively user-friendly, with straightforward installation and intuitive adjustments. The adjustable buttstock and comfortable grip make it easy to find a comfortable and stable shooting position.
Durability & Maintenance
The Aircraft-Grade 6061 Aluminum construction and MIL Spec Type 3 Hard Anodized finish ensure that the MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis is built to last. The chassis is resistant to corrosion, scratches, and abrasions.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use. The aluminum construction resists corrosion, further simplifying maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis is compatible with a wide range of AR15 grips, M-LOK accessories, and AICS magazines. This allows for extensive customization to suit individual preferences and shooting needs.
Popular accessories include bipods, optics, and various M-LOK attachments such as lights and lasers. The compatibility with aftermarket AR15 grips allows shooters to tailor the feel of the rifle to their liking.
Pros and Cons of MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The full-length aluminum bedding block and free-floating barrel significantly enhance accuracy.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The adjustable buttstock and comfortable grip allow for a customized fit.
- M-LOK Compatibility: The M-LOK slots provide ample space for attaching accessories.
- AICS Magazine Compatibility: Converts the rifle to accept readily available and reliable AICS magazines.
- Affordable Upgrade: Offers excellent value for the price, making it an accessible entry point into precision rifle shooting.
Cons
- Magazine Compatibility: Some older AICS magazines may require a firm push to seat correctly.
- Polymer Panels: While durable, the polymer panels may not offer the same level of rigidity as full aluminum construction.
Who Should Buy MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis?
- Perfect for: Competitive shooters looking for a lightweight and accurate chassis system, hunters seeking improved ergonomics and accuracy, and recreational shooters wanting to upgrade their Remington 700.
- Who should skip this product? Shooters who require a full-aluminum chassis system for maximum rigidity or those who primarily use proprietary magazine systems.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality bipod, an adjustable cheek riser (if needed), and reliable AICS magazines.
Conclusion on MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis
The MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis is a well-designed and affordable upgrade that significantly enhances the accuracy and ergonomics of a standard Remington 700. Its combination of features, ease of installation, and compatibility with aftermarket accessories make it an excellent choice for a wide range of shooters.
The price is definitely justified by the noticeable improvements in performance and the overall value proposition.
I would highly recommend the MDT Remington 700 Oryx Rifle Chassis to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700 without breaking the bank. Consider transforming your shooting experience today with this exceptional chassis system.