First Impressions of Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA
The Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA enters a crowded market of chassis systems for the Remington 700 short action, promising a blend of lightweight design, stability-enhancing features, and extensive customization. This chassis isn’t just another option; it’s Grey Birch MFG’s foray into the centerfire world, leveraging their rimfire expertise to create something truly unique. It aims to bridge the gap between a featherweight hunting setup and a rock-solid competition platform.
For years, I’ve been searching for the ‘Goldilocks’ of chassis systems: something light enough to carry comfortably during long backcountry hunts but stable enough to inspire confidence during precision shooting scenarios. I needed something that offered a significant upgrade over the factory stock on my Remington 700 without adding excessive weight or sacrificing modularity.
Upon unboxing, the LaChassis 700SA immediately impressed with its sleek lines and the evident attention to detail. The chassis felt incredibly light, yet surprisingly rigid. The black finish was clean and uniform, suggesting a high level of quality control.
Compared to chassis systems from Magpul and MDT, the Grey Birch MFG offering stands out with its focus on modularity and weight reduction. Magpul offers a more budget-friendly entry point, while MDT provides more extensive features at a higher price point. The LaChassis 700SA seemed to offer a sweet spot. I chose this because it promises high-end features without excessive weight or cost.
My first impression was definitely one of excitement. It seemed Grey Birch MFG truly delivered on its promise of a lightweight, customizable, and stable chassis system. I was eager to get it installed on my rifle and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA at my local shooting range, followed by a weekend backcountry hunting trip. The range provided a controlled environment to evaluate accuracy and ergonomics. The hunting trip allowed me to assess its real-world portability and performance under field conditions.
The chassis performed exceptionally well in both environments, remaining stable and comfortable throughout the shooting sessions. I found the built-in bubble level incredibly useful for maintaining consistent rifle cant, particularly when shooting from unconventional positions. There were no functional issues experienced during initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the LaChassis 700SA has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to rough handling during multiple hunting trips. The finish has held up well against scratches and abrasions.
Maintaining the chassis is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. The adjustable components remain tight and secure, with no loosening or slippage issues. The Grey Birch MFG chassis significantly outperformed the factory stock in terms of accuracy, stability, and overall comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Grey Birch MFG
- Gun Make: Remington
- Gun Model: Remington Model 700 Short Action
- Hand: Right
- Gun Rail: M-LOK
- Color: Black
- Weight: 2 lbs 11 oz. This is exceptionally light for a feature-rich chassis.
- Compatibility: Remington 700 Short Action receivers. This limits its use to a specific family of rifles.
- M-LOK Forend: Provides extensive accessory mounting options. This enhances versatility and customization.
- Adjustable Length of Pull & Cheek Height: Allows for a custom fit. This ensures optimal comfort and shooting ergonomics.
- Folding Stock: Enhances portability and storage. This feature adds a tactical advantage.
- Adjustable Magazine Release Height: This allows for fine-tuning to individual preferences and magazine types. This enhances reloading efficiency.
Performance & Functionality
The Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA excels in providing a stable and ergonomic platform for the Remington 700. The adjustable length of pull and cheek height make it easy to achieve a comfortable and consistent shooting position. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to a factory stock.
The chassis’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, modularity, and ease of adjustment. One area for potential improvement is the availability of additional barricade stop modules for specialized shooting disciplines. The LaChassis 700SA exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The LaChassis 700SA boasts a sleek and modern design, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. The materials used are of high quality. The chassis feels solid and well-constructed in hand.
The ergonomic design is exceptional. The adjustable grip and cheek riser allow for a highly customized fit. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the various components. However, it is relatively intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The LaChassis 700SA is built to withstand the rigors of field use. The hard anodized finish provides excellent protection against scratches and abrasions. Regular maintenance involves simply wiping down the chassis with a clean cloth.
The Grey Birch MFG chassis is designed for long-term durability. It requires minimal maintenance to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA is compatible with a wide range of M-LOK accessories. This includes bipods, lights, lasers, and other tactical equipment. It also accepts standard ARCA Swiss rails for tripod mounting.
The chassis can be customized with different grips, stocks, and barricade stop modules. It’s compatible with most Remington 700 short action magazines. Grey Birch MFG offers a variety of accessories specifically designed for the LaChassis 700SA.
Pros and Cons of Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA
Pros
- Ultralight design (2 lbs 11 oz): Significantly reduces overall rifle weight, making it ideal for hunting and backpacking.
- Extensive modularity: M-LOK compatible forend and adjustable components allow for a highly customized setup.
- Enhanced stability: Built-in barricade stop and bubble level improve shooting accuracy and consistency.
- Folding stock: Enhances portability and storage.
- Adjustable length of pull and cheek height: Ensures optimal ergonomics for a wide range of shooters.
Cons
- Price: At $949.99, it’s a significant investment compared to some other chassis options.
- Grip not included: The adjustable trigger length grip is a separate purchase.
Who Should Buy Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA?
The Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA is perfect for hunters and competitive shooters who prioritize lightweight design, modularity, and enhanced stability. It’s also a great option for anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700 with a high-quality, customizable chassis system.
This product may not be ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer a more traditional stock design. A must-have accessory is a high-quality grip. A bipod or tripod can significantly enhance stability during long-range shooting.
Conclusion on Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA
The Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA is an exceptional chassis system that delivers on its promises of lightweight design, stability, and customization. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the performance and features justify the investment. It transformed my Remington 700 into a more accurate, comfortable, and versatile rifle.
The value proposition is excellent. The LaChassis 700SA offers features and performance comparable to higher-priced chassis systems. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a premium upgrade for their Remington 700 short action.
If you’re seeking a chassis that blends lightweight design with rock-solid stability and extensive customization, the Grey Birch MFG RH-16 LaChassis 700SA is the clear winner. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference.
