Let’s Dive into MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American promise enhanced ergonomics and a touch of personalized style to the popular Ruger American rifle. MDT is a well-known manufacturer of chassis systems and precision rifle accessories, so I was intrigued to see how this relatively inexpensive bolt knob upgrade would perform. I have 10+ years experience modifying and using various tactical rifles and I will provide you the most detailed review of this product that I can.
I have always found the factory bolt knob on my Ruger American a bit small and slick, especially when wearing gloves during colder months. I was looking for a simple, non-permanent solution to improve my grip and cycling speed. The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American, with its clamp-on design and textured polymer sleeve, seemed like an ideal solution without requiring permanent modifications or gunsmithing.
Upon receiving the bolt knob, my initial impression was positive. The polymer sleeve felt comfortable in hand, and the hourglass shape seemed like it would indeed offer a better grip. It was packaged simply, but adequately, and included the clamshell halves, friction pads, and the necessary screws. I was initially hopeful that this would be a quick and effective upgrade. It also comes in multiple colors and I chose black.
I considered other aftermarket bolt knobs, including threaded options that would require gunsmithing, and larger, more aggressive designs. However, I ultimately chose the MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American for its ease of installation and non-permanent nature. I was excited to see if it lived up to the promise of improved ergonomics and enhanced bolt manipulation, but slightly worried about the user feedback that said the screws supplied were not adequate.
Real-World Testing: Putting MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American took place at my local shooting range during a typical afternoon session. I used my Ruger American .308, equipped with the MDT bolt knob, for both slow-fire target practice and rapid-fire drills. The weather was dry and mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
I immediately noticed a difference in my grip and bolt cycling speed. The textured polymer sleeve provided a much more secure hold than the original bolt knob, and the hourglass shape comfortably cradled my finger. It took a little getting used to the slightly larger size, but overall, it felt like a significant improvement.
However, I did experience a minor issue during my first range session. After approximately 50 rounds, I noticed the bolt knob had started to loosen slightly. I attribute this to the original screws supplied and will be replacing them.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 200 rounds fired, the MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American has held up reasonably well. The polymer sleeve shows no signs of wear, and the overall construction still feels solid, again, besides the minor loosening. I’ve taken the rifle on a few hunting trips since installing the bolt knob, exposing it to varying conditions, including light rain and cold temperatures.
The bolt knob remained functional in all conditions, but I did notice that the grip became slightly less secure when wet. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket bolt knobs that required permanent installation, the MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American offers a convenient and easily reversible upgrade. This is only if you can get it to stay secured properly.
Breaking Down the Features of MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American
Specifications
- Manufacturer: MDT
- Material: Glass Filled Polypropylene clamshell with Protouch soft touch polymer sleeve. The glass-filled polypropylene provides a rigid and durable structure for the clamshell, ensuring it can withstand the forces of bolt operation.
- Compatibility: Ruger American Centerfire (Pre-2019 rounded knob). The specified compatibility ensures a proper fit and secure installation on the intended rifle model.
- Installation: Clamp-on design using 3 screws and anti-slip foam friction pads. The clamp-on design simplifies installation, eliminating the need for gunsmithing or permanent modifications.
- Hand: Ambidextrous. The ambidextrous design caters to both right- and left-handed shooters, enhancing versatility.
- Country of Origin: Canada.
- Weight: Very minimal, does not change the overall rifle balance.
- Colors: Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green, Grey
Performance & Functionality
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American effectively enhances bolt manipulation, providing a more secure and comfortable grip. The textured polymer sleeve and hourglass shape make it easier to cycle the bolt quickly and efficiently, even when wearing gloves. The design is simple, functional and serves its purpose.
The bolt knob’s primary strength lies in its improved ergonomics and ease of installation. However, the supplied screws being slightly too short, resulting in the knob loosening over time, is a drawback that needs addressing. Overall, the MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American meets expectations as a simple, drop-in upgrade for the Ruger American rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American features a well-designed, subtle hourglass shape that fits comfortably in the hand. The textured polymer sleeve provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions, and the overall construction feels solid and durable. The build quality is commendable, with high-quality materials used throughout.
The bolt knob is user-friendly, with no learning curve required. Installation is straightforward, and the clamp-on design ensures a secure fit on the existing bolt knob. The design is aesthetically pleasing.
Durability & Maintenance
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American is constructed from durable materials that should withstand years of use. The glass-filled polypropylene clamshell is resistant to impact and wear, and the polymer sleeve is designed to resist cracking and fading. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime.
The design of the bolt knob makes it easy to inspect and clean, ensuring it remains in good working condition. The materials that MDT used for this product, are very durable, and I don’t expect it to have problems down the line.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American does not come with any additional accessories. The primary customization option is the choice of colors, allowing users to personalize their rifle’s appearance. The bolt knob is compatible with the factory Ruger American bolt and does not require any modifications to the rifle. The foam friction pads, are also a customization option.
Pros and Cons of MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American
Pros
- Improved Ergonomics: The hourglass shape and textured polymer sleeve provide a more comfortable and secure grip.
- Easy Installation: The clamp-on design requires no gunsmithing or permanent modifications.
- Enhanced Bolt Manipulation: Makes it easier and faster to cycle the bolt, especially when wearing gloves.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that should withstand years of use.
- Affordable Upgrade: Offers a significant improvement in ergonomics and functionality at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Screws: Supplied screws may be too short and require replacement for a secure fit.
- Grip: Can become slightly slippery when wet, reducing grip security.
Who Should Buy MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American?
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American is perfect for hunters and sport shooters who want to improve the ergonomics and functionality of their Ruger American rifle. It’s an ideal upgrade for those who wear gloves or shoot in cold or wet conditions, as the textured polymer sleeve provides a more secure grip. It’s also a great option for those who want a simple, non-permanent upgrade that can be easily installed and removed.
Those who should skip this product are people who prefer more aggressive, permanently installed bolt knobs or those unwilling to replace the supplied screws for a more secure fit. A must-have modification would be replacing the supplied screws with slightly longer ones for a more secure fit.
Conclusion on MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American
The MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American offers a simple and effective way to improve the ergonomics and functionality of the Ruger American rifle. The hourglass shape and textured polymer sleeve provide a more comfortable and secure grip, making it easier and faster to cycle the bolt, especially when wearing gloves. The clamp-on design ensures easy installation, and the durable construction should withstand years of use.
While the supplied screws may require replacement for a more secure fit, the overall value proposition is justified by the improved ergonomics and enhanced bolt manipulation. I would personally recommend the MDT Bolt Knobs – Ruger American to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-install upgrade for their Ruger American rifle. Upgrade your Ruger American today and experience the difference! I hope that this review helped make you more informed about your possible purchase.