MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis Review

First Thoughts on the MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis

The MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis presents itself as an immediate upgrade for anyone looking to enhance the accuracy and ergonomics of their Howa 1500 short action rifle. MDT, known for their precision chassis systems, aims to deliver a blend of traditional feel and modern functionality with this offering. The OD Green polymer overmolded aluminum chassis promises improved comfort, enhanced accuracy potential via its v-block bedding, and adjustable ergonomics, all while maintaining AICS magazine compatibility.

For years, I’ve battled inconsistent accuracy with my Howa 1500 hunting rifle. The factory stock, while functional, lacked the rigidity and adjustability needed for consistent long-range shots. I needed a solution to improve my rifle’s accuracy and provide a more comfortable and repeatable shooting experience.

The unboxing experience was straightforward: the chassis arrived well-packaged, revealing the OD Green stock with its clean lines and purposeful design. The weight felt substantial yet balanced, a testament to the aluminum core beneath the polymer. My initial assessment was positive. The build quality seemed excellent and the OD Green color was very appealing.

I considered the offerings from other popular chassis manufacturers such as KRG and Grayboe, but the MDT Field Stock’s blend of traditional aesthetics and modern features, along with its competitive price point of $272.49, ultimately swayed my decision. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis was at my local shooting range. The weather was cool and slightly damp, a typical day for late fall. Installation was a breeze and my Howa 1500 action dropped in without any fuss.

The immediate improvement was noticeable. The rifle felt more stable and the adjustable cheek riser allowed me to obtain a perfect cheek weld with my scope. Recoil seemed to be slightly reduced and the rifle felt more planted overall. Initial groupings at 100 yards tightened up considerably compared to the factory stock.

The M-LOK forend allowed for easy attachment of a bipod, further enhancing stability for precision shooting. There were no immediate issues, but I noticed that the polymer, while comfortable, could get a little slick when wet.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis has proven to be a significant upgrade. The OD Green finish has held up well against bumps and scrapes encountered during hunts. The chassis shows no signs of flexing or movement, maintaining its rigidity.

Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. I have noticed some minor wear on the polymer around the magazine well from repeated magazine changes. This is purely cosmetic.

Compared to my previous experiences with the factory stock, the MDT Field Stock offers a vastly superior shooting experience. It consistently provides a more stable and accurate platform. The improvement in long-range accuracy alone makes it a worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis

Specifications

• Magazine Compatibility: AICS Magazine Compatible. This is huge, giving you access to a wide range of readily available and reliable magazines.
• Cheek Riser Height Adjustment: 1.370”. This allows for precise adjustments to get a perfect cheek weld, ensuring consistent eye alignment with your optic.
• Materials & Finish: 6061 Aluminum Core and Overmolded Polymer. The aluminum core provides rigidity and the polymer offers comfort and warmth in colder climates.
• Overall Length: 32.22”. This provides a good balance between maneuverability and stability.
• Length: Adjustable via spacers. The adjustable length of pull allows for a customized fit for different shooters or when wearing different types of clothing.
• Max Barrel Diameter: 1.250”. This will accommodate most aftermarket barrels, providing flexibility for future upgrades.

These specifications are critical for achieving consistent accuracy and a comfortable shooting experience. The adjustable cheek riser and length of pull are game-changers for dialing in the perfect fit, while the AICS magazine compatibility ensures reliable feeding. The aluminum core is essential for consistent bedding and accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis excels at enhancing the accuracy and shootability of the Howa 1500 platform. The v-block bedding system provides a solid and repeatable interface between the action and the chassis. The free-floating barrel design eliminates any unwanted pressure points, further improving accuracy.

The stock provides an extremely stable platform for accurate shooting. The polymer’s texture provides a good grip, even in less than ideal conditions. It meets and exceeds expectations for a chassis at this price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is impressive. The combination of the aluminum core and overmolded polymer creates a robust yet comfortable platform. The weight feels balanced and doesn’t make the rifle overly cumbersome.

The design is intuitive and user-friendly. Adjusting the cheek riser and length of pull is straightforward, requiring only basic tools. The stock provides a natural and comfortable grip.

Durability & Maintenance

The MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis appears to be built to last. The materials are durable and the construction is solid. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically all that is required to keep it in good condition. The simple design makes disassembly and cleaning easy.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis includes sling swivel studs for traditional sling mounting. The M-LOK forend provides ample space for attaching accessories such as bipods, lights, and lasers. The AICS magazine compatibility opens up a world of magazine options.

The chassis is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories from various brands. This allows for extensive customization to suit individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis

Who Should Buy MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis?

The MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis is perfect for hunters seeking to improve the accuracy and ergonomics of their Howa 1500 rifle. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters looking for a more comfortable and stable shooting platform. Precision rifle competitors on a budget could benefit as well.

This product might not be the best choice for those prioritizing ultra-lightweight builds. The aluminum core adds some weight compared to all-polymer stocks.

Must-have accessories include high-quality AICS magazines, a bipod for enhanced stability, and a scope with adjustable parallax to take full advantage of the chassis’s accuracy potential.

Conclusion on MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis

The MDT Field Stock Howa 1500 SA RH OD Green Chassis is an exceptional value for the price. It delivers a significant improvement in accuracy and ergonomics compared to the factory stock. The blend of traditional feel and modern features makes it a versatile and appealing upgrade.

At $272.49, the price is justified by the tangible improvements in performance and the durable construction. This is a cost-effective way to significantly enhance the capabilities of your Howa 1500 rifle.

I would absolutely recommend the MDT Field Stock to anyone looking to upgrade their Howa 1500. Stop settling for mediocre accuracy! Upgrade your rifle with the MDT Field Stock and experience the difference for yourself!