MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black Review

First Thoughts on the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black promises to transform the humble Howa 1500 short action into a precision shooting platform. It’s a bold claim, but MDT has built a reputation for quality chassis systems, and the XRS aims to bridge the gap between traditional stocks and full-blown competition chassis. The allure of improved ergonomics, enhanced accuracy potential, and a modern tactical aesthetic is strong.

My old factory stock on my Howa 1500 felt like a limiting factor to my accuracy. I needed a chassis that would provide a solid bedding surface and offer better adjustability. I’ve been chasing tighter groups at longer ranges, and the MDT XRS seemed like the perfect upgrade to help me get there.

Unboxing the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black, I was immediately struck by its solid feel. The combination of aluminum and polymer felt robust and well-made. The black matte finish is clean and professional, giving the chassis a sleek, no-nonsense appearance.

I considered other options, including chassis from Accuracy International and KRG (Kinetic Research Group). While those are fantastic systems, the MDT XRS offered a compelling balance of features and price, making it the most attractive option for my budget and needs. The modularity of the XRS system also appealed to me.

My first impression was definitely excitement. The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black looked and felt like a significant upgrade over the factory stock. I was eager to get it installed and see how it performed on the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black was at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for early spring – cool and breezy, with a threat of rain. I wanted to zero my rifle with the new chassis and test its performance at 100 and 200 yards.

The installation process was straightforward, and the Howa 1500 action dropped in without any issues. Right away, the improved ergonomics were noticeable. The adjustable cheek riser and length-of-pull made it easy to get a comfortable and consistent cheek weld.

The chassis felt incredibly stable while shooting from a prone position. The increased weight compared to the factory stock definitely helped reduce felt recoil, and the improved ergonomics allowed me to focus on my breathing and trigger pull. My initial 5-shot group at 100 yards was noticeably tighter than what I was used to with the old stock.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black has proven to be a reliable and durable platform. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a few rainy range days and a dusty backcountry trip. It holds up extremely well.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the finish, even after being bumped around in my rifle case and used in the field. Cleaning the chassis is simple; I usually just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session. The polymer sections resist scratches and are easy to keep looking new.

Compared to my previous experiences with the factory stock, the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is a significant improvement. The enhanced accuracy potential and comfortable ergonomics make it a joy to shoot. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black

Specifications

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is designed specifically for Howa 1500 short action rifles. It features an adjustable cheek riser and length-of-pull, allowing for a custom fit for various shooters.

• The chassis weighs approximately 4.2 pounds, providing added stability and recoil absorption. The MDT XRS accepts AICS pattern magazines, offering a wide range of aftermarket options.
• It is constructed from a combination of 6061-T6 aluminum and high-strength polymer, ensuring both durability and lightweight performance. The matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface and resists corrosion.
• The MDT XRS features M-LOK compatible slots along the forend, allowing for easy attachment of accessories such as bipods, lights, and lasers. The integrated barricade stop provides a stable platform for shooting from improvised positions.

These specifications translate to improved accuracy, enhanced ergonomics, and increased versatility. The adjustability allows the shooter to achieve a consistent cheek weld and proper eye relief with their optic.

Performance & Functionality

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black significantly enhances the accuracy potential of the Howa 1500 action. The rigid aluminum bedding block provides a stable and consistent platform for the action, minimizing vibration and improving shot-to-shot consistency.

The adjustable cheek riser and length-of-pull allow for a perfect fit, promoting proper shooting form and reducing fatigue. One minor weakness is that adjusting the length of pull requires tools. However, it’s a small price to pay for the overall performance. The MDT XRS meets and exceeds my expectations for accuracy and ergonomics.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is excellent. The combination of aluminum and polymer feels robust and durable, without adding excessive weight.

The chassis feels comfortable in hand, with a well-designed grip that provides a secure and positive hold. There is a slight learning curve to adjusting the cheek riser and length-of-pull, but the process is straightforward with the included tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in the field.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The polymer sections resist scratches and are easy to keep looking new.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is compatible with a wide range of accessories. The M-LOK slots on the forend allow for the easy attachment of bipods, lights, lasers, and other accessories.

The chassis accepts AICS pattern magazines, providing a wide variety of capacity and material options. While no accessories are included beyond the tools for adjustment, the modular design allows for extensive customization. Aftermarket grips, buttstocks, and forends can further tailor the chassis to individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black

Who Should Buy MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black?

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is perfect for shooters looking to improve the accuracy and ergonomics of their Howa 1500 rifle. It’s also excellent for competitive shooters, hunters seeking enhanced precision, and anyone wanting a more modern and tactical shooting experience.

Hunters who prioritize lightweight rifles might want to consider other options. Those on a very tight budget may also find other more affordable, albeit less feature-rich, alternatives.

A must-have accessory for the MDT XRS is a high-quality AICS pattern magazine.

Conclusion on MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black

The MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed upgrade for the Howa 1500 rifle. The enhanced accuracy, improved ergonomics, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.

At $549.95, the MDT XRS offers an excellent value proposition, delivering performance comparable to more expensive chassis systems.

I would personally recommend the MDT XRS Rifle Chassis HOWA 1500 SA Black to anyone looking to enhance their Howa 1500 rifle. Upgrade your shooting experience today!