Let’s Dive into Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis
The Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis promises to be an innovative and affordable upgrade for your existing Savage rifle. Sharps Bros. aims to transform your factory rifle into a modern, versatile platform without the need for a gunsmith. This chassis boasts a lightweight aluminum construction with M-LOK compatibility and an AR-style stock interface, making it a compelling option for shooters seeking enhanced customization and ergonomics.
I’ve been searching for a way to modernize my aging Savage 110 .308 for years. The factory stock felt outdated and lacked the adaptability I desired for mounting accessories and improving ergonomics. I was specifically looking for a chassis system that would accept AICS magazines and offer a more stable and comfortable shooting platform.
Upon unboxing, the Heatseeker immediately impressed me with its solid feel and clean lines. The matte black Cerakote finish is evenly applied and gives the chassis a professional, durable look. The aluminum construction feels robust yet surprisingly lightweight.
I considered the MDT LSS Chassis and the Oryx Chassis by MDT, both popular choices in the market. Ultimately, the Heatseeker’s sleek design and the promise of easy installation swayed my decision. The integrated AR buffer tube interface also appealed to me, allowing for greater stock customization.
My initial impression was one of excitement. The Heatseeker appeared to be a well-engineered product that could breathe new life into my trusted Savage 110. I was eager to install it and see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Heatseeker was at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to test its performance in a controlled environment before taking it into the field. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for sighting in and getting a feel for the new chassis.
Installation was surprisingly straightforward, as Sharps Bros. claimed. The included instructions were clear and concise, and I had my Savage 110 bedded in the chassis in under an hour. The most significant improvement was the noticeable increase in stability compared to the factory stock.
The first few shots revealed a significant improvement in accuracy. The rigid aluminum chassis eliminated any flex or movement that had plagued my previous setup. The AICS magazine fed flawlessly, and the M-LOK handguard provided ample space for mounting my bipod. The one slightly annoying factor as noted in the provided feedback, was that the forearm is not perfectly centered to the barrel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Heatseeker has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve taken it on multiple range trips and even used it during a coyote hunting expedition. The chassis has held up remarkably well to regular use.
Despite being exposed to dirt, dust, and even a brief rain shower, the Cerakote finish has resisted scratches and wear. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. The chassis has also maintained its rigidity and accuracy over time.
The Heatseeker has far surpassed my expectations. The improved ergonomics and enhanced accuracy have transformed my Savage 110 into a rifle I now thoroughly enjoy shooting. The AICS magazine compatibility has made reloading faster and more efficient.
Breaking Down the Features of Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis
Specifications
The Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis is designed for .308 based calibers. This includes 7.62×51/.308 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, 6.5mm Creedmoor, .260 Remington, and .243 Winchester. It’s specifically compatible with 3rd generation Savage short action Series 10/110 centerfire rifles with center-feed magazine compatibility and action screw hole spacing of 4.40 inches (H-prefix and later) manufactured in 2006 or later.
This lightweight chassis weighs in at 1 lb, 3 ounces, with the 14-inch handguard adding an additional 10 ounces. The chassis body is machined from billet 6061-T6 aluminum, known for its high strength and durability. The handguard is constructed from a unique aluminum extrusion exclusive to Sharps Bros. Both the chassis and handguard are finished in a matte black Cerakote.
Performance & Functionality
The Heatseeker significantly enhances the performance of a compatible Savage 110 rifle. Its rigid construction contributes to improved accuracy by providing a stable platform for the action and barrel. The AICS magazine compatibility allows for reliable and consistent feeding.
The M-LOK slots on the handguard offer ample space for mounting accessories such as bipods, lights, and night vision devices. The AR buffer tube interface opens up a wide range of stock options, allowing the shooter to customize the rifle’s ergonomics to their preference. The chassis does exactly what it claims to do and performs exceptionally well.
Design & Ergonomics
The Heatseeker’s sleek, modern design is a major aesthetic upgrade compared to traditional factory stocks. The 6061-T6 aluminum construction is both lightweight and strong, making the rifle easier to handle and maneuver. The matte black Cerakote finish provides a durable and attractive exterior.
The AR-15 grip interface allows for the use of a wide variety of aftermarket grips, further enhancing ergonomics. The 14-inch handguard offers plenty of space for a comfortable and secure grip. Overall the design is user-friendly, but some might prefer a longer foregrip, as noted in the provided feedback.
Durability & Maintenance
The Heatseeker is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and construction. The 6061-T6 aluminum and Cerakote finish are highly resistant to wear and tear. The chassis is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional wiping with a damp cloth.
With proper care, the Heatseeker should provide years of reliable service. There are no readily apparent points of failure or areas prone to damage. This chassis is built to withstand the rigors of regular use in the field.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Heatseeker chassis itself does not come with many accessories, focusing instead on providing a solid foundation for customization. It is compatible with all AR-15 grips, allowing shooters to choose the grip that best suits their hand size and shooting style. The AR buffer tube interface allows for the use of any AR-15 compatible stock.
The M-LOK handguard is compatible with a wide range of M-LOK accessories, including bipods, lights, lasers, and forward grips. The chassis is designed to accept AICS short action magazines from Magpul and Accuracy International. The Heatseeker provides a wealth of options for customizing the rifle to meet individual needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis
Pros
- Significantly improves accuracy compared to factory stocks due to its rigid aluminum construction.
- Offers extensive customization options with M-LOK slots and AR-15 grip/stock compatibility.
- Easy to install, requiring no gunsmithing.
- Durable and lightweight, thanks to its 6061-T6 aluminum and Cerakote finish.
- AICS magazine compatibility allows for reliable and efficient feeding.
Cons
- The handguard might feel short for some shooters, limiting accessory placement (as noted in user feedback).
- The magazine release design may not be as ergonomic as a paddle release (as noted in user feedback).
Who Should Buy Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis?
The Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis is perfect for Savage 110 owners looking to modernize their rifle and improve its performance. This chassis is ideal for hunters, target shooters, and those who enjoy customizing their firearms. Anyone seeking increased accuracy, enhanced ergonomics, and greater accessory compatibility will benefit from this upgrade.
This product might not be ideal for shooters who prefer the traditional look and feel of a classic wood stock. Those on a very tight budget might find the price a bit steep compared to more basic stock options. Those who desire a longer handguard or a different magazine release design might also want to consider other chassis options.
A must-have accessory for this chassis is a high-quality AR-15 stock that suits the shooter’s preferred length of pull and cheek weld. A reliable AICS magazine from Magpul or Accuracy International is also essential. Depending on intended use, a bipod, scope, and other M-LOK compatible accessories may also be desirable.
Conclusion on Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis
The Sharps Bros. Heatseeker .308 Winchester / Savage 110 Short Action Aluminum Rifle Chassis is an outstanding upgrade for any compatible Savage 110 rifle. It delivers on its promise of improved accuracy, enhanced ergonomics, and greater customization options. The build quality is excellent, and the installation process is surprisingly straightforward.
The price of $436.95 is justified by the quality of materials, the thoughtful design, and the significant performance gains. While there are a couple of minor drawbacks, such as the handguard length and magazine release design, these are easily outweighed by the numerous benefits. Overall this product is very nicely designed but as the feedback from other users mentioned, there is room for improvement that I hope Sharps Bros. can address in future versions.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Heatseeker to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Savage 110. It’s a worthwhile investment that will transform your rifle into a more accurate, versatile, and enjoyable shooting platform. Upgrade your Savage 110 today with the Sharps Bros. Heatseeker and experience the difference!