First Impressions of Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis
The Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis promises to bring the vibrant designs and lightweight modularity of the AR-15 world to the venerable Remington 700 platform. Timber Creek is known for their eye-catching anodized aluminum parts, and this chassis aims to inject that same style into the bolt-action realm. But can this chassis deliver on both aesthetics and performance?
For years, I’ve been tinkering with Remington 700 rifles, constantly chasing that perfect blend of accuracy, ergonomics, and weight. I was seeking a chassis that offered M-LOK compatibility for accessory mounting and reduced weight without sacrificing rigidity. I was looking to build a lightweight precision rifle for backcountry hunts, and the Timber Creek Enforcer seemed to fit the bill based on the specifications.
My first impression upon unboxing the Timber Creek Enforcer was positive. The anodized finish was flawless, and the skeletonized design looked aggressive yet functional. At a claimed 22 ounces, it felt incredibly light in hand, lighter than the polymer stock I was replacing.
Compared to other chassis systems I’ve used – specifically the Magpul Hunter 700 and the MDT HNT26 – the Timber Creek Enforcer stood out due to its aggressive skeletonized design and focus on lightweight construction. I chose the Timber Creek over the Magpul because I wanted something lighter than polymer, and I chose it over the MDT because of Timber Creek’s aggressive pricing. I was cautiously optimistic, but eager to see how it performed with a barreled action installed.
Initially, I was excited by the aesthetics and weight, but also slightly concerned about the potential impact of the skeletonized design on overall rigidity and felt recoil. I was keen to get it installed and see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Timber Creek Enforcer-equipped Remington 700 was at an outdoor range in mixed conditions; a partly cloudy day with a slight breeze. I primarily focused on accuracy testing at 100 yards. The chassis was paired with a Timney trigger and a Leupold VX-3i scope.
Performance was positive, although I did need to adjust my shooting style slightly due to the reduced weight of the rifle. The rifle produced sub-MOA groupings with hand-loaded ammunition. The M-LOK slots provided ample space for attaching a bipod, which helped stabilize the rifle for more accurate shots.
Installation was straightforward, with no major hiccups, although I did need to ensure the action screws were properly torqued for optimal accuracy. I noticed that the lightweight chassis did transmit slightly more recoil compared to heavier chassis systems, but it wasn’t unmanageable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a backcountry deer hunt, the Timber Creek Enforcer has held up reasonably well. There are a few minor scratches on the anodized finish from rubbing against rocks during the hunt. These are mostly cosmetic.
Durability has been acceptable, although I am mindful of the fact that aluminum, especially in a skeletonized design, is more prone to damage than steel or reinforced polymer. Cleaning is easy. A quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with heavier, more traditional stocks, the Timber Creek Enforcer excels in terms of weight savings, making it significantly more comfortable to carry during long hunts. However, it does transmit more felt recoil. This requires more deliberate shooting technique.
Breaking Down the Features of Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis
Specifications
The Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis is designed for short action Remington 700 rifles and clones. Its primary construction material is aircraft-grade aluminum. This contributes to its incredibly light weight of just 22 ounces.
- Manufacturer: Timber Creek
- Gun Make: Remington
- Gun Model: Remington Model 700
- Action Length: Short Action
- Material: Aircraft-grade Aluminum
- Weight: 22 ounces
- Compatibility: MSR buffer tubes
- M-LOK Compatible
- No Bedding Required
The lightweight design makes it ideal for hunters and shooters who prioritize portability. The M-LOK compatibility allows for easy attachment of accessories such as bipods, lights, and lasers. The lack of bedding requirement simplifies installation, though proper action screw torque is crucial for optimal accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Timber Creek Enforcer performs admirably, providing a stable platform for accurate shooting. The M-LOK slots offer ample space for mounting accessories. The chassis is lightweight, and this translates to easier handling in the field.
The primary strength is its weight, making it a superb choice for backcountry applications where every ounce counts. A weakness is the increased felt recoil due to its lightweight construction; heavier recoiling calibers might not be ideal in this chassis. It mostly meets expectations, fulfilling its promise of a lightweight, modular chassis system.
Design & Ergonomics
The Timber Creek Enforcer’s design is aggressive and modern, with a focus on skeletonization to minimize weight. The anodized aluminum finish is durable and aesthetically pleasing, though it is more prone to scratches than some other materials. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry.
The chassis is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup. The skeletonized design provides ample airflow around the action, potentially aiding in cooling.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Timber Creek Enforcer should last for many years. However, the aluminum construction is more susceptible to damage than steel. Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth is all that’s typically required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Timber Creek Enforcer is compatible with any AR-15-style buffer tube and stock, providing a wide range of customization options for length of pull and cheek weld. The M-LOK slots along the forend allow for the attachment of bipods, foregrips, lights, and lasers. There are no included accessories besides the chassis itself, however the compatibility with MSR buffer tubes provides an open door for customization.
Pros and Cons of Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, ideal for hunting and backpacking.
- Aggressive, modern aesthetic with high-quality anodized finish.
- M-LOK compatibility for easy accessory mounting.
- Simple installation, no bedding required.
- Compatible with readily available MSR buffer tubes and stocks.
Cons
- Increased felt recoil compared to heavier chassis systems.
- Aluminum construction is more susceptible to scratches and damage than steel or polymer.
Who Should Buy Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis?
The Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis is perfect for hunters and backcountry enthusiasts who prioritize weight savings and modularity. It’s also a good option for shooters looking to build a modern-looking, lightweight precision rifle. The compatibility with MSR buffer tubes offers great flexibility in stock selection.
Those who prioritize recoil absorption and maximum durability might want to consider a heavier chassis system made from steel or reinforced polymer. Shooters using magnum calibers may find the recoil in this chassis excessive.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality AR-15 stock and buffer tube to complete the chassis system. A bipod or shooting rest is also recommended for maximizing accuracy.
Conclusion on Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis
The Timber Creek Enforcer Short Action Remington 700 Rifle Chassis delivers on its promise of a lightweight, modular chassis system for Remington 700 rifles. The price is reasonable, considering the features and aesthetics.
I would recommend the Timber Creek Enforcer to anyone looking to build a lightweight hunting or target rifle. The reduced weight and M-LOK compatibility make it a worthwhile upgrade. If you are looking for a lightweight build, this is the chassis for you.