MDT ESS Base Chassis Review
The MDT ESS Base Chassis is a highly versatile and customizable rifle system designed for both utility and adjustability. As a product that caters to a wide range of users, from hunters to competitive shooters, it’s essential to understand its strengths and weaknesses.
Key Features and Benefits
- Modular Design: The ESS Base Chassis is built around a modular design, allowing users to easily swap out components and accessories to suit their needs.
- Customization Options: With a wide range of stocks, triggers, and accessories available, users can tailor their rifle to their specific preferences and shooting style.
- Recoil Lug Accommodation: The ESS Base Chassis is designed to accommodate most aftermarket recoil lugs, ensuring a reliable and secure fit.
- XTN Interface: The XTN interface allows users to install MDT’s Skeleton Rifle Stocks (SRS) series, providing a high level of customization and flexibility.
- Carbine Stock Adapter: The ESS Base Chassis also accepts MDT’s Carbine Stock Adapter, making it compatible with a wide range of carbine stocks.
Stocks Compatible with ESS Base Chassis Models
- SRS-X: 13.5” – 14.5” Part Number: 102611 (multiple colors)
- SRS-X Elite Standard: 13.5” – 14.5” Part Number: 103779 (multiple colors)
- SRS-X Elite Short: 12.5” – 13.5” Part Number: 103440 (multiple colors)
- SRS-XF Folding: 13.75” – 14.75” Part Number: 103452 (multiple colors)
- SCS-Lite (Carbine, needs adapter): 14.25” – 15.25” Part Number: 104583 (multiple colors)
- SCS (Carbine, needs adapter): 13” – 14” Part Number: 102856 (multiple colors)
- CCS (Carbine, needs adapter): 14.25” – 15.25” Part Number: 104717 (multiple colors)
Adapters
- XTN to Carbine Stock Adapter: Part Number – 102690 (allows carbine stocks to be used)
Grips
- The ESS Base Chassis is compatible with all MDT grips
Weights
- ACC Interior Weights: Part Number – 104059
- M-LOK Exterior Forend Weights: Part Number – 103965
Magazines
- This chassis uses AICS-style magazines with a 3.85" CIP length
Other Accessories
- Baker Wings: Part Number – 106385
- Foregrip Adapter: Part Number – 103486
- Chassis Forend: Part Number – 103486
- High Scope Base: Part Number – 106385
Pros
- Highly Customizable: The ESS Base Chassis offers a wide range of customization options, allowing users to tailor their rifle to their specific preferences and shooting style.
- Modular Design: The modular design makes it easy to swap out components and accessories, ensuring a reliable and secure fit.
- Wide Range of Accessories: The ESS Base Chassis is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including stocks, triggers, and forends.
- Strong and Reliable: The ESS Base Chassis is built to last, with a strong and reliable design that can withstand heavy use.
Cons
- Steep Learning Curve: The ESS Base Chassis may require a steep learning curve for users who are new to rifle systems.
- Limited Support: While MDT offers support for the ESS Base Chassis, it may not be as extensive as that offered for other rifle systems.
- Higher Cost: The ESS Base Chassis may be more expensive than other rifle systems, particularly those with more extensive customization options.
- Limited Availability: The ESS Base Chassis may not be as widely available as other rifle systems, particularly in certain regions.
Conclusion
The MDT ESS Base Chassis is a highly customizable and versatile rifle system that offers a wide range of benefits and features. While it may have some drawbacks, including a steep learning curve and limited support, the ESS Base Chassis is an excellent choice for users who value customization and flexibility. With its modular design, wide range of accessories, and strong and reliable construction, the ESS Base Chassis is an excellent choice for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone looking for a high-performance rifle system.
