MDT’s 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 array of customization options, users can tailor their rifle to their specific preferences and shooting style.
- Semi-Flush Ambidextrous Paddle: The semi-flush ambidextrous paddle is a convenient feature that allows users to quickly and easily access the rifle’s action.
- Recoil Lug Mortise: The recoil lug mortise is designed to accommodate most aftermarket recoil lugs, ensuring a secure and reliable fit.
- Trigger Area: The trigger area is designed to accept many aftermarket triggers, providing users with a range of options for customization.
Stocks Compatible with ESS Base Chassis Models
The ESS Base Chassis is compatible with a wide range of stocks, including:
- SRS-X: 13.5” – 14.5” Part Number: 102611 (multiple colors)
- SRS-X Elite: 13.5” – 14.5” Part Number: 103779 (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
The ESS Base Chassis also features a range of adapters that allow users to swap out components and accessories:
- 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, providing users with a range of options for customization.
Weights
The ESS Base Chassis also features a range of weights that can be added to the rifle:
- ACC Interior Weights: Part Number – 104059
- M-LOK Exterior Forend Weights: Part Number – 103965
Other Accessories
The ESS Base Chassis also features a range of other accessories that can be added to the rifle:
- Baker Wings: Part Number – 106385
- Foregrip Adapter: Part Number – 103486
- Chassis Forend: Part Number – 103486
- High Scope Base: Part Number – 106385
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 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 array of customization options, users can tailor their rifle to their specific preferences and shooting style.
- Semi-Flush Ambidextrous Paddle: The semi-flush ambidextrous paddle is a convenient feature that allows users to quickly and easily access the rifle’s action.
- Recoil Lug Mortise: The recoil lug mortise is designed to accommodate most aftermarket recoil lugs, ensuring a secure and reliable fit.
- Trigger Area: The trigger area is designed to accept many aftermarket triggers, providing users with a range of options for customization.
Cons:
- Steep Learning Curve: The ESS Base Chassis has a steep learning curve, requiring users to understand the various components and accessories.
- Limited Compatibility: While the ESS Base Chassis is compatible with a wide range of stocks and accessories, some users may find that certain components are not compatible with their rifle.
- Higher Cost: The ESS Base Chassis is a premium product, with a higher price point than some other rifle systems on the market.
Conclusion
The MDT ESS Base Chassis is a highly versatile and customizable rifle system that caters to a wide range of users. While it has a steep learning curve and limited compatibility, the benefits of the modular design, customization options, and semi-flush ambidextrous paddle make it a worthwhile investment for users who value flexibility and precision.
