New Build in 338LM - MPA Chassis or Manners T2A

uncle_smokey

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Minuteman
  • Feb 9, 2018
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    The Beach
    Hey All,

    New to the forum, but I have been observing for some time. I appreciate all of the thoughtful opinions here (and even some of the not so thoughtful ones), so asking for feedback on a new build I am putting together.

    I have a couple of custom rifles with Manners T2A's and I love them. Ergo's are top notch and they are a joy to shoot. The next build I am starting will be a 338LM put together by either GAP or Spartan Precision. Stiller TAC338, 28" Bartlein 1.35 MTU, etc.

    My question is this - Is going with a MPA Chassis worthwhile for this build? $$$ is always an object, but a few extra bucks for the bedded Manners with Hawkins CIP bottom metal is not a deal-breaker. Can I expect the same accuracy out of a chassis as I can a properly bedded stock? I like the idea of a monopod on the chassis for fine adjustments on long range shots, but I've been using a rear bag with good results for some time now. Is there anything else that makes one option a clear cut winner over the other?

    Thanks in advance for your responses.

    Todd
     
    There are so many options out there because there are so many different types of people out there. I love the MPA chassis, but still find myself more comfortable behind a Manners T4A/T2A or similar with mini chassis. If you really want a monopod, it can easily be added to the Manners stocks with a section of rail or other preferred attachment method. Now, I can tell you that there are a number of guys that are more comfortable behind a chassis style rifle than a conventional stock and they are not wrong.
     
    Out of curiosity, how much are you looking to spend? You can buy a new MPA 338LM for under $2600....if you need links let me know.

    IMO You can expect the same accuracy out of a chassis. I have a barreled action that is bedded in a manners EH1 and had another EH1 with a mini chassis in it. I shot for accuracy in both with the same BA and it was a wash. Granted, this is a shallow litmus test, but you see a lot of unbedded chassis punching small groups. I can’t tell a difference in my chassis guns vs bedded rigs.
     
    I'd like to spend around $3K for complete rifle, and that does not include the Bartlein that I already have on hand. If I didn't already have the barrel, I would consider the MPA build, but it is a lot funner gathering all the parts yourself and then waiting months for the smith to finish the build for you...

    I was expecting the accuracy to be similar between the two options, and I think it might be worthwhile to preform my own experimenting to see if I can get a chassis to work for me. Still not 100% sold, but definitely leaning the chassis direction.
     
    Hey All,

    New to the forum, but I have been observing for some time. I appreciate all of the thoughtful opinions here (and even some of the not so thoughtful ones), so asking for feedback on a new build I am putting together.

    I have a couple of custom rifles with Manners T2A's and I love them. Ergo's are top notch and they are a joy to shoot. The next build I am starting will be a 338LM put together by either GAP or Spartan Precision. Stiller TAC338, 28" Bartlein 1.35 MTU, etc.

    My question is this - Is going with a MPA Chassis worthwhile for this build? $$$ is always an object, but a few extra bucks for the bedded Manners with Hawkins CIP bottom metal is not a deal-breaker. Can I expect the same accuracy out of a chassis as I can a properly bedded stock? I like the idea of a monopod on the chassis for fine adjustments on long range shots, but I've been using a rear bag with good results for some time now. Is there anything else that makes one option a clear cut winner over the other?

    Thanks in advance for your responses.

    Todd
    Manners. Proven over time and built like tanks. You'll be glad every time ya shoot it...