About 4 months ago I posted on CGN (Canadian Gun Nutz) asking what some of my fellow .22LR enthusiasts were shooting as their Rimfire PRS rifle. After scrolling through all of these submissions, I was inspired to build my own “open division” rifle.
I already had a Savage Mark II sitting in my gun safe so this would make a great foundation for a build. After scouring the internet and facebook I saw lots of shooters using the MDT LSS-22 chassis. I figured I would take a chance and see what all the hype was about. I already had a centerfire rifle sitting in an MDT LSS chassis (the centerfire version of the LSS-22) and so I could essentially build a “.22LR trainer” that copied some of the ergonomics of my larger caliber rifle. This proved to be a win-win situation for me.
Enter the MDT LSS-22
The MDT LSS-22 chassis is a modified LSS made to fit a variety of popular rimfire rifles. It features an all aluminum build and Cerakote finish in either black or FDE (Flat Dark Earth).
It fits the following rifles:
- Savage MKII (and 93R17)
- Ruger American
- Browning T-Bolt
- CZ455
- CZ452
- Anschutz Match 54
- Anschutz Match 64
This chassis require you to purchase an AR15 grip and a buttstock. The interface accepts both Milspec and commercial AR buffertube. This opens up a world of options. There are so many accessories for the AR platform that you can surely make something that is unique to you.
Does it lead to better groups?
MDT claims that their chassis will increase accuracy up to 21%. They do not explain how that came to that conclusion. My assumption is that if you have a rifle with a stock that is not free floated, or flexes under tension, the the MDT is a viable solution. My original Boyds thumbhole stock did not experience these issue, so it should prove interesting to see the difference (if any) made by the chassis system.
Also, in theory due to the way the MDT chassis “beds” the action with their “V groove” system, it should allow for more consistency when compared to non bedded stocks.
I plan on doing an update to the accuracy report on this rifle as soon as I can get more trigger time. The range sessions I have had with this rifle have strong winds. This has not shown good groups. In order to be fair to the MDT chassis I will book some solid time on the indoor range and post groups up.
Installation
The installation of the MDT LSS-22 chassis is very straight forward and simple. Attach your desired stock, and pistol grip. From there, all you need to do is drop your action into the chassis and bolt it in using the provided hardware. According to the MDT website, their may be some additional steps depending on which action you are installing. Be sure to check the instructions specific to your rifle.
Ergonomics
The great thing about this particular chassis system is that you have the option to choose whichever stock or grip you desire. This allows you to replicate similar ergonomics of an existing centerfire rifle you may already own. You can also select items that best fit your body type and shooting style, thus ensuring a more personalized fit.
Pros
- Extra weight makes for solid positions shooting off of barricades/obstacles
- Looks “Tacticool”
- Completely free floated barrel – No forearm flex
- Great Platform to make a rimfire trainer
Cons
- Costs
- Weight – Shooting from standing
- If using the V5 Skeleton Stock, the LOP may be a little long (i’m 5’7″ and it’s borderline for me)
My Build
My “Open-Division” Rimfire Setup for the 2019 season
My .22LR build features the following:
- Savage MKII
- MDT LSS-22 Chassis
- Hogue Grip
- MDT V5 Skeleton Stock w/ adapter (may change)
- Cabela’s Covenant FFP 4-16
- Vortex Rings
- Cheap Harris Bipod knock-off from Amazon
Overall Conclusion
With the 21% accuracy improvement for my particular rifle under question, I am focusing on the other aspects of the chassis system. I really enjoy the overall feel of this new addition. After numerous range sessions, I believe I will be swapping out the skeleton stock for a more basic “buffertube collapsible stock” arrangement. This has nothing to do with the quality, fit or finish of the MDT stock. It has more to do with Minimum “length of pull” for me. In some shooting positions, i feel more stretched out and can’t get comfortable behind the rifle. This also can lead to inconsistency from shot to shot if you find yourself fighting the rifle.
The over quality fit and finish of the chassis itself is top notch. The ability to custom build it to your body type is a great advantage. I would recommend this chassis if you wish to get away from your current “one size fits all tupperware” plastic stock and have something more custom fitted to you as a unique shooter.
Where to buy?
If you are interested in building your own chassis’d rimfire PRS rifle, you can buy direct from MDT.
www.mdttac.com