Let’s dive into the world of rifle chassis systems and discover how to select the perfect chassis setup for ANY shooting style.
Before we begin…
Too often overlooked… the chassis system your rifle sits in can transform accuracy, comfort & consistency.
Whether you’re shooting long-range precision rifle, hunting tags, or dominating your local competition… the chassis system is where it starts.
Here’s the problem:
Buyers ignore chassis systems. They’ll spend thousands on fancy optics & barrels… but never consider how important the chassis truly is.
It’s the ONE area that can make or break a rifle setup.
The RIGHT aftermarket chassis makes everything better. The WRONG chassis limits you from achieving your full potential.
What you’ll learn:
- What Is a Rifle Chassis System?
- Why Upgrade to an Aftermarket Rifle Stock?
- What Features to Look For in a Chassis
- How to Choose a Chassis Based on Your Shooting Style
- Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Rifle Chassis
What Is a Rifle Chassis System?
To keep things simple…
A rifle chassis system replaces your current rifle stock with an aftermarket chassis that uses a rigid aluminium or composite frame to bed your rifle’s barreled action.
Essentially… it’s your rifles skeleton.
Just like your skeleton supports your entire body… a chassis system provides your rifle with a rigid, consistent platform that improves accuracy while allowing you to customise your setup.
Traditional wood & synthetic stocks don’t offer this. Instead… chassis systems are engineered from the ground up for accuracy. They always include adjustable cheek risers, length of pull adjustments & accessory mounting capabilities.
(Quick side note: This is where terms like ARCA Chassis or Picatinny Chassis come from.)
You literally have complete control over how your rifle fits and functions. Because of this… understanding how to choose the right rifle chassis system is extremely important.
Why Upgrade to an Aftermarket Rifle Stock?
Why wouldn’t you upgrade your rifle with a quality aftermarket chassis?
Simple answer: Factory stocks aren’t designed to fit YOUR body.
They’re made to fit “most” people at the cheapest price possible. Problem is…
Every shooter has different hand sizes, cheek heights, shoulder pockets… you get the idea. Thankfully, quality aftermarket chassis from companies like XLR Industries allow shooters to address this problem by offering an adjustable chassis that fits ANY shooter.
Sport & target shooting is HUGE in America right now. In fact, over 52 million Americans currently enjoy participating in shooting activities. With so many new shooters jumping into the sport… there has never been a higher demand for quality aftermarket chassis options.
Makes sense, right?
When your rifle fits like it was made just for you… accuracy & consistency go up. Not to mention how confident you’ll feel at the range or in the field.
Shooters want their rifles to fit perfectly. Upgrading your rifles stock with an aftermarket chassis is the best way to accomplish this goal.
(Hint: Confidence = Better results.)
What Features to Look For in a Chassis
Not every chassis option is created equal. When selecting the best chassis system for your rifles… there are certain features you simply cannot compromise on.
Here’s what to look for:
Adjustability
This should be your number one priority. Aftermarket chassis are all about customisation options. Cheek risers, Length of Pull, buttpad height… make sure you can adjust these settings to dial in your desired fit.
Material / Weight
Typically made from machined aluminium… chassis don’t usually vary too much when it comes to material. Aluminum provides the rigid backbone needed for accuracy. That being said… If you’re a hunter who plans on carrying your chassis everywhere you go… you might want to look into lightweight composite chassis.
Compatibility
Double check that your intended chassis properly fits your rifle’s action. Don’t just assume every chassis will fit your Remington 700, Tikka T3x, or Howa 1500. It’s always best to double check beforehand.
Accessory Mounting Features
Quality chassis always offer interchangeable mounting features. M-LOK slots, ARCA rails, bipod studs… every great chassis will give you options when it comes to attaching accessories.
Lots of attachment options = More versatility.
How to Choose a Chassis Based on Your Shooting Style
Now for the fun part…
Everybody shoots differently and each shooting discipline has different demands. Picking a chassis that compliments your intended shooting style is key.
Below are just a few examples:
Long Range Precision: Heavy is good… when shooting long range. A rigid chassis with high adjustability is preferred. Every ounce of weight adds stability which is critical for precision shooting.
Hunting: Who wants to lug around a heavy chassis all day during hunting season? Didn’t think so. Hunters typically lean towards chassis that are lightweight without sacrificing adjustability.
Competition (PRS / NRL): Speed is king with competition shooting. Competition shooters constantly find themselves moving between positions when it comes time to knock down steel. Having an ARCA rail on your forend is basically mandatory.
(Not to mention, you never know who you’re going to see at the range.)
Tactical / Law Enforcement: As a tactical shooter or law enforcement officer… your chassis needs to withstand abuse. Pick a durable chassis that can handle being dropped or banged around without losing zero.
Whichever discipline you shoot… there’s a chassis out there that was made for YOU.
The global guns & accessories market size is expected to reach $10.15 billion by 2032. Research like that shouldn’t come as a surprise. More & more shooters are recognising the importance of upgrading their rifles stock with an aftermarket chassis.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Rifle Chassis
Here are a few things to keep in mind before making your decision.
(Saving time and money is what this is all about.)
Only looking at price. Fancy labels and flashy metal don’t mean a chassis is built with quality tolerances. Sure, you can find a cheap chassis… but it will show. Don’t sacrifice adjustability for a low price tag.
Not testing the ergonomics. Just because a chassis looks great on Instagram… doesn’t mean it’s comfortable to shoot. If at all possible… handle the chassis before you buy. If that’s not an option… at least watch detailed reviews from other shooters who’ve had a chance to hold it in person.
(Seriously… you don’t want to wish you could’ve tested the ergonomics.)
Going overboard with attachments. You don’t need every accessory known to mankind on your chassis. Keep things simple & only attach what you need for your intended purpose.
See a trend here?
Buying a chassis that doesn’t fit your rifle. Chassis are not one-size fits all. This cannot be stressed enough. Make sure you’re buying the correct chassis for your specific rifle action.
Bringing It All Together
Picking the right chassis system for your needs shouldn’t be complicated. Ask yourself these questions before making your next purchase:
- Does this chassis give enough adjustability to fit the intended needs?
- Is the material worth the extra weight?
- Will this chassis suit the style of shooting intended?
Once again… finding the PERFECT chassis for your rifle all comes down to YOUR shooting style and intended purpose.
- Know why chassis are important.
- Understand the features that matter most.
- Match the chassis to your shooting needs.
- Don’t fall into one of these 4 costly mistakes.
Build a better foundation for your shooting hobby and the improvements will take care of themselves.