What's the best chassis for you?

What's the best chassis for your next rifle build?

Every week our sales team is asked "what is the best chassis for me?" That is a very complex question when you look at the different chassis systems we offer. Whether you are a hunter, competitor, recreational shooter, or anything in between, all of those applications are going to require a different overall rifle weight and rifle features to make sure you can perform at your best.

Every rifle chassis build starts with an action. This will dictate which chassis systems you have to choose from. If you don't want limitations and haven't purchased one yet, the Remington 700 inlets are offered for every XLR chassis. You can view the entire list here.

• Chassis systems for hunting.
• Chassis systems for competition.
• Chassis systems for pistols and SBR's.

If you're looking to build a chassis rifle for hunting.

Depending on your action, you have 2 to 4 options. Building a hunting chassis with a Remington 700 or Clone action gives you the choice of either Element 4.0 or ATOM chassis systems, where Tikka, Savage, Howa, Lonepeak and BAT Machine owners currently have the two Element 4.0 models to choose from.

Now that you we have the most important piece of the puzzle out of the way, let's talk weight differences.

Light vs ultralight chassis systems.

Price and weight, the only two differences between the aluminum and magnesium models.

Is the $200 difference for the magnesium chassis worth it? It's been said in the ultralight-backpacking world you can pay up to $100 to shave a single ounce. So, at 6-ounces of savings, we'd say it's a bargain.

If you are looking to build an ultralight chassis system, the magnesium models are going to be the best choice in either the Element (16 ounces) or ATOM (14.5 ounces). Want to save a few bucks and don't mind 6 extra ounces? Go for the aluminum chassis model! Although it does not include the cerakote and weight savings, you still maintain the same features as the Element 4.0 MG for a fraction of the price.

How much modularity do you need?

Both the Element and Atom chassis supply you with a very modular chassis system! When choosing between the two you have to look at the main differences; 5.5 inches of forend length and 1.5 oz. Bipod location on your hunting chassis is a major focus we look at between the chassis models. By attaching your bipod further out on the forend you gain stability and recoil control. If you plan on only shooting off a tripod at all times, then the Atom chassis might work out great for you.

So, what's the best chassis system for hunting?

With feedback from thousands customers we have found that the Element 4.0 MG is the gold standard for hunting rifle chassis systems. When this chassis block is paired with the carbon buttstock and carbon grip, the entire chassis only weighs 28 oz. Add the folding adapter and carbon bag rider to give you the best package on the mountain that still only weighs 34 oz! We recommend this chassis to anyone who is looking to build an ultra-light hunting rifle.

A close second.

With only 6 ounces of additional weight, the aluminum Element 4.0 chassis block is still not going to put any strain on the scale. Plus, this chassis block allows you to save a few more dollars to put toward ammo, or MLOK chassis accessories. Whether a shooter is wanting a lightweight hunting rifle, recreational rifle, or even just a lighter PRS rig, you will be able to achieve the desired weight with the element 4.0 aluminum.

With the carbon buttstock and carbon grip the entire chassis still only weighs 34 oz. But you can add the TR-2 buttstock, mercury rod, TR-2 weights, internal forend weights, and the MLOK side weights, and still get this chassis up over 8 lbs. The Element 4.0 is a truly diverse chassis that will keep you on target anywhere you go!

ATOM Chassis

For certain customers the ATOM chassis is the cream of the crop for an ultralight backcountry rifle. Hunters that plan on mainly shooting off a tripod will reap the benefits of the weight savings and shorter forend. This might be great for some shooters but the majority of our customers prefer the Element for the additional forend length. Whichever chassis you choose, you will be very pleased on your next hunt.

I'm looking for a dedicated competition chassis, what do you suggest?

The big dog! XLR's Envy Pro chassis was designed for PRS shooting. With feedback from the nation's top PRS shooters the Envy Pro has morphed into a powerhouse at the range.

Although you won't be getting this chassis down to the sub 3 lb range, when paired with the TR-2 buttstock and Ergo Grip the Envy pro only weighs 4 lbs 3 oz. With this chassis, you can enjoy the benefits of an enlarged mag well, stiffer forend, and the ability to add even more weight than the Element chassis.

Once all the weights from our competition kit are added the Envy Pro chassis, the weight exceeds 10 pounds. If weight is not a concern and you want the utmost stability, the Envy Pro is the chassis for you!

As mentioned above, Remington 700 and most Clone actions fit this chassis system along with others like Tikka T3 and T1, select Savage and Kelby Black Bear Short Actions. You can view the entire inlet list here or search your action here to find what chassis systems fit.

If you're looking to build a SBR or bolt action pistol.

Small but mighty, the ATOM is our latest chassis! This little guy still packs in all of the features that you need for a precision pistol, short-barreled rifle, or even just a lighter hunting rifle.

A clone of the Element chassis system, the ATOM's 5.5-inch shorter forend makes for a more compact rifle while cutting an additional 1.5 ounces of overall weight when compared to its predecessor. Add a folding stock adapter to this little chassis and you've got a compact rifle that will fit just about anywhere.

Still have questions about which chassis system is right for you?

Don't hesitate to call the shop and speak with a customer service specialist or email us at info@xlrindustries.com.

From the range to the backcountry and everything in between, we've got a precision chassis system to suit your needs and shooting discipline.