Meet the **MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit**: First Thoughts
As someone who’s spent over a decade fine-tuning equipment for various demanding environments – from the crisp air of outdoor adventures to the sterile hum of a lab and the gritty realities of workshop projects – I’ve learned that precision and adaptability are paramount. This constant pursuit of the optimal setup recently led me to the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit. It’s a seemingly simple set of aluminum spacers designed by MDT to augment the length of pull (LOP) on their buttstocks. My specific need arose from a new rifle build where the LOP felt just a hair too short for consistent shouldering, impacting my overall shooting platform stability. While I briefly considered fabricating my own solution or looking at universal aftermarket components, the appeal of a purpose-built, integrated solution from a reputable manufacturer like MDT was strong. My initial impression upon unboxing the four aluminum spacers was positive; they felt robust and well-machined, suggesting they’d integrate seamlessly with their intended buttstock. The set offered a clear, quantifiable adjustment, which is always a welcome trait in gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting **MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit** to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds for this particular kit were straightforward: the shooting range and my personal rifle build bench. The scenario was simple: achieving a more comfortable and consistent length of pull on my rifle equipped with an MDT chassis system. I selected the Oryx chassis for this build because it offers a good balance of features and cost, and this spacer kit was a natural, albeit separate, purchase. The primary test was to attach the spacers and see how they altered the LOP, then evaluate the feel and consistency during live fire.
The installation process itself was a testament to good design. After removing the existing buttplate and original spacer (if present), the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit units slide into place with a satisfying, snug fit. The provided screws, once I identified the correct lengths from the kit, secured everything firmly. I tested with one, two, and eventually three spacers to find the ideal LOP for my shooting stance. The adjustment was immediately noticeable, and each addition provided a distinct and predictable change.
During live fire, the impact was significant. A proper LOP allows for a more stable shooting platform, preventing the shooter from having to overextend or scrunch up, which can lead to inconsistent stock weld and follow-through. With the appropriate number of spacers installed, my shoulder position felt more natural, and the rifle seemed to settle into my shoulder pocket more effectively. There were no surprises or quirks; the function was exactly as expected, providing a precise extension to the stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and countless adjustments at my workbench, the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit has proven its worth. The aluminum construction has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of stress, cracking, or deformation despite being tightened and loosened multiple times. The black anodized finish remains intact, with only minor scuffs from tool contact during adjustments – a testament to its durability.
Compared to universal stock adjustment systems I’ve used in the past, which can sometimes feel clunky or imprecise, these dedicated spacers offer a level of integration that’s hard to beat. They don’t introduce any wobble or looseness, which is a common failure point in less integrated solutions. Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is all that’s needed to keep them clean, and they store easily within a range bag or toolbox. There’s nothing to watch out for beyond ensuring the correct screws are used for the desired configuration, a point I’ll touch on later.
Breaking Down the Features of **MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit**
Specifications
The MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit is a straightforward yet effective accessory designed to customize the length of pull on specific MDT buttstocks. This particular kit comes as a 4-pack, providing ample adjustment potential. Each individual spacer is engineered to add precisely 0.25 inches to the overall length of pull. The material is high-quality aluminum, ensuring both strength and a lightweight addition to the firearm. The spacers are finished in a durable black color, designed to match the aesthetics of most MDT products.
These specifications translate directly into practical benefits for the user. The 0.25-inch increment allows for fine-tuning the fit, which is crucial for shooters who need to dial in their ergonomics perfectly. The aluminum construction means these spacers won’t add noticeable weight to the firearm, maintaining its balance. The 4-pack configuration is particularly useful, offering enough adjustment to accommodate significant LOP changes, often more than users might initially think they need, and aligning with the product’s Canadian origin.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit is to extend the length of pull on an MDT buttstock, and in this regard, it performs flawlessly. Each spacer adds a consistent and measurable 0.25-inch increment, allowing for very precise adjustments. This precision is vital for achieving a proper stock weld, which directly impacts accuracy and comfort during shooting.
The main strength of this kit lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It does one thing, and it does it exceptionally well without adding complexity or potential failure points. The biggest weakness, and this is more of a user experience issue than a product fault, is that users may find themselves needing more than the included screws can accommodate to achieve their maximum desired LOP. This necessitates careful consideration of how many spacers will be used at once.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit is intentionally minimalist and functional, reflecting MDT’s focus on practical firearm accessories. The aluminum construction feels solid and precise, with clean edges and uniform thickness across all four units. The black anodized finish is durable and blends seamlessly with MDT’s existing furniture.
Ergonomically, the spacers are designed to integrate perfectly with the intended buttstock mounting points. They have no sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions that could snag or cause irritation. The ease of installation is a significant ergonomic win; they simply slot into place, and the provided hardware secures them without fuss. The only minor ergonomic consideration is the need for correctly sized screws, which can be a brief point of confusion depending on the exact number of spacers used.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit is built to last. Made from robust aluminum, these spacers are designed for repeated installation and removal without degradation. The anodized finish is resistant to scratching and wear, meaning they will maintain their appearance even with frequent adjustments.
Maintenance is practically nonexistent. There are no moving parts to lubricate or wear out. Cleaning involves a simple wipe-down to remove dust or debris. Given their solid construction, these spacers are likely to outlast the rifle they are attached to. The only potential wear point would be if the mounting screws were overtightened or cross-threaded, but this is a user-error issue rather than a flaw in the spacers themselves.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit itself is a kit, containing four aluminum spacers. It also implicitly includes the necessary mounting screws, though user feedback suggests varying lengths might be beneficial for certain configurations. The primary “customization” aspect comes from the number of spacers you choose to install, allowing for adjustments of 0.25″, 0.50″, 0.75″, or 1.00″ in 0.25-inch increments.
Beyond the kit itself, there aren’t really any “accessories” in the traditional sense. However, MDT offers various buttplates and recoil pads that can be used in conjunction with these spacers to further fine-tune the overall length of pull and recoil management. Compatibility with other MDT buttstock components is a key advantage, ensuring a cohesive and functional system.
Pros and Cons of **MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit**
Pros
- Precise adjustment: Each spacer adds a consistent 0.25-inch to the length of pull, allowing for fine-tuning.
- Durable construction: Made from robust aluminum with a hard-wearing black anodized finish.
- Seamless integration: Designed to fit MDT buttstocks, ensuring a clean and secure installation.
- Lightweight: Adds minimal weight, preserving the firearm’s balance.
- Pack of four: Offers substantial adjustment potential for various user needs.
Cons
- Screw length variation: Some users have noted that one of the provided screws may be too short when using the maximum number of spacers.
- Not included with chassis: Many users feel this essential adjustment should come standard with MDT chassis systems, particularly the Oryx.
Who Should Buy **MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit**?
This MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit is ideal for shooters who own MDT buttstocks and find the standard length of pull to be slightly off for their optimal shooting posture. It’s perfect for individuals who are meticulous about firearm fit and understand the importance of a consistent stock weld for accuracy and comfort. If you’re building a precision rifle, especially one used for competition or extended range sessions, this kit offers a cost-effective way to dial in that critical LOP.
Conversely, if you’re not using an MDT buttstock, or if the LOP on your current setup feels perfectly fine, this kit would be an unnecessary purchase. Those looking for a universal solution that works across different rifle platforms might find better alternatives, though often with compromises in fit and finish. For users experiencing the issue with screw length, ensuring you have a small selection of appropriately sized metric screws (e.g., M4 or M5, depending on the specific MDT component) can complement this kit.
Conclusion on **MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit**
The MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit is a well-executed accessory that fulfills its intended purpose with admirable precision and durability. For owners of MDT buttstocks, particularly those using the MDT Oryx chassis, this kit offers a necessary and effective means to tailor the length of pull. The aluminum construction ensures longevity, and the 0.25-inch increments provide granular control for achieving that perfect fit.
While the price point of $35.99 for four spacers might seem a bit steep, especially when considering that some feel they should be included with the chassis, the quality of materials and manufacturing justifies the cost for those who truly need precise LOP adjustment. The minor drawback concerning screw length with maximum spacer configurations is noted, but it doesn’t detract from the overall value proposition for the majority of users. I would recommend the MDT Buttstock Spacer Kit without hesitation to anyone seeking to optimize their MDT rifle build for a more comfortable and consistent shooting experience. It’s a small investment that can yield significant improvements in your platform’s ergonomics and performance.