Building a custom rifle is a goal many of us have. However, the capabilities of modern factory rifles, combined with a few aftermarket improvements, offer a solid middle ground. For Jeff of PNWild, that's where he takes his viewers in his latest YouTube video.
THE RIFLE
Jeff visits Kris Cantrell of Cantrell Outdoors, a well-known local gun shop and rifle manufacturer, to demonstrate how easy it is to upgrade a factory rifle. The rifle in question is a Savage 110 Ultralight chambered in 7 PRC. While it's already a good factory rifle, the stock leaves much to be desired. That's where the MDT HNT 26 chassis — a lightweight, backcountry-focused system designed to improve handling, ergonomics, and accuracy—comes into play. The video serves as a clear, step-by-step guide for viewers interested in making the same upgrade.
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
The walkthrough starts with the most crucial step: clearing the rifle. After verifying the rifle is empty, Kris removes the two factory action screws, lifts off the factory stock and bottom metal, and sets it aside. For home tinkerers, one benefit of the HNT 26 system is that it doesn't need bedding, which makes the process easier for everyone.
After removing the factory components, position the MDT chassis and loosely thread in the action screws. During this, Kris offers an important tip: hold the rifle vertically and tap the butt on a solid surface. The tap ensures the recoil lug seats properly in the chassis before tightening. Then, gradually tighten the action screws, alternating between them to provide even alignment and proper torque.
Another critical and often overlooked feature of the HNT26 is its folding stock. Besides making it easier to carry, Kris explains why its ability to lock at a 90-degree angle is beneficial for field maintenance.
Next is the forend installation. Jeff selected a version with both M-LOK and ARCA attachment points, providing maximum versatility for mounting bipods, tripods, or other accessories. Once everything is aligned correctly and all components are torqued to specs, the main assembly is complete. The final step involves adjusting the length of pull. Using the included MDT spacers and screws, Kris fine-tunes the stock to Jeff's preferences. The system is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for quick and intuitive ergonomic customization. Jeff's setup is complete with a Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22 optic, resulting in a top-tier long-range hunting rifle.
ZOOMING OUT
By the end of the video, Jeff's Savage 110 Ultralight has been transformed into a lighter, more accurate, and more adaptable rifle—an ideal setup for serious hunting or long-range backcountry shooting. For more hunting tips and guides, make sure to check out PNWild.
