• Watch Out for Scammers!

    We've now added a color code for all accounts. Orange accounts are new members, Blue are full members, and Green are Supporters. If you get a message about a sale from an orange account, make sure you pay attention before sending any money!

Manners or McMillan

para1505

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Oct 20, 2010
699
58
58
Columbia MO area
I am starting a new rifle build in August. I am trying to decide between two different stocks. This rifle will be used for long range tactical competitions. The first stock is a McMillan A1-3, The other one is a Manners MCS-T3. I would like to hear about the pros and cons that you HIDERS feel about these two stocks. Also another question about the Manners is I was looking on their site and was wondering about their DBM Mini Chassis system. They had it has a drop in bolt up and go system. Does this work as good as bedding?
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

You can't go wrong with the Manners T3. I have 3 of them now and will be getting another when I get a chance. I love the higher comb than the McMillans and also the more rounded forend. It's a great competition stock.

My newest has the Mini Chassis option but isn't built yet so can't comment personally on them but from people I have spoken to they work very well. Just like an AICS in that you just bolt it in and go. It's a good option to have.

Manners now has the molded in solid and camo patterns as well. I got my last in the woodland pattern. Here's a pic and some pics of the mini chassis

PB090248-1.jpg

PB090249.jpg

PB090250.jpg

5758836805_eae48f1fb8_b.jpg
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Go Manners with the Mini Chasis, you will be very happy!
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Recently won a Manners cert so I got a T2 w/ a mini-chassis. Loved it so much that I bought another T2 w/ mini-chassis for 2nd rifle. Personally, love the ergo on the T2 and the stock itself feels tank-tough. Buddy of mine has a McM and it is also an outstanding stock. The McM finish is a bit smoother than the Manners finish; I actually like the rougher finish on the Manners more because it feels easier to grip securely.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Some very good advice above, in the middle, and below... MANNERS!!

DK
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Rob that is a sweet looking stock w/mini chassis. I will robaly go that route. Manners is only an 1 1/2 hours from where I live. I will also have to check out those camo patterns they have.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You can't go wrong with the Manners T3. I have 3 of them now and will be getting another when I get a chance. I love the higher comb than the McMillans and also the more rounded forend. It's a great competition stock.

My newest has the Mini Chassis option but isn't built yet so can't comment personally on them but from people I have spoken to they work very well. Just like an AICS in that you just bolt it in and go. It's a good option to have.

Manners now has the molded in solid and camo patterns as well. I got my last in the woodland pattern. Here's a pic and some pics of the mini chassis

PB090248-1.jpg

PB090249.jpg

PB090250.jpg

5758836805_eae48f1fb8_b.jpg
</div></div>

+1
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I just got a Manners T5 and I love it. Wasn't 100% on a thumbhole stock but am very glad now that I went that way. Got one pre-inletted for M5 DBM, got a PTG bottom metal from RWS, and I am a happy camper, for about $190 less than an AICS 1.5 chassis. I didn't really want a plain AICS 5rd mags anyway - got two Alpha type 2 308 mags coming.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I got a manners with the mini chassis and its flawless. Definately manners
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I love my Manners T4a. Then again its the only high end stock i've used before.

But I'm hooked and that is all I'll probably ever buy.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

My favorite two stocks out of them all thus far are the Mcmillian A5 and the HTG both very comfortable stocks for me

Manners are definitely nice but I like the feel of the McMillian's better.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Either are GTG. Find the one that fits you the best. Mine just so happens to be the McM A4.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: para1505</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Rob that is a sweet looking stock w/mini chassis. I will robaly go that route. Manners is only an 1 1/2 hours from where I live. I will also have to check out those camo patterns they have.
</div></div>

Definitely take the ride down and talk to Tom. He's a great guy and will probably give you a quick tour of the shop. It's really cool to see how they are made. We were out there in March and got a look.

Bring some money too as they have stocks ready for sale. Just in case you see something you like
wink.gif
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

i bought Mc Millan and Manners, all that is left are the Manners.
hope this helps.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Bought a A1-3 off of McMillans specials for my CDNN FN SPR action. I liked it so much I built 2 more rifle's on them with a third being built right now. The T3's look nice, but prefer the A3 forearm.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Manners service is second to none. They will send you a test stock of any type and all you pay is shipping and ins back ($20). Tom will talk to you personally and get you fixed up.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

tigerfan9 that is good to know about the test stock. I have never heard of anyone doing that. I might have to give them a call.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

In Rob01 pics it looks like their is a screw in the side of the stock between where the reveiver would go and the bottom metal. Can someone tell me what that is for?
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: para1505</div><div class="ubbcode-body">tigerfan9 that is good to know about the test stock. I have never heard of anyone doing that. I might have to give them a call.</div></div>

they sent me a T5 b/c that is what i thought i wanted, and turns out i was wrong and then talked to tom. after discussing how the T5 fit and what i wanted he suggested the T2, and sent me one of those. the t2 fit like a glove and i ordered the T2A which will be here in august.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

The mini chassis system is made by Badger and installed in the stock. The screw is an attachment point for extra strength.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I went from a B&C Medalist with the aluminum block to a Manners T5 with Badger Mini Chassis and my Factory Rem700 went from a consistent 1 to 1 1/2" gun at 100 to 1/2 to 3/4" with 5 shot groups, factory action and barrel. Considering that is going from a pretty good stock into the Manners I'd say that's good. I had the fully adjustable B&C and like the Manners a lot better
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Here is a 5 shot, 100 yard sight-in group my wife shot with her Rem700 5R .308 WIN in a Manners T5 mini-chassis (this chassis is not bedded):

100ydsightin.jpg


Here is a 3 shot group she shot at 400 yds:

300yds.jpg


I had to dremel out some material to fit the Timney in the stock, but otherwise it is drop in and go. I didn't even need to mess with the action screws.

The next rifle I build will use a T3 mini-chassis. I just don't think you can go wrong such a functional yet awesome all-around system.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

redirt78 I haqve a 700Varmint in a B&C LT thumb hook. Had the receiver and bolt trued, the smith said that the tendean threads (I kknow thats probaly not the right spelling or name, but I just can't remember the right name for them) was true enough. skim bedded the receiver and wyatts bottom metal and it will shoot .6" at 200 yards. But I just don't seem to be happy with the stock any more. I really can't explain why, I use to be. So I am going to do this other build.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Has anyone bought a trued receiver from Northwest Action Works LLC. Their site says you can purchase a SS R700 bolt and receiver that is trued for 599.00
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I've got a T2 with an A5 at CDI being inletted...looking forward to comparing the two side-by-side.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

McMillan A5 all the way. Inletting is perfect. Manners, not so much.

Regards, Paul.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bolt fluter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">McMillan A5 all the way. Inletting is perfect. Manners, not so much.

Regards, Paul.</div></div>
I have also been told this by a couple of guys who have a lot of experience with both.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Same here. I have taken tours of both facilities and watched how both stocks are inletted on large computer controlled machines and find it hard to believe either inletting is coming not right from the factory.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

As a previous poster commented, it’s a matter of preference. McMillan and Manners are the best of the best when it comes to rifle stocks. The styles and options is what separates them, not the quality. Consider what you want out of a stock and see which company offers a model that fits your needs best.

Manners definitely scored with the mini chassis. One of those ideas that I’m sure had everyone else feeling silly for not thinking of it first.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: para1505</div><div class="ubbcode-body">BoilerUP let me know the results </div></div>

Will do!

...while wishing Manners produced a Savage mini-chassis...
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Buddy has a manners t2a and McMillan a5, I just bought a McMillan a5, getting the loggerhead cheek installed. It just felt better to me and being able to sit behind and fondle both was great.

So McMillan A5 for me
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I have some McMillans and couldn't be happier. McMillan has awesome customer service and you are able to customize the colors of the stock.
I did have a inlet issue from the factory and they fixed it. Had a stock inlet for a Seekins DBM and the inlet was not opened enough for the DBM. They are human!!!
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: CSTACTICAL</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
6212168613_4dc5238918.jpg



Mike @ CST </div></div>

Wow Mike, that is an awesome paint job! Would you mind telling me who did it?

thanks,
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

Just prepping my new T5 for bedding, have to say its an awesome stock, the inletting for the Badger DBM is about as perfect as you can get. I've got a T4 for a Tikka and the drop in inletting on that is spot on too. Manners all the way for me.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

If we can be of help in getting one a Manner stock feel free to ask

thanks Mike I'll check it out
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I had a Manners waiting on my porch when I got home a bit ago. I have not bolted a barreled action in it, but first gropes and fondles leave me thinking I like my McMillans the best of the two. It might just be what I am used to, but the Macs just feel a bit better to me.

Again, I have not put a barreled action in it or taken it to the range. Just first impressions.

I have heard nothing but praise for Tom Manners, personally and professionally. I have dealt with McMillan for several years and they are also top notch- nary a complaint.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I have two McMillans and have shot a friend's Manners. The palm swell seemed larger on the Manners to me. It wasn't uncomfortable, just different than what I was used to. All my dealings with McMillan have been outstanding. Their customer service is excellent. Can't go wrong with either.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I've held a few Manner's and LOVE the looks of just about every model they make but my A3-5 feels like home.
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I have a Manners and McMillian. The palm swell does feel larger. The A5 just feels more comfortable.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: swage</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have two McMillans and have shot a friend's Manners. The palm swell seemed larger on the Manners to me. It wasn't uncomfortable, just different than what I was used to. All my dealings with McMillan have been outstanding. Their customer service is excellent. Can't go wrong with either. </div></div>
 
Re: Manners or McMillan

I have 2 mcmillan a5's and have a friend that has had several manners. And I my opinion the fit and finish on the the manners is nowhere near as nice as my McMillan. Even my friend agrees he will never buy another manners just because of this alone. Again this is just my honest opinion.