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Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

number9

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Jul 2, 2012
105
0
51
Lexington, KY
I know there are lots of these threads, and I've searched and read a lot of them, so I apologize for yet another one....

So I picked up my 700 AAC-SD last week. I knew going in the stock would be junk, and it is. I've been researching stocks and decided on a Manners with the mini-chassis.

I've got Seekins 20MOA base and Seekins Low rings and a SS 5-20x50 scope on the way.

I will be using the rifle mostly off a bench, maybe prone some and will prob take it hunting some as well.

I am debating between the T, TA, T3. I'd like to get your input on the following:

- Adjustable or not?
I plan to wait until I get the base/rings/scope mounted and see how the cheek weld is with the stock stock and go from there as input on if I should get an adjustable model stock or not. I don't want to run a stock pack or anything to get cheek weld if its needed, but I also don't want to add extra weight if it's not needed.

- Forearm width?
Since I'll mostly be using the rifle off a bench or tripod I am leaning to the wider forearm of the T3, but wonder if it would be awkward or bulky to carry hunting? This would be a low percentage of the rifles use, so maybe it's not a big deal?

- Finish, Molded-in or painted?
I like the old 3 color camo they no longer offer, but guess I'll have to settle for the new molded in "splash" looking camo or a solid color. If solid color, I'll prob go OD Green or Leaf Green. If anyone has pics of those, it would be GREAT to see them.
How's the finish on the molded-in? I read on their site where it says imperfections may show through or what not. I don't want to spend a grand on a stock and it look like something I got at Harbor Freight. Are they that bad? Does the painted finish look like a "top of the line premium finish" as they state in person?
Between the molded-in and painted, which has a better tactile feel in the hands and which is more durable? Will the paint chip and flake off easily?

Again, sorry for yet another one of these threads, but I really don't want to spend this much on a stock and have regrets when it finally gets here. Unfortunately, I can't stop by their place and look at them and I don't shoot with any club or group locally where I can do that either. So I'm hoping you guys can give me input on your experience as current owners.

Thanks.

...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Personally I would go T4A, T2A if it's going to be used more for hunting. Adjustability is a must. Nothing against the T3, just like the tactical grip more on the T4/T2. Mini Chasis is the way to go and get a molded in color or molded camo and not a painted one.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I have owned two molded in color MCS-T stocks with mini chassis and have a third on order. The molded colors are fine. Not jacked up looking at all.
82d838f2.jpg


02236bee.jpg

OK, I lied. I have had three. My GAP Thunder Ranch also had a molded MCS-T
2c7d5699.jpg
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Get the adjustable if you can swing it. Nothing is worse than spending $700+ on a stock that you cant get comfortable behind. I run a T5A at the moment and my Badger build is going into a T4 folder if it's available. Get the molded in color. It's molded into the stock vs painted over top so it won't wear off. They're good to go, just make sure you get what you want the first time around. Buy once, cry once.

Also, don't worry about the forearm. I have yet to see a Manners that doesn't fit in a hog saddle.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Great input guys, please keep it coming.

Been doing more and more searching and finding some threads with pics I hadn't seen. That "splash" looking camo pattern just isn't flipping my switch, but it doesn't look too bad I guess. Think Im leaning to the woodland camo, BUT.... I just noticed that you can pick your colors.... I think a OD Green base with Dark Earth and Black would look good - more traditional "woodland" than with the Coyote Tan.... I'd SURE like to see a pic of one, but I know that is likely a rare combo.

I wish the T3 came in an A model. I think the wider forearm would ride a bag better, but if I go adjustable looks like it's the thin forearm of the TA model. I just don't know how the more vertical grip would feel. I guess it would be similar to my AR's huh?

...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I'd recommend the T2 or the new T6 for the sole reason of the slanted buttstock. A slanted buttstock allows the use of a rear bag for adjusting elevation. Move the bag forward to point the rifle up, and move it backward to point the rifle down. This method is not possible with any of the butt-hook designed stocks. I also find that the butt-hook tends to fall off a rear bag with stout recoiling rifles.

The T2 will have the same wide forend as the T3

I'd definitely recommend an adjustable cheek-piece. You will undoubtedly find that a proper cheek weld needs a height adjustment on just about any stock, Manners included, so why not make it easy with the proper hardware?

My Manners stocks are painted. It is a fragile finish, and will start to dissolve if exposed to too many cleaning solvents. In other words, the painted finish requires more care. I'd recommend the mold-in finish if this bothers you.

(T2-A in Leaf Green)
IMG_5506-1.jpg



(T2-A in Flat Black)
Picture002-1.jpg
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I have one in gap camo. I have to admit I did not care for the pattern until I received mine. I like the camo pattern a lot. I was pleased once I saw one in person
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I would definitely go adjustable. As far as the T or T3, thats a personal preference In my opinion. I would go with the T3 and put a Karsten cheek piece on if I had to choose between the ones you have listed for shooting off a bench b/c I like the wider forend. If it was for hunting I would go narrower forend. But personally I would go the T2A (I already have a T1 w/ a Karsten cheek piece), I know its not one you have listed. If you can't swing the adjustable version go with a T2 and put on a Karsten Cheek Piece and save the money.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Oh yea, If you want a good DBM? I would choose CDI, and save the $150 compared to Manners DBM. I have a CDI on mine and couldn't be happier.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: whit</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Oh yea, If you want a good DBM? I would choose CDI, and save the $150 compared to Manners DBM. I have a CDI on mine and couldn't be happier. </div></div>

The OP mentioned he's decided on the mini chassis so bottom metal isn't necessary. It also does much more than a conventional bottom metal setup. If you take the $200 for CDI and add another $250 for bedding, you make out better with the Badger and it's a permanent solution vs breaking down when exposed to solvents and the elements. If you ask me, the mini chassis is one of a kind and worth it's weight in gold.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Alright....I think you guys have talked me into the adjustable cheek option.

So now I've got the TA, T2 and T6 in the mix haha. Narrowed it down to 2 when the T3 was eliminated and then ya had to go and throw the T6 in there
laugh.gif


Do most people have an issue with getting all their fingers on the grip of the T2? The descriptions from their site about the T4 having a longer grip than the T2 leads me to wonder about that. I wouldn't like my pinky hanging off the bottom of the grip.

...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Alright....I think you guys have talked me into the adjustable cheek option.

So now I've got the TA, T2 and T6 in the mix haha. Narrowed it down to 2 when the T3 was eliminated and then ya had to go and throw the T6 in there
laugh.gif


Do most people have an issue with getting all their fingers on the grip of the T2? The descriptions from their site about the T4 having a longer grip than the T2 leads me to wonder about that. I wouldn't like my pinky hanging off the bottom of the grip.

...</div></div>

Wont be an issue...

Bill
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I consider myself the owner of large hands, and I do not have a problem with the T2. My Neanderthal brother however says it bothers him. No worries though, he was able to order his T2s with modified grips so they have the longer length like a T4. Now he has the best of both worlds.

Unless you are confident you have extra-large hands, it won't be an issue

 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Great, thanks for the input, my hands are "normal" I guess so I won't worry about the T2 grip being too short.

Still kicking the models around though and searching all I can.

Does ANYONE here on the Hide have a Manners in the colors I mentioned? OD Green base, Dark Earth and Black? I realize it's prob a long shot.


...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 707electrician</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thebear- do you have any more pics of your t5a you can post? </div></div>

Just a couple older ones. I'm not much of a photographer but I stayed at a Holiday Inn last night.

6zc67q.jpg

5my6pz.jpg

11k8ndj.jpg
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I personally think the T3 is the best of both worlds. With a wider forend it rides a bag well at the range and a day pack in the field. The grip angle is ergonomic so you can carry it all day hunting. not having an adjustable comb isnt of concern to me cause a stock pack works great on mine and thats a helluva lot cheaper plus a spot to carry all my snipery things like hush puppies and deer tags. just my opinion
howa3.jpg
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

My preference for prone shooting is a vertical pistol grip like the T2 and T4, but for field use, I find that a Monte Carlo grip like that on the T and T3 works better.

If your prone shooting will be from bags, then the wider forearm of the T3 may be the way to go. If you are shooting from a bipod, then I don't see where it offers any advantage. The narrower forearm is more comfortable to carry, and is also easier to shoot off-hand.

I'd go with the molded-in cammo if you can pick a scheme and stick with it. Both of my stocks came with single-color paint, and I found the finish quality to be rather nice.

EDIT: Forgot to add that I'm running stock packs from Triad Tactical on both the T and the T3. Even with a raised comb, I need something extra in order to get my eyeball in the right spot when using medium-height rings.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

for mostly prone, I would go with the T4 but for all around shooting, the MCS- is hard to beat. The adjustable cheeck piece is a must but there other options for less money and very little work.
hope this helps.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Make sure you get the adjustable cheek piece. You will not regret it. It is a must in my book. Good Luck on your choice. There are many...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Unless you get a Manners with a raised comb built in you will most likely have to run a stock pack or want an adjustable cheek piece. If you don't want the weight of the KMW style you can add a Karsten Kydex adjustable saddle piece. Some people use the aluminum XLR saddle.

I have a T5 with 90% CF fill and mini chassis that weighs under 3#. I have an HDMR mounted on a Seekins 20moa base with Seekins low rings. I needed some height on the comb. An eagle stock pack with a piece of foam under it made it just right for me. I keep a dope card and a few other small things in the pouch.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Alright, getting closer. You guys have sold me on the adjustable cheek. Getting my rifle out and holding it off hand and prone, I don't like the position my wrist is in with the Hogue stock. I don't know how much different angle the TA grip would be from the stock stock, but the pics look like it's a little steeper, closer to the pistol grip angle like on the T2 and T6. At this point I am leaning toward one of those two.

I'm not wild about the finger grooves on the T6 forearm or the flat for a light rail, but think the "in between" forearm width would be a better all-around'er.

As far as color goes, I'm going molded-in as you guys suggest, so it's down to OD Green or Woodland camo. It'd be nice if you could get like 60/20/20 mix. I think the 40/30/30 mix in some of the recent pics is a little too "busy" looking. These two versions of Woodland camo represent what I am talking about....

eLun_02_caLarge.jpg


eLun_03_aLarge.jpg


DSC00021.jpg



I hadn't looked at McMillan stocks until today, just looking at color combos and IMO that is one area where they REALLY stand above the Manners. Their true camo patterns are VERY NICE looking stocks. The Manners camo looks like an after thought or something. Reminds me of something from the 80's with splatter paint graphics or something. Just really not digging it.

So, whatever version stock I get I'm going to get 2 QD cups on the left side for the sling and at least 1 swivel stud on the forearm for bipod mount. Any reason I should think about getting them anywhere else? OR, getting swivel studs in the normal locations, even though I won't use them?

....
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Manners have other camo patterns than the ones pictured. They are up to par with micmillian. I have both. Manners in future though.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">As far as color goes, I'm going molded-in as you guys suggest, so it's down to OD Green or Woodland camo. <span style="color: #FF0000">It'd be nice if you could get like 60/20/20 mix.</span></div></div>

You can, you just have to ask. FWIW, when I asked about a 60/20/20 Matt told me "they don't look as good to us".

I've got a stock on order now with molded in 40% coyote/30% OD/30% sand...sort of like this:

DSC_0612.jpg


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I hadn't looked at McMillan stocks until today, just looking at color combos and IMO that is one area where they REALLY stand above the Manners. Their true camo patterns are VERY NICE looking stocks. The Manners camo looks like an after thought or something. Reminds me of something from the 80's with splatter paint graphics or something. Just really not digging it.</div></div>

I agree that McMillan's camo options (swirl and otherwise) tend to be more aesthetically pleasing. But when you think about it, isn't the point of camouflage to break up an outline? And doesn't a random pattern break up better than a repeating pattern?

Manners molded-in camo looks, to me, almost like a sponge paint job...and sponge painting's raggedness and randomness makes it more effective at doing the job camo is designed to do than a more traditional pattern.

IMO
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I wasn't crazy about their molded in colors either, but went ahead and ordered a T4A in Gap camo. Turned out they look better in person than in photos. It seems to me the pictures make the colors stand out against each other...maybe its the camera flash.

I like the Mcmillian molded in colors too, but its a crap shoot on what the color percentages actually are when the stock is finally made. Look at some of the stock threads on here to get a idea on color mixes if you decide to go that way.

You can't go wrong with either

BnC
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BoilerUP</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">As far as color goes, I'm going molded-in as you guys suggest, so it's down to OD Green or Woodland camo. <span style="color: #FF0000">It'd be nice if you could get like 60/20/20 mix.</span></div></div>

You can, you just have to ask. FWIW, when I asked about a 60/20/20 Matt told me "they don't look as good to us".

I've got a stock on order now with molded in 40% coyote/30% OD/30% sand...sort of like this:

DSC_0612.jpg


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I hadn't looked at McMillan stocks until today, just looking at color combos and IMO that is one area where they REALLY stand above the Manners. Their true camo patterns are VERY NICE looking stocks. The Manners camo looks like an after thought or something. Reminds me of something from the 80's with splatter paint graphics or something. Just really not digging it.</div></div>

I agree that McMillan's camo options (swirl and otherwise) tend to be more aesthetically pleasing. But when you think about it, isn't the point of camouflage to break up an outline? And doesn't a random pattern break up better than a repeating pattern?

Manners molded-in camo looks, to me, almost like a sponge paint job...and sponge painting's raggedness and randomness makes it more effective at doing the job camo is designed to do than a more traditional pattern.

IMO </div></div>

Boiler - which model is that in your pic? Thanks
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: FALex</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Boiler - which model is that in your pic? Thanks </div></div>

Its a T4A.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Alright....I think you guys have talked me into the adjustable cheek option.

So now I've got the TA, T2 and T6 in the mix haha. Narrowed it down to 2 when the T3 was eliminated and then ya had to go and throw the T6 in there
laugh.gif


Do most people have an issue with getting all their fingers on the grip of the T2? The descriptions from their site about the T4 having a longer grip than the T2 leads me to wonder about that. I wouldn't like my pinky hanging off the bottom of the grip.

... </div></div>


Verify with Manners first that your size action will work with the adj cheek piece. Both of my Surgeons will not. The bolt interferes with the cheek piece if it is other than flat with the rest of the stock.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I wish the T3 came in an A model. I think the wider forearm would ride a bag better, but if I go adjustable looks like it's the thin forearm of the TA model. </div></div>

Did you check with Manners that they can't do a T3A?

The T3 is my favorite. I know people don't think it's "Tactical" but it's a great all around stock that shoots great from any position.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

Did you check with Manners that they can't do a T3A?

The T3 is my favorite. I know people don't think it's "Tactical" but it's a great all around stock that shoots great from any position. </div></div>

No, I just figured that if they could they'd have it listed like all their other stocks.

I called and talked to them today about the T6 stock. She said she didn't know when they'd have pics or anything up on the webpage but they would take orders for it over the phone.

I asked about a 60/20/20 camo mix and she told me they only do them in 40/30/30.

She said current lead times are around 16 weeks.

...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I asked about a 60/20/20 camo mix and she told me they only do them in 40/30/30. </div></div>

Tom himself has told me they can do mixes other than 40/30/30...FWIW
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Well it might be worth asking. I don't see why they couldn't as the rear of the stock is basically the same as the T and it's offered in an adjustable set up. Might just not be mentioned but doable if you ask.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Verify with Manners first that your size action will work with the adj cheek piece. Both of my Surgeons will not. The bolt interferes with the cheek piece if it is other than flat with the rest of the stock.</div></div>

I ordered my Manners T2A and I didn't even think of asking about this. Guess I'll be calling back tomorrow...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: aggie410</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I ordered my Manners T2A and I didn't even think of asking about this. Guess I'll be calling back tomorrow... </div></div>

What action are you running, Aggie? The one's that gave me trouble were a 1086 and a 1581 , both on T5A's.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

You want the adjustable riser. It's laterally adjustable too so you can kick it over to allow the eye closer to scope centerline.

Howa3087a.jpg


The only reason my little Howa has a TA is the T6A wasn't available. My BAT sits in a new T2A. For me the vertical grip is the only way to go. If you must have a T3A, Hide member Stockdoc installed the Terry Cross hardware in my T3.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...912#Post3227912
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Sweet, I didn't know it adjusted laterally.

I am leaning heavily to the T6 - I just want to see more pics of it and also the "new hunting stock" that Tom mentioned in the T6 thread he started.

I will shoot this rifle from bench a lot more than I will in the field so I think the vertical grip will suit better, and reports I've read is that it is comfortable in the field as well.

The 2" wide forearm of the T6 as Tom describes is very interesting, not too skinny, not too wide. Sounds to be just right for both bench and field use. I'd just like to see the "official" pics and descriptions that get put up on the website before actually pulling the trigger on it.

...
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MWDG3</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You want the adjustable riser. It's laterally adjustable too so you can kick it over to allow the eye closer to scope centerline.

Howa3087a.jpg

</div></div>

Never knew this either ^
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MWDG3</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You want the adjustable riser. It's laterally adjustable too so you can kick it over to allow the eye closer to scope centerline.

Howa3087a.jpg


The only reason my little Howa has a TA is the T6A wasn't available. My BAT sits in a new T2A. For me the vertical grip is the only way to go. If you must have a T3A, Hide member Stockdoc installed the Terry Cross hardware in my T3.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...912#Post3227912 </div></div>



How did you get that "bolt channel" cut into the riser?
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

Dang that gun looks good...... Oh lol it's mine
smile.gif
Its a t4a with a APA bottom medal Tom called the color pattern a reverse sage. <div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BoilerUP</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: number9</div><div class="ubbcode-body">As far as color goes, I'm going molded-in as you guys suggest, so it's down to OD Green or Woodland camo. <span style="color: #FF0000">It'd be nice if you could get like 60/20/20 mix.</span></div></div>

You can, you just have to ask. FWIW, when I asked about a 60/20/20 Matt told me "they don't look as good to us".

I've got a stock on order now with molded in 40% coyote/30% OD/30% sand...sort of like this:

DSC_0612.jpg


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I hadn't looked at McMillan stocks until today, just looking at color combos and IMO that is one area where they REALLY stand above the Manners. Their true camo patterns are VERY NICE looking stocks. The Manners camo looks like an after thought or something. Reminds me of something from the 80's with splatter paint graphics or something. Just really not digging it.</div></div>

I agree that McMillan's camo options (swirl and otherwise) tend to be more aesthetically pleasing. But when you think about it, isn't the point of camouflage to break up an outline? And doesn't a random pattern break up better than a repeating pattern?

Manners molded-in camo looks, to me, almost like a sponge paint job...and sponge painting's raggedness and randomness makes it more effective at doing the job camo is designed to do than a more traditional pattern.

IMO </div></div>
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

I'm just starting the hunt for a new stock and really considering Manners. I've had several McM's, HSP, and AI so naturally Manners is looking quite interesting. Thinking of going with a folder though.

Anyone have any feedback yet on the new folders?
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

My third manners is due to arive tomorrow. I have 1 T4A in Black Paint, a T5A Molded in Desert and the new one is a T5A with Chassis and molded in woodland. This is my first with the chassis and I hope to fall in love with it.
 
Re: Manners stock owners.....could you help a guy out

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: K2Ballistics</div><div class="ubbcode-body">How did you get that "bolt channel" cut into the riser? </div></div>

Manners cuts them wide now so the bolt can come out with the riser up. Depending on how high the riser sits you still may need to open it up more. Also I had to widen the groove after moving the riser full right. The two riser pillars accept the same Allen wrench as the clamp.