Masterpiece Arms Matrix Review
The MPA Matrix is the newest iteration of the MPA chassis and shows some significant changes in comparison to the earlier models. The MPA family of chassis has always been geared towards the competition shooter and the Matrix is no different, with many features that allow the shooter to fine-tune the fit just for them and their specific needs.
The most glaring difference between the Matrix and the other MPA chassis is the buttstock. Masterpiece replaced their original skeletonized buttstock with a more traditional looking rear end, yet, they were able to maintain a modern style and flare. The new buttstock also adds a significant amount of weight to the back of the chassis, which largely contributes to its 1.4-pound bulk up from their normal competition line. The other contributing factor is the added length. The Matrix is 2” longer than the BA chassis, allowing for a further separation between the rear bag and the bipods. It also comes standard with a Picatinny rail that can be added if you are poor like me and have not upgraded to an ARCA bipod system yet. Speaking of ARCA, the Matrix has a built-in ARCA rail the entire length of the fore-end, allowing you to add your favorite attachments without the need to purchase additional upgrades, or the fear of it coming loose.
Now that we have covered some of the new features of the Chassis we’ll go into actually using it. I had Pro Rifles put in one of their brand new barreled actions in .308 with a super heavy contour 20” barrel. Mounting it was super simple, as we have come to expect from solid chassis systems, with no bedding required. Unfortunately, the day after getting it built I had to leave on a work trip for over a month. Fortunately, my work gives me access to ranges and time to play, so my new toy got to play wingman and come with me. My first day on the range I knew the whole set up drove tacks better than a kindergarten teacher after finger painting day. After just ten fouling and break in shots I put up a confirmation group that was sub-MOA (to include my pulled shot), with factory match ammo. The Matrix balances well, with the center of gravity for my build being about 1.5” in front of the magazine well. The buttstock may have a little to much weight for the configuration I used, but that could easily be remedied with the MPA weight kit, a longer barrel, or utilizing a suppressed set up to add forward weight. That being said, it still balanced on its own with or without a bag and still felt very natural transitioning between positions. The thumb rest and trigger finger support felt very natural and add back some of that traditional stock feel that I learned to shoot on. The new bead indicator in the level was a nice touch and allows for quick level acquisition in between shots. MPA also included an enlarged, ambidextrous magazine release that makes all magazine changes just a little bit faster and more convenient.
Some of the features that the Matrix has, that I have not been able to test are its regular and enhanced night vision bridge, the Barricade stop, and some of the alternate pistol grips (there are 5 options). But, if just half of the attention to detail, effort, and care went into these features then they will more than exceed your expectations. After a week of shooting and practicing with it, I am sure the Matrix will be the foundation for my next build, which will also include Pro Rifles’ action. I am more than impressed with how far Masterpiece Arms has come since the initial chassis and how they have listened to their customer base and are always improving.
To Learn More Visit-
http://masterpiecearms.com/shop/mpa-matrix-chassis/
Author- Johnathon P. Solinsky- USMC