PDA

View Full Version : Mega Arms MTS-400 Review



TripleBravo
3 November 2010, 19:27
The Mega Arms MTS-400 is the rifle length version of their monolithic rail platform. Constructed from a single piece of Billet 7075-T6 aircraft grade aluminum alloy it weighs in at 26.6 oz. It is designed to work with any mil spec lower, but the deep black anodizing and unique styling probably work best with Mega’s own billet lower.

The MTS-400 ships in a cardboard box with a foam cutout insert. Included in the box are the rail, a barrel nut, a barrel wrench, a tube of anti-seize grease, and instructions that include photographs.

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/parts-on-OD-01.jpg

The barrel wrench in and of itself is well constructed. It’s set up for use with a ½ inch torque wrench. According to the directions, setting the torque wrench to 65 ft lbs. achieves the desired 75 ft lbs. of torque on the nut.

(Notice the quality weld)

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/tool-weld-01.jpg

The MTS-400 will accept standard barrels and has the ability to accommodate both carbine and mid-length gas systems as long a low-pro gas block with two set screws is used. There are two ports cut in the bottom rail to allow the installation of the gas block set screws. One port is lined up for carbine length gas systems and the other is for mid-length gas systems.

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/gas-block-ports.jpg

ASSEMBLY:

First, as the directions state, you should dimple your barrel to allow the set screws to properly secure the gas block to the barrel. Rainier Arms sells the perfect tool for the job found here: (http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=1089 ) and pictured below.

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/dimple-drill-guide-01.jpg

This tool allows you to drill the dimples so that they are aligned properly opposite the gas port in the barrel. Use an 11/64 bit and drill your dimple approximately the depth of the drill bit tip. The dimples look like this when you are done.

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/barrel-dimples-01.jpg

The barrel is now ready to be installed in the MTS-400. Cover the barrel extension and barrel nut with grease or the supplied anti-seize. Insert the barrel and ensure the extension is fully seated. Tighten the barrel nut with the supplied barrel wrench to 65 ft. lbs. Remember to loosen then re-tighten a second time to the proper torque.

Next you must install your gas tube into your gas block. Then install this gas system assembly onto the barrel. Install the gas block set screws properly through the port cut in the bottom rail.

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/gas-block-installed-close-up.jpg

Now you can install your muzzle device on the barrel. With a BCG, charging handle, and accessories you have your completed monolithic railed upper.

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/upper-complete-on-white-02.jpg

PROS AND CONS:

The MTS-400 is a versatile rail that accepts several different barrel options and offers plenty of real estate for accessories. However, it is impossible to install a pinned gas block under the rail. This first generation MTS-400 also lacks rail markings and integrated QD sockets. However, the GEN2 model is being designed with QD swivel attachment points, a bolt release pocket with enough space to allow for Magpul's BAD lever, and redesigned triangles to reduce weight. The ETA for the Gen 2 is the first quarter in 2011.

Additional images below:

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/parts-on-case-01.jpg

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/ports-on-case-01.jpg

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/upper-and-lower-jacket-01.jpg

http://i718.photobucket.com/albums/ww189/wjt1169/Mega%20MTS-400/rifle-on-FDE-02.jpg

Post your comments and discussion here:

http://www.weaponevolution.com/forum/showthread.php?2715-Mega-Arms-MTS-400-Review&p=25007#post25007