I am a very happy owner of a Seekins Element in 6.5 PRC. Here's my thoughts on the changes.
1. Very impressed that the prices remain static. Kudos to Seekins on that!
2. I am very unhappy about the M-Lok! It's going to add weight, and does absolutely nothing for me! I much prefer to add my own little arca plate. Why can't they just make it an upgrade option? Also not a fan of the added weight of the adjustable comb height. There's very few things more important than weight in a hunting rifle for me. I hunt backcountry pretty much exclusively, and carry my rifle up and down so much incredibly rough country every year. 1/2# extra is a big deal! Especially when it's a 1/2# that does nothing for me! Really hate this change!
3. Quick barrel change does nothing for me, but I suppose it's a selling point for some. I'm never wanting to re-zero just to shoot a new cartridge from the same platform. I also reload, so there's that.
4. Very happy with the shorter barrel options for the PH3! If they wouldn't also have the added weight of the M-Lok and adjustable cheek height, it would really make the PH3 a great option.
5. Also wish you wouldn't be forced to go Carbon Barrel in the Element line. It isn't a deal breaker, but I'm not a fan of Carbon Barrels.
6. I do love that they added the 7mm Backcountry. Intrigued by this offering.
7. Anyone in the North Idaho area want to sell me their Element in 6.5 PRC? I need to get one of the originals for my son before they're gone.
Just goes to show how we all look at these things differently.I have a 7 PRC Element and absolutely love it. With that said, I added a Pic rail to it for a bipod and had to add a cheek pad to the stock to get a good fit. I couldn't be more thrilled with the changes they've made. The M-Lok adds easily customizable attachments and rigidity to the stock. The cheek riser is the best addition, by far. I have looked for solutions and ended up with a cheek pad, but have considered sending my stock off for a custom cheek riser to be cut and installed. And the QC barrel is amazing. I've considered running other chamberings and now this is a quick swap, 3-4 shots max to zero it, and game on. And if I don't like the carbon fiber barrel, there are ton's of all metal options for super cheap from Seekins. As far as weight, the rifle was already lighter than I wanted even with a silencer installed. This is another great improvement.
The changes they've made were a total home-run as far as I'm concerned. And thank god they kept that amazing palm swell. One of my favorite things about the Seekins bolt guns is that grip.