AR stock designs have come a long way since the original, old-school M16A2 fixed stock.
If you’re a smaller-statured shooter or need to wear a lot of clothing/gear, consider a collapsible stock. A fixed stock might make sense if you’re shooting at longer distances and have the time to settle in for a long shot and do not require extra maneuverability.
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Remember that the lower receiver is the part of the AR-platform rifle regulated and considered the firearm by federal law. When making modifications, make sure they abide your state and local laws.
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Ace Hammer
The Hammer (HMR) stock from Ace Ltd. is touted as the world’s strongest AR stock. It is machined from heat-treated, aircraft-grade aluminum and is tough and rugged while being completely user adjustable. The seven length-of-pull positions are laser-etched onto the main tube. The tube uses a spring-loaded ball bearing to ensure collapsing and expanding the stock is smooth and effortless. The cheekpiece of the Hammer stock is also adjustable for height so a user can customize it to their stature and optic. (riflestocks.com; 888-736-7725)
ATI TactLite
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The new TactLite AR-15 stock from Advanced Technology International (ATI) is one of the lightest AR-15 stocks on the market, weighing in at roughly 5.85 ounces. The TactLite (see photo next page) stock also boasts an industry-first constant inner diameter throughout the length of the stock, with versions available for both military and commercial-spec rifles. This innovative design feature reduces any movement of the buffer tube in the stock system. The buffer tube is also fixed between a slide mechanism comprised of a material with an extremely low friction coefficient, which provides a secure and tight fit with minimal resistance. The six-position-adjustable stock also features a new slim, lightweight version of ATI’s Scorpion Recoil Pad, as well as a (QD) sling mount and slot. (atigunstocks.com; 800-925-2522)
BCM Gunfighter
The new BCM Gunfighter stock is an improvement on the M4 units BCM currently sells. Featuring a streamlined, snag-free design, this new stock still fits all mil-spec-sized buffer tubes and doesn’t need the additional external tension adjustment that other units do. A large adjustment latch runs over half the length of the underside, making adjustments easy. BCM patented the internals, with the main locking piece made from a heat-treated steel alloy, as compared to the more typical single pin found in other adjustable stocks. (bravocompanymfg.com; 877-272-8626)
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DPMS Pardus
DPMS’ Pardus collapsible AR stock is constructed of lightweight, fiber-reinforced Zytel polymer and comes in an all-business black finish. Unlike other AR buttplates, the Pardus buttplate is curved and has a saw-tooth texture so it will stay tucked into a user’s shoulder pocket. A Monte Carlo-style cheekrest offers more shooting comfort. Four integrated slots allow numerous sling attachment options. Users can adjust the length of pull via an ergonomic latch that has built-in finger grooves. (dpmsinc.com; 888-736-7725)
Ergo F93 Pro
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The eight-position F93 collapsible stock has one of the longest length-of-pull adjustment ranges available. It is 8 inches from receiver to buttplate when collapsed and 12 inches when fully extended. The cheekpiece is fixed to eliminate rattle and provide a constant and repeatable cheekweld. The stock offers two quick-detach sling attachment points and three sling-attachment slots. Available in black, Flat Dark Earth, OD green and black/tan. (ergogrips.net; 877-281-3783)
FAB Defense GL-MAG
The FAB Defense GL-MAG M4/AR-15 survival buttstock has a magazine carrier built in. The sleek stock design is snag free and fully adjustable for length of pull yet offers the convenience of a magazine carrier that can hold standard-sized M4 magazines. It is made of high-grade polymer that’s durable, reliable and lightweight. The ergonomic design uses a quick-release button that allows an operator to keep the carbine shouldered during a magazine change. (themakogroup.com)
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Hogue OverMolded Collapsible
The Hogue OverMolded Collapsible buttstock for AR-platform rifles has options to fit both mil-spec and commercial-sized buffer tubes. Its reinforced-polymer construction features an OverMolded rubber cheekpiece, and the rubber/polymer hybrid buttpad provides for snag-free shouldering. It uses a rubber friction fit so it does not move or rattle. Multiple swivel sleeve and sling mounting locations are built in. It is available in seven different colors. (hogueinc.com; 800-438-4747)
LaRue Tactical RAT
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The RAT buttstock from LaRue Tactical has a two-stage trigger mechanism that allows a user to adjust the length of pull while in a variety of shooting positions. The six length-of-pull adjustments are smooth and easy to make. The outside of the stock is made of glass-filled polymer. It features ambidextrous sling swivel sockets and integrated 1-inch slots for numerous sling attachment options. The locking buttplate of the RAT stock also slides open to expose an internal compartment. (larue.com; 512-259-1585)
Magpul ACS
The ACS (Adaptable Carbine/Storage) stock is a simple drop-in replacement that can enhance the ubiquitous AR carbine’s performance. The stock is designed to be snag-free, so it won’t catch on gear or your environment. The sloping cheekpiece offers a wide contact surface for a better cheekweld. Two water-resistant compartments are located on the left and right sides of the stock. The ACS features a friction-lock system that minimizes excessive stock movement. It mounts on any mil-spec tube. (magpul.com; 877-462-4785)
MFT BattleLink Minimalist With Paracord
The BMSNRAT and BMSMILNRAT BattleLink Minimalist stocks from Mission First Tactical (MFT) include paracord to make the stock snag-free. Braided paracord spans from the toe of the buttpad to the forward-most sling attachment. The paracord can also be removed and used in emergency situations. The Minimalist is constructed of a tough, lightweight polymer with an angled, non-slip, rubberized buttpad that can be easily and comfortably used with and without body armor.
(missionfirsttactical.com; 267-704-0001)
TacStar AMRS
If match-grade accuracy is a requirement, then the TacStar AMRS (Adjustable Match Rifle Stock) is a good choice for a stock upgrade. The AMRS is compatible with A2 buffer tubes. The comb height and the length of pull can be adjusted for a custom fit. A hidden Picatinny rail allows users to attach a monopod. Quick-release sling swivel ports are built into the stock as well as numerous fixed slots for attaching a sling. (tacstar.com; 800-225-9626)
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