Stock picks depend not on who you know, but how you’re built. Each operator’s shoulder pocket and cheekweld is slightly different, and though the fixed A2-style and the M4 collapsible stocks are good one-size-fits-all solutions, you have options. Think of AR stocks as falling into two camps.
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The first are the collapsible, compact types that are suited for CQB or home defense, and the second camp is the nearly infinitely adjustable precision stocks for long-range work. Any of these stock options will help maximize your AR’s performance, whether it’s for fun work in the hunting fields or for self-defense duty.
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Adaptive Tactical EX Performance Adjustable AR/M4 STOCK
Made with impact-resistant polymer, the Adaptive Tactical EX Performance AR/M4 Stock is durable and tough. Featuring an easy-to-reach rapid-adjust lever, the length of pull is customizable for shooters of different statures. An integrated QD swivel attachment and a molded-in, rust-proof, standard sling swivel attachment are included. (208-442-8000; adaptivetactical.com)
ATI AR-15 TactLite
The TactLite six-position stock from ATI comes with a buffer tube assembly for a perfect fit on commercial- or mil-spec-sized AR-15 rifles. Weighing only 5.7 ounces, the TactLite stock is made of glass-reinforced polymer with a Scorpion recoil pad and a dual-sided QD attachment point. The TactLite stock has six locking positions. (atigunstocks.com; 800-925-2522)
BlackHawk Knoxx
The adjustable Knoxx replacement buttstock is constructed of impact-resistant, reinforced polymer and offers a precision fit with military-style tubes with 1.146-inch diameters. The Knoxx is designed for a comfortable cheekweld as well as quick and smooth length adjustments. Ambidextrous sling mounting locations are preinstalled with a 1-inch QD sling swivel. Available colors include black, desert tan and olive drab. (blackhawk.com; 800-379-1732)
Boyds’ AR Hardwood
Wood on an AR is possible thanks to Boyd’s AR-15/ M16 rifle stocks. Made of multi-colored, laminated hardwood, the stock not only looks distinct, but it is tough and functional, and comes with a rubber recoil pad and swivel stud installed. These laminate stocks work with A2-type buffer tubes. (boydsgunstocks.com; 605-996-5011)
Bravo Company BCMGUNFIGHTER
The BCMGUNFIGHTER stock offers a lightweight, snag-free design that easily installs on your AR-15 rifle or carbine. Made of rugged polymer, the stock features a rubber recoil pad and two different types of ambidextrous sling mounting options, including QD swivel sockets. The patented latch provides users with strength when dropped or when mortaring malfunction clearance drills. The buttstock is available in black, Flat Dark Earth, foliage green and wolf gray. (bravocompanyusa.com; 877-272-8626)
Command Arms CBS
The CBS is a six-position stock with an ambidextrous, watertight side compartment that stows four CR123 batteries. Made of durable polymer with a rubber recoil pad, the CBS fits all AR-15 platforms. Two metal, quick-release sling mounting points plus standard sling mounts provide quick sling attachment and release. Black, green and khaki finishes are available. Side Picatinny rails can be used to attach an adjustable cheekpiece (ACP) or magazine holder (MPS). (commandarms.com)
DPMS Pardus
Combining light weight with great handling characteristics, DPMS’ Pardus collapsible AR stock is constructed of fiber-reinforced Zytel polymer. Its buttplate is curved and has a saw-tooth texture, and a Monte Carlo-style cheekrest rounds out the package. Slings can be attached through four integrated slots. The length of pull can be adjusted via a latch with built-in finger grooves. (800-578-3767; dpmsinc.com)
Luth-AR Skullaton MBA-2
The minimalist “Skullaton” MBA-2 fixed stock fits both .223 and .308 AR-style rifles with A2 or A1 buttstocks. Installation is fast and simple. Made of super-strong glass-filled nylon, the MBA-2 has a sleek look, is ergonomic and weighs only 11.2 ounces. Its overall length is 10.37 inches. (luth-ar.com; 763-263-0166)
Magpul MOE SL
The MOE SL (Slim Line) stock is a drop-in replacement for AR-15/M4 carbines with mil-spec-sized receiver extension tubes. The sloping cheekweld combines with a slim profile for operator comfort. Dual side-release latches provide easy adjustment while contributing to the stock’s anti-snag exterior. Black, Flat Dark Earth, stealth gray and olive-drab green finishes are available. (magpul.com; 877-462-4785)
Safety Harbor KES
The KES (Kompact Entry Stock) system is a pull-out stock built to fit on all standard-spec AR-15/M16 lowers. The length of pull expands to 13.5 inches in seconds and allows for easy sling mounting on either the left or right side of the gun. When collapsed, the KES does not interfere with the operation of the weapon. The Kompact Entry Stock kit consists of the stock assembly, a buffer, carrier and spring. (safetyharborfirearms.com; 727-726-2500)
Tapco Intrafuse AR T6
The Intrafuse AR T6 is not just another mil-spec-style stock. This six-position stock is made of military-grade composite to conform easily to a shooter’s stature as well as allow for a more compact fit. The latch supports are reinforced, and the buttplate is thicker for a more solid firing platform. The stock is a complete kit that includes the stock, extension tube, buffer with spring, a locking plate, castle nut and sling swivel. (tapco.com; 800-554-1445)
Thordsen Customs FRS-15
The FRS-15 eliminates the pistol grip and adjustable stock on an AR-15 for part of some state and local compliance laws. The enhanced kit (shown) includes the FRS-15 stock, with a glass-filled nylon body and a rubber buttpad for recoil control and comfort, as well as a buffer tube cover for a more comfortable cheekweld. Also included in this kit are quick-detach sling sockets, an endplate and mounting hardware. (thordsencustoms.com; 650-588-3700)
