{"id":41154,"date":"2015-08-21T12:57:50","date_gmt":"2015-08-21T16:57:50","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/?p=41154"},"modified":"2015-08-21T12:57:50","modified_gmt":"2023-08-18T23:16:39","slug":"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\/","title":{"rendered":"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock"},"content":{"rendered":"<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-stock-1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-41172\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-stock-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"VLTOR IMOD\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-stock-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-stock-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-stock-1-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-stock-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a>\n<h2>THE SERIES<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Part 1:<\/strong> <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-15-step-by-step-series-introduction\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: The Series Introduction<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 2:<\/strong> <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-15-ar-calibers\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: AR Calibers<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 3:<\/strong> <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-direct-impingement-or-piston-operation\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: Direct Impingement or Piston Operation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 4:<\/strong> <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-15-tools-and-materials\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: Tools and Materials<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 5<\/strong>: <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-15-the-lowdown-on-lowers\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: The Lowdown on Lowers<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 6<\/strong>: <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar15-intro-to-uppers\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: Intro to Uppers<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 7<\/strong>: <a class=\"clickTracking\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-choosing-and-installing-the-barrel\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Build an AR-15: Barrels<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 8: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Build an AR-15: Choose The Right Buttstock\u00a0<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Part 9: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-optic\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Optic<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When it comes to choosing the right buttstock, we\u2019ve got good news and less good news. The good news is that there are hundreds from which to choose. The less good news is that figuring out which type will work on your rifle is just a little bit complicated. No worries, we\u2019ll start this article with a quick overview of the four (not including AR pistol) types of buttstocks and mounting systems.<\/p>\n<p>Actually, there\u2019s more good news. Not only are there may brands from which to choose, but there are also plenty of mission-specific designs. Want something really adjustable for setting up a precision AR? No sweat. How about one that looks as bad@ass as the rest of your custom built rifle? Piece of cake, there are plenty of innovative designs out there.<\/p>\n<p>Oh, the last piece of good news is that once you figure out which parts go with which other parts, installation is really easy.<\/p>\n<h2>But First\u2026<\/h2>\n<p>To mount the stock, you\u2019ll need to make sure you have the receiver extension (buffer) tube, buffer, recoil spring, receiver plate and locking ring installed. Read on to make sure that these parts, sometimes known as the mounting kit, are compatible with your butt stock of choice.<\/p>\n<h2>What Type of Stock?<\/h2>\n<p>There are four \u201cclasses\u201d of stocks for AR-type rifles, so you need to make sure that the stock mounting parts (receiver extension tube, recoil spring, and buffer) are compatible with the butt stock you want to use. The easiest way to ensure blissful coexistence between these parts is to choose your butt stock first, then order the appropriate mounting parts. If you already have the receiver extension (buffer) tube, etc., then you just need to order the correct variant of your butt stock. Many aftermarket stock vendors offer multiple \u201csizes\u201d of butt stocks for any given model.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s take a look at the four basic classifications of AR stock systems.<\/p>\n<h3>A1 Rifle<\/h3>\n<p>If you were in \u2018Nam or have watched movies about the \u2018Nam, you\u2019ll recognize the original fixed stock M16A1. It\u2019s that big, one-piece triangular one. The Army intended it to fit a wide variety of shooters firing from combat positions, meaning facing towards the target. In terms of this article, think of the A1 Rifle style as a \u201cfit\u201d rather than a specific stock. You can get aftermarket A1 rifle stocks in different shapes from companies like Magpul to fit the original size A1 rifle buffer tube.<\/p>\n<h3>A2 Rifle<\/h3>\n<p>Later, the A2 configuration came about. It had a longer length of pull that facilitated shooting from a bladed stance or prone positions. The combat stance mentioned for the A1 and bladed stance for the A2 are just guidelines. The basic difference is that they are different lengths for different sized shooters and\/or use from different positions. If you\u2019re using an A2 rifle stock, then you add an extension to the A1 buffer tube to make it work.<\/p>\n<h3>Mil-Spec Carbine<\/h3>\n<p>The mil-spec carbine tube is used to mount M4-style butt stocks. It differs from the commercial carbine buffer tube in that it has an outside diameter of 1.14 inches. When looking at parts from different manufacturers, you might see this diameter listed a bit differently, like 1.146 inches, but it\u2019s the same. As long as your stock and tube are listed as mil-spec with a size of 1.14-something you should be good to go.<\/p>\n<h3>Commercial Carbine<\/h3>\n<p>The commercial carbine buffer tube outside diameter (and butt stock interior diameter) measure 1.17 inches. That&#8217;s Because we have to make things difficult and have two different and incompatible sizes. Again, you might see another digit after the 1.17, but that\u2019s OK. Just make sure stock and mounting kit parts are both 1.17-something commercial versions.<\/p>\n<p>The simple takeaway from all this is that there are two lengths of buffer tubes relevant to stock selection: rifle and carbine. If you go with a carbine system, there are two diameters of buffer tubes and stocks: mil-spec and commercial. Make sense sorta?<\/p>\n<h2>What Do You Want To Do?<\/h2>\n<p>Now that you\u2019ve matched the \u201cphysical\u201d dimensions of mounting kit and stock, you can move on to more interesting (and fun) decisions. One of the great things about the AR-rifle platform is that there are billions (well, maybe thousands) of aftermarket parts from which to choose. The industry has gotten very creative with buttstocks and developed stocks that are optimized for all sorts of uses.<\/p>\n<p>What do I mean by uses? We\u2019re all probably familiar with the traditional collapsible M4-type stock. That allows the length of pull, and overall rifle length, to be instantly adjusted. You can change the \u201csize\u201d of the AR rifle to fit most any shooter. Also, the adjustable stock helps when we\u2019re wearing heavy clothes. You can shorten the stock a bit so the rifle still fits properly. When you lose the coat, move it back out. Last, but not least, LE and Military folks benefit from the collapsible stock when wearing thick body armor. The stock adjustment can account for that too.<\/p>\n<p>But there are other use scenarios that you may care about. Are you building an accuracy rifle for long range shooting? Maybe you want to go with a fixed stock, or perhaps an adjustable \u201csniper stock\u201d that allows you to customize the length of pull and comb height with precision. Maybe you want an exceptionally lightweight rifle. You can choose a minimalist stock that weighs next to nothing. If you\u2019re building a rifle for home defense use, you might consider a collapsible stock option so you can shorten it up for indoor use and open it back up when plinking at the range. The potential uses are nearly limitless, and the beauty of customizing your own rifle is that you can optimize things like the buttstock for the way you want to use it.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019ll humor me for a brief moment of randomness, you might want to decide whether you care about a rubber or polymer butt plate\/pad. While you\u2019ll sometimes see them called \u201crecoil\u201d pads, my reasons for liking them are far more mundane. You see, when you lean a rifle with a smooth plastic butt pad against a wall or something, it wants to slide around and fall down. That gets annoying! Oh yeah, a rubber or polymer pad will also stay in place on your shoulder due to the stickiness. Some people like that, while others don\u2019t. It\u2019s purely a personal preference issue, but something to consider when choosing a butt stock.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s take a look at some examples of various categories of butt stocks. The good news is that there are far too many great options out there to list, so I\u2019ve created a representative summary list below.<\/p>\n<h2>Fixed<\/h2>\n<p>If you\u2019re building a long range varminter, or maybe you just like the original configuration, you can mount a fixed stock. The receiver component is the same, all you\u2019re changing is the buffer tube and components, so knock yourself out. Here are a couple of examples.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/rifle-parts\/stock-parts\/buttstocks\/ar-15-m16-a2-rifle-buttstock-kit-prod24956.aspx?psize=96\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">The Original A1 \/ A2<\/a><\/p>\n<p>You can get fixed stocks in the original A1 and A2 style from a variety of manufacturers. Check Rock River Arms, DPMS and Cavalry Manufacturing just to name a few.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41163\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/DPMS-A2-stock-kit.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41163\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41163\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/DPMS-A2-stock-kit.jpg\" alt=\"One way to keep things simple is to buy a complete butt stock kit, like this DPMS A2 fixed butt stock.\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/DPMS-A2-stock-kit.jpg 500w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/DPMS-A2-stock-kit-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/DPMS-A2-stock-kit-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41163\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One way to keep things simple is to buy a complete butt stock kit, like this DPMS A2 fixed buttstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.magpul.com\/products\/moe%C2%AE-rifle-stock\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Magpul MOE<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Magpul offers versions of the MOE fixed stock for A1, A2 and Carbine configurations. It\u2019ll give you additional sling loop and quick attach options over the original along with a rubber buttpad and internal storage compartment.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41158\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-rifle.jpeg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41158\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41158\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-rifle.jpeg\" alt=\"Magpul MOE Rifle Stock\" width=\"700\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-rifle.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-rifle-150x129.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-rifle-350x300.jpeg 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41158\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Magpul MOE Rifle Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vltor.com\/shop\/stocks\/arm-rifle-stock\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">VLTOR ARM<\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you want to break the traditional rules of how a stock \u201cshould\u201d look, check out another fixed A1\/A2 drop-in replacement option. This one has plenty of sling options and waterproof battery storage compartments that serve double duty as an excellent cheek weld platform.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41159\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-ARM.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41159\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-large wp-image-41159\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-ARM-1024x679.jpg\" alt=\"VLTOR ARM\" width=\"1024\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-ARM-1024x679.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-ARM-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-ARM-400x265.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-ARM.jpg 1068w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41159\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">VLTOR ARM<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.magpul.com\/products\/prs%C2%AE-precision-adjustable-stock-%E2%80%93-ar15-m16\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Magpul PRS Precision Rifle \/ Sniper Stock<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This is a fixed stock, sort of. It&#8217;s the AR15 \/ AR10 version of those nifty adjustable eight ways from Sunday stocks you see on expensive bolt-action sniper rifles. There are two large inset dials that allow precise adjustment of length of pull and cheek weld. I used one of these during a long range shooting class, and it was amazing how often I adjusted the length of pull when switching between prone and supported positions. It also has a covered Picatinny rail segment on the bottom for attachment of a monopod. That&#8217;s the area of my only gripe. That cover constantly wants to slide off. If you don&#8217;t use a monopod, ditch the cover completely.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41167\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-PRS.jpeg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41167\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41167\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-PRS.jpeg\" alt=\"Magpul PRS Precision Rifle\/Sniper Stock\" width=\"700\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-PRS.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-PRS-150x129.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-PRS-350x300.jpeg 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41167\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Magpul PRS Precision Rifle\/Sniper Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/rifle-parts\/stock-parts\/buttstocks\/ar-15-frs-15-buttstock-kits-prod66718.aspx?psize=96\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Thordsen Customs AR-15 FRS-15\u00a0Butt Stock Kit<\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you live in a rights-challenged state, you may want to check out this invention. Technically, it eliminates that evil pistol grip that seems to upset so many for no good reason. State laws are changing, so be sure to check with your local situation to see if this is a viable option for you.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41169\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/l_100014780_3.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41169\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41169\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/l_100014780_3.jpg\" alt=\"Thordsen Customs Stock\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/l_100014780_3.jpg 500w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/l_100014780_3-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/l_100014780_3-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41169\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Thordsen Customs Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Adjustable<\/h2>\n<p>Hang on to your shorts, I counted 32 billion options in this category, so invest some shopping time before you buy. Here are a couple of examples of models I like.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vltor.com\/shop\/stocks\/imod-improved-modular-stock\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">VLTOR IMOD Improved Modular Stock<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Yes, VLTOR gets another entry on the list, as will Magpul in a second. Both of these companies make some excellent butt stock options. I love a couple of things about the IMOD. First, the waterproof battery compartments (right and left sides) make smooth and wide cheek weld areas. I also really like the rubberized butt pad with the angled toe. That helps it slide into position easily from the top, and the rubber keeps it in place. I have this one on my go-to AR rifle. Similar, but different is the EMOD stock. It looks different, and is a bit longer, but shares many of the same great features.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41160\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-IMOD.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41160\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-large wp-image-41160\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-IMOD-1024x679.jpg\" alt=\"VLTOR IMOD Improved Modular Stock\" width=\"1024\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-IMOD-1024x679.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-IMOD-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-IMOD-400x265.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/VLTOR-IMOD.jpg 1068w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41160\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">VLTOR IMOD Improved Modular Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/danieldefense.com\/furniture\/buttstocks\/daniel-defense-collapsible-buttstock-mil-spec.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Daniel Defense Collapsible Butt Stock<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Typically you think of the Daniel Defense folks as a full rifle provider. You can also buy components, like their cool new butt stock to apply to your own build. This one makes the list for its cool factor, but also the neat design of the butt pad. You can run without one for a shorter configuration, or add one of two butt\u00a0pads to adjust the length of pull and tweak the shouldering characteristics. It&#8217;s also got rubberized molding in the cheek weld areas.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41161\" style=\"width: 645px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Daniel-Defense-milspec.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41161\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41161\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Daniel-Defense-milspec.jpg\" alt=\"Daniel Defense Collapsible Butt Stock\" width=\"635\" height=\"205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Daniel-Defense-milspec.jpg 635w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Daniel-Defense-milspec-150x48.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Daniel-Defense-milspec-400x129.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 635px) 100vw, 635px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41161\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Daniel Defense Collapsible Butt Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.magpul.com\/products\/moe%C2%AE-carbine-stock\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Magpul MOE Carbine<\/a><\/p>\n<p>You can&#8217;t go wrong with a simple setup like this one. It&#8217;s basic, yet functional. Notice how the adjustment lever is set inside the butt stock frame. This helps prevent inadvertent movement while you&#8217;re out and about doing tactical things. It&#8217;s also got a rubber butt pad. The best part? You can pick one up for less than $40.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41165\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-Carbine-adjustable.jpeg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41165\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41165\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-Carbine-adjustable.jpeg\" alt=\"Magpul MOE Carbine Adjustable Butt Stock\" width=\"700\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-Carbine-adjustable.jpeg 700w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-Carbine-adjustable-150x129.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Magpul-MOE-Carbine-adjustable-350x300.jpeg 350w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41165\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Magpul MOE Carbine Adjustable Butt Stock<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/rifle-parts\/stock-parts\/buttstocks\/ar-15-m16-carbine-mil-spec-buttstock-kit-prod44659.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Brownells M4 Stock Assembly<\/a><\/p>\n<p>If you want to stay on a tight budget, check out this complete kit from Brownells. It&#8217;s not just a basic collapsible stock, but rather a complete kit that includes buffer tube, spring, buffer and mounting hardware. The whole package is about 50 bucks.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41168\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Brownells-M4-stock.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41168\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41168\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Brownells-M4-stock.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells M4 stock\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Brownells-M4-stock.jpg 500w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Brownells-M4-stock-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Brownells-M4-stock-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41168\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Brownells M4 stock<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>Minimalist<\/h2>\n<p>If you want to go really light, or are just one of those folks that uses an uncluttered glass desk, try the minimalist approach.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.battlearmsdevelopment.com\/sabertube-tm-bad-lbs-lightweight-stock-combo\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Battle Arms Development SaberTube BDM-LBS Lightweight Stock<\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41156\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/fx4_4026.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41156\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"wp-image-41156 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/fx4_4026-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"fx4_4026\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/fx4_4026-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/fx4_4026-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/fx4_4026-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/fx4_4026.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41156\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Battle Arms Development SaberTube<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/rifle-parts\/stock-parts\/buttstocks\/ar-15-m16-ace-arfx-skeleton-stock-prod16910.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">Double Star &#8211; AR-15\/M16 ACE ARFX Skeleton Stock<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Another one that I&#8217;ll put in the minimalist category is the ARFX from Double Star. As you can see, it&#8217;s about as simple as you can get for a butt stock. It&#8217;s so minimalist that it uses your existing A2 buffer tube as the top of the stock. There is a foam cover to make the cheek weld a bit softer. While hard to see, it even has three sling attachment points.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41157\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Double-Star.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41157\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41157\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Double-Star.jpg\" alt=\"Double Star ARFX\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Double-Star.jpg 500w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Double-Star-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Double-Star-300x300.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41157\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Double Star ARFX<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2>A Word on Pistols and the Sig Sauer Arm Brace<\/h2>\n<p>Remember at the beginning when we talked about the four types of buffer tubes and stock sizes? Well, if you\u2019re building a pistol, add to the list. A classic AR pistol also needs a buffer tube to make it work, and you\u2019ll find variances there too.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_41171\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Sig-Sauer-AR15-Pistol-Brace-1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41171\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\" class=\"size-large wp-image-41171\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Sig-Sauer-AR15-Pistol-Brace-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Sig Sauer's AR-15 Pistol Brace\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Sig-Sauer-AR15-Pistol-Brace-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Sig-Sauer-AR15-Pistol-Brace-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Sig-Sauer-AR15-Pistol-Brace-1-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Sig-Sauer-AR15-Pistol-Brace-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-41171\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sig Sauer&#8217;s AR-15 Pistol Brace<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If you&#8217;re building an AR-type pistol, you might consider the Sig Sauer AR-15 Arm Brace. If you go this route, and don&#8217;t plan to use it as intended, strapped to your firing hand forearm, then be careful and follow the latest ATF news. As of now, and this can change any day, the device is deemed legal when used as designed. The current ATF opinion is that when raised to the shoulder, this configuration magically becomes a Short Barrel Rifle, subject to NFA status and associated tax stamps.<\/p>\n<h2>Installation<\/h2>\n<p>Guess what? Installation is almost so easy we don\u2019t even need to cover it here. For most carbine stocks, it\u2019s a slip on type procedure. For many rifle-length stocks, you might need to place a screw to fix the stock to the buffer tube, but that\u2019s about it.<\/p>\n<p>Go forth and shop! <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/rifle-parts\/stock-parts\/buttstocks\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"build-an-ar-15-choosing-the-right-butt-stock\" title=\"Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock\">I suggest Brownells<\/a> as they have a great selection and fair prices. Better yet, their techs are always on standby to help you pick the right compatible parts for your build. Find something functional enough, and cool enough, for your personal rifle.<\/p>\n<p>Since GunsAmerica is such a helpful community, if you have had good success with a specific buttstock, let us know in the comments. There are simply far too many to cover in this article, and I&#8217;m sure other readers would like to hear your experiences.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Proof that the AR-15 can be almost anything you want is easy to see in the wide selection of available stocks. Fixed? Adjustable? Minimalist? The choice is up to you. We&#8217;re here with some tips that will help you narrow down the list, and we&#8217;ll lay out everything you need to know when you build an AR-15. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":41572,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[891,334,888,209],"tags":[724,132,102,620],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-41154","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-ga-guides-build-ar","8":"category-building-an-ar-15","9":"category-columns-ga-guides","10":"category-tom-mchale","11":"tag-build-an-ar","12":"tag-buzz","13":"tag-feature-articles","14":"tag-tactical"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Build an AR-15: Choosing the Right Butt Stock<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Installing a stock on an AR-15 isn&#039;t difficult. 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