“Honestly, the beauty of the AR platform is its customizability. You can tailor your gun for one specific use case, then tear it down and rebuild it with new parts that tailor it for a new use case. Stocks are just one example. There are a million stocks to choose from, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all best AR-15 stock for everyone. Depending on what kind of shooter you are, you can find a stock that has all the features you want with none of the features you don’t.”
The stock is an integral part of any rifle. It directly impacts its stability, accuracy, and comfort when shooting. However, when it comes to AR-15s, there are so many different types of rifle stocks to choose from that it can be overwhelming.
That’s where we come in. In this guide, we will teach you how to choose the best AR-15 stock for you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Purpose of the Rifle
- Types of Buffer Tubes
- Types of AR Stocks
- Features That You Might Want
- Conclusion
PURPOSE OF THE RIFLE
Like any other AR-15 part, there isn't one type of stock that is ideal for every shooter. There are many different types of AR stocks available in every price range. To find out which one is the best AR-15 stock for your rifle, you need to consider the purpose of your rifle and what kind of parts will help you achieve that purpose more effectively and efficiently.
For instance, if you are using a rifle for long-range shooting, you'll want a full-size adjustable stock, with a cheek rest, butt pad, and perhaps a monopod as well. On the other hand, you'll probably want a light and simple stock if you want a fast and maneuverable rifle for CQB or competition shooting. If you are going to carry the rifle in a vehicle, a collapsible stock that doesn't add too much to the rifle's length is the best AR-15 stock for you. Some stocks even have angled butt pads, making them easier to shoulder when wearing body armor.
Therefore, to know what type of AR stock to look for, you need to understand the primary purpose of your rifle and choose accordingly.
TYPES OF BUFFER TUBES
Another important thing to know is what type of buffer tube your rifle has. If you are building an AR, you should make sure that you use the right buffer tube for your preferred stock. There are three common types of buffer tubes used with the best AR-15 stocks:
A2 STYLE BUFFER TUBE
A2 buffer tubes were used with the original A2 M16 rifles, which had fixed stocks. These buffer tubes are longer than modern MIL-SPEC and commercial AR-15 buffer tubes, resulting in a lower cyclic rate and better shock absorption and recoil mitigation. However, they’re 10 inches in overall length, protrude 9.5 inches behind the receiver, and have an external diameter of 1.115 inches. Types of AR stocks with A2 buffer tubes aren't the best AR-15 stocks for maneuverability, so they aren’t as common anymore.
MIL-SPEC CARBINE BUFFER TUBE
The MIL-SPEC carbine buffer tube is the most common kind of buffer tube used with AR-15s and M4s (the military version of the AR-15). The threads on the front of MIL-SPEC buffer tubes are larger than the tube itself, and after they are rolled, the rest of the tube is machined down to achieve a 7.25-inch-long one-piece design with an external diameter according to military specifications (1.148 inches). This is a more expensive manufacturing process as compared to commercial buffer tubes. However, this makes it more sturdy while retaining a small tube diameter. Some of the best AR-15 stocks from manufacturers like LWRC International, LMT, HK, Colt, Smith & Wesson, and Armalite use MIL-SPEC buffer tubes.
COMMERCIAL CARBINE BUFFER TUBE
Commercial buffer tubes are made from two separate pieces. The manufacturers start with a tube that matches the final tube diameter and cut the threads on one end. The end cap is welded onto the tube. This design means the tube needs to have a thicker material to achieve the required rigidity. Therefore, commercial carbine buffer tubes are thicker and have an outer diameter of 1.168". These tubes aren't as popular as MIL-SPEC buffer tubes, but some well-known brands that use them are Bushmaster, DPMS, and Rock River Arms.
TYPES OF AR STOCKS
After you figure out what kind of buffer tube you will use, you can choose the best AR-15 stock for your build. Generally, there are four main types of rifle stocks available for AR-15s on the market. You have fixed stocks, collapsible stocks, PDW stocks, and minimalist stocks. Here is a brief explanation of each kind:
FIXED STOCKS
As the name suggests, fixed stocks usually stay in place and have no wiggle or movement whatsoever. In some cases, higher-end fixed stocks offer limited adjustment, but most times, they have a solid build and no movement at all. For example, the first MIL-SPEC M16 rifles issued to US troops had fixed stocks. That’s why most fixed stocks on the market are designed to fit on A2 style buffer tubes, but you can find smaller fixed stocks for carbine buffer tubes as well.
These are the best AR-15 stocks for long-range precision shooting because they stay rigid when you shoot, keeping your shot steady. Moreover, they are very sturdy and durable. The tradeoff is that they can be long and heavy, and because this type of AR stock is designed to be immovable, they’re not as easy to replace.
The Magpul PRS Precision Adjustable Stock is an excellent example of a high-end fixed stock ideal for precision shooting. It is fixed to the receiver but comes with an adjustable butt pad and many other features. The drawback of feature-loaded stocks is their weight. They tend to be much heavier than a simple featureless fixed stock.
COLLAPSIBLE STOCKS
Collapsible stocks offer a much higher level of adjustability to the shooter. They are usually made to fit carbine buffer tubes and have multiple locking points so that you can set the length of pull according to your requirements.
This can make it the best AR-15 stock for several reasons. It makes a single rifle easier to use for multiple shooters. It also allows you to adjust the length of pull to accommodate other gear on your torso, such as body armor. Collapsible stocks are usually lightweight and offer a lot of adjustability while being more comfortable than minimalist stocks, PDW stocks, and pistol braces. This makes them one of the best AR-15 stocks for any rifle, but the perfect type of AR stock for run-and-gun competition shooters.
MINIMALIST STOCKS
As the name suggests, a minimalist stock is made to serve the bare-bones function of a stock. They aren't the most comfortable type of rifle stock out there, as they don't have cheek rests, rubber butt pads, or any extra amenities — but that’s by design.
These simple and very lightweight stocks have one purpose: to give the shooter a solid surface to shoulder the rifles. Most minimalist stocks aren't adjustable, and the buffer tube and stock are made as one part to keep your rifle lightweight.
If you are going for a super lightweight AR build, a minimalist stock is the best AR-15 stock. They are simple, affordable, and get the job done with no unnecessary bells and whistles.
PDW STOCKS
If you want a compact rifle or perhaps a very short and concealable SBR, you should opt for a PDW stock. This type of AR stock takes "compact" to a whole new level, featuring stock rods that collapse on the sides of the lower receiver. They’re the best AR-15 stock for CQC or transport.
These stocks usually come with very small buffer tubes and have their own buffers and springs. The shorter buffer tubes allow the stocks to collapse in a much smaller form. Even though PDW-style stocks offer a lot of benefits, they aren't ideal for completion or long-range rifles. But for a compact personal defense weapon? They’re perfect.
FEATURES THAT YOU MIGHT WANT
AR-15 stocks have many different features. Here are some that you should look for when choosing the best AR-15 stock for you.
SLING ATTACHMENT POINT
If you want to carry your rifle comfortably for a long time, it needs a sling. AR-15s don't have a sling attachment point on the receiver; it must be on the front handguard and the rear end of the rifle.
This is why most stocks have either QD sling attachment points or simple hoops for slings (or both). Either way, the best AR-15 stocks have at least one kind of sling attachment point.
FRICTION LOCK
Most high-end AR-15 collapsible stocks have a friction lock system, which allows them to be adjusted while limiting excessive movement. This minimizes wobble and offers a much more stable platform for shouldering your rifle. Moreover, it prevents the stock from collapsing when you don't deliberately want it to.
RUBBER BUTTPAD
Rubber butt pads are a staple feature of the best AR-15 stocks. When a rifle is fired, the recoil pushes the relief stock into your shoulder. It won't feel that bad for the first few shots, but if you’re out for a long shooting session, your shoulder can really start to hurt. And when you start flinching from the pain, your shots are going to be less accurate. Rubber butt pads provide a softer interface between your shoulder and the stock for a more comfortable shooting experience.
CHEEK WELD
If you are going to shoot your rifle for accuracy, having a stock that offers a good cheek weld is essential. This is why most types of rifle stocks designed for precision have a swollen cheek rest, which allows you to get multiple points of contact on the stock, with your shoulder and your cheek, for better stability, and sight acquisition.
STORAGE COMPARTMENT
Some types of AR stocks also have a storage compartment, which can store small items, like cleaning kits, extra batteries for your optics, and other essentials. These are the best AR-15 stocks for those who carry a lot of gear with them.
CONCLUSION
The stock is an essential part of any rifle and plays a major role in determining its shooting experience and effectiveness. Though it can be challenging to navigate all the options available in the market, we hope this post helps you choose the best AR-15 stock for you.
At Wing Tactical, curating high-quality options for every type of rifle stock is our specialty. But our inventory doesn’t stop there. Explore our collection of gun parts and accessories carefully chosen to meet our standards. And as a veteran-founded business, our standards are high. If you have any questions, contact us. We’re happy to help!