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A new stock is an important consideration when upgrading an AR-15 or creating a custom build. It’s an accessory that will help with aiming and keeping the rifle stable. The stock you choose can also affect felt recoil when you choose.
Here are some of the best AR-15 stocks and a few tips to help you choose the right buttstock for your build.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best AR-15 Stocks
- OUR TOP PICK: FAB Defense AR-15 Survival Buttstock
- RUNNER-UP: Magpul Industries STR Mil-Spec Carbine Stock
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: FAB Defense AR-15/M4 Stock With Adjustable Cheek Riser
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Stocks
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How to Measure Length of Pull
Length of pull is one of the most important measurements when choosing a stock, here's how you determine your LOP:
What is Length of Pull?
Length of Pull or LOP refers to the distance between the back of the stock and the center of the trigger. The standard LOP is 13.5,” but swapping the stock of your AR-15 is the perfect occasion to find a stock with a LOP that feels more comfortable.
How to Measure Your Optimal LOP
Stand up straight and let your arms down by your sides. Bend your elbow at a 90° angle in front of you and curl your finger as if you were squeezing a trigger.
Measure the distance between the inside of your elbow and the pad of your trigger finger. This measurement is your ideal LOP.
How to Choose an AR-15 Stock
Aftermarket parts give you the possibility to customize your AR-15. Here are some of the features to consider when choosing a new part for your rifle.
Compatibility
Check the buffer tube style of your AR-15 to select a stock that will fit. There are two main types of buffer tube styles:
Military specification buffer tubes have an outside diameter of 1.148” with rolled threads.
Commercial buffer tubes have a diameter of 1.168.”
FAB Defense AR-15/M4 Stock With Adjustable Cheek Riser
Fixed or Adjustable
An adjustable stock allows you to adjust the LOP. It makes the rifle more versatile, and you can also find collapsible stocks that help you save space when storing your rifle. Using a fixed stock has some advantages since shooting with the same LOP helps you be more consistent and accurate.
Weight
A stock is an accessory that can change the weight and balance of your rifle. You can choose a design with cutouts or a minimalistic design if you want a lightweight build.
Installation
Find out about the installation process before purchasing a stock. Most parts use a simple slip-on process that you can complete with a few simple tools.
Review of the Best AR-15 Stocks
Here are some of the best AR-15 stocks currently available on the market.
Best Overall:
FAB Defense AR-15 Survival Buttstock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This survival buttstock has received a lot of positive reviews. Buyers like the price point and quality of the part. Reviews mention that the stock feels great and helps create a sleek look. Buyers also report that the stock doesn’t fit commercial buffer tubes, even though some merchants claim it does.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like this rugged survival stock because it’s a sturdy and reliable part for your build. It uses fiberglass reinforced polymer composite to deliver a lightweight feel, but it’s a durable part.
It weighs a little over one pound, which helps balance your rifle without adding too much weight in the back. The width is 1.73,” and the stock is 7.09” long. It is 6.3” high. The dimensions and design are similar to standard M4 stocks. You can mount this stock on an AR-15 or M4 rifle.
There is a built-in mag carrier that fits a 10-round magazine. It’s a convenient feature that helps you keep ammunition handy.
The textured buttpad will help with accuracy when you shoulder your rifle. You can also use it to lean your rifle against a surface securely. The stock fits different buttpads if you want to replace this part.
Bottom Line
The quality of this stock is outstanding at this price point. We highly recommend this rugged stock because of its standard M4 design, built-in mag carrier feature, and sleek look. Keep in mind that it only fits mil-spec buffer tubes.
Runner-up:
Magpul Industries STR Mil-Spec Carbine Stock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This Magpul stock has received excellent reviews. Buyers love how comfortable the stock feels. It’s a quality product from Magpul, and buyers mention the sturdy feel of the polymer build. There are no issues with wobbling and rattling. Some reviews mention a slight drawback with the design that feels bulky.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Magpul is a manufacturer with a reputation for quality. You can expect outstanding craftsmanship with this stock.
The shape of this stock optimizes the size of the surface your cheek is in contact with when you aim. It’s a feature that makes the stock more comfortable.
There are two water-resistant storage tubes you can use to carry spare batteries for your scope. The stock features a built-in lock that prevents rattling, which can be a potential issue when you use aftermarket stocks.
Bottom Line
You can’t beat the quality of this stock at the price point Magpul offers. The design is somewhat bulkier than other stocks, but this part is an excellent option if you’re looking for a comfortable build.
Best for the Money:
FAB Defense AR-15/M4 Stock With Adjustable Cheek Riser
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love the quality of this sturdy stock and its design that is similar to the standard AR-15 stock. Reviews mention the check riser, a convenient feature if you use a scope. The only drawback mentioned in reviews is the fact that the stock gets in the way of the charging handle if you adjust it for a short LOP.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This FAB Defense stock is ideal for lightweight builds. It weighs less than 0.6 lbs while delivering a sturdy feel.
We like the non-slip rubber buttpad. It features large lugs to provide optimal traction when you shoulder the rifle. It makes it easier to keep the firearm steady.
The cheek riser is a noteworthy feature. You can adjust it to get a comfortable surface to rest your cheek when you aim. This feature is a great addition to any build that uses a scope.
This stock is a versatile option that fits commercial and mil-spec tubes. There is a built-in storage compartment that you can access by opening the buttpad. You can use it to carry batteries for your scope or other small items.
Bottom Line
This reliable stock is a must-have part for any AR-15 build that uses a scope. The cheek riser feature will make aiming more comfortable, and you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues with this versatile stock.
Best AR-15 Thumbhole Stock:
Vism AR Blastar Thumbhole
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This thumbhole stock has received positive reviews. A reviewer mentions issues with the fit, but a majority of buyers didn’t encounter this issue. Reviews mention the sturdy build of the stock and the comfortable feel of the thumbhole design.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Thumbhole stocks feature a cutout that reduces pressure and discomfort on your wrist when you shoot. This type of stock allows your wrist to sit in a more natural position when holding your AR-15.
The AR-15 isn’t uncomfortable compared to other rifles, but customizing your build with a thumbhole stock can help if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis. It’s also a great choice if you’re more familiar with firearms that use a thumbhole stock.
This stock is 11.5” long. It will fit any mil-spec tube. It uses a polymer and aluminum build for durability. These lightweight materials will help reduce the weight of your build.
There are a built-in storage compartment and a comfortable rubber buttpad. You will find points you can use to attach AQ cups for a sling, and the stock comes with all the tools and hardware you will need to install it.
Bottom Line
If you want the comfort of a thumbhole stock, this affordable and durable stock is an excellent addition to your AR-15 build. We like the choice of sturdy materials, the lightweight design, and the comfort of the rubber buttpad.
Best AR-15 Collapsible Stock:
Hogue AR-15/M16 OverMold Collapsible Buttstock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This collapsible stock has received overwhelmingly positive reviews. People love the fit, feel, and look of this part. It’s easy to install and use, and reviewers love the lightweight skeleton design. Reviews also mention the interesting selection of colors.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Fixed stocks can make firearms cumbersome to transport or store. This collapsible stock is perfect if you have limited storage space or transport your rifle regularly. All you have to do is fold the stock to reduce the length of your AR-15.
Wobbling and rattling are common concerns with collapsible stocks. Many gun owners prefer fixed stocks for this reason. However, the design of this collapsible stock prevents wobbling and rattling for a sturdy result.
This stock uses polymer, a lightweight, and very durable material. The large cutouts and skeleton design help reduce the weight of your build.
The polymer cap with molded rubber feels comfortable and allows you to shoulder your AR-15 for optimal stability and accuracy.
There are seven colors available, with some truly original options like pink. The manufacturer offers matching forends if you want to add a splash of color to your build.
Bottom Line
You can’t go wrong with this comfortable collapsible stock. The molded rubber adds comfort when you shoulder the gun, the original color selection opens up more possibilities for your custom build, and you won’t have to worry about any rattling with this sturdy collapsible stock.
Best AR-15 Pistol Stock:
ODIN Works Zulu Adjustable Stock w/ Padded Pistol Buffer Tube
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love being able to customize their AR-15 build with this pistol buffer tube. It’s easy to install, and it’s possible to mix and match parts for a unique result. The buttpad of the stock feels comfortable, and buyers say that it’s very easy to adjust the stock.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Odin offers a pistol buffer tube kit with an adjustable stock you can attach to it. The downside of pistol stocks is that this type of build can make it difficult to shoulder and stabilize your AR-15. The addition of an adjustable stock with plenty of padding solves this issue.
This kit includes a stock with a comfortable buttpad you can use to shoulder your AR-15. The installation process is very simple. This kit is a great way to upgrade your build with some lightweight parts, and you can customize the result by replacing parts like the buffer spring.
This stock stands out because of the quality of the craftsmanship, especially at this price point. There are three colors to choose from, including black, blue, and orange. These colors can be fun for a novelty build.
Bottom Line
This kit is an ideal choice if you want a lightweight pistol stock with a comfortable buttpad. We like how versatile this kit is, and you can mix and match parts to customize the tube and stock of your AR-15.
Best AR-15 Minimalist Stock:
Mission First Tactical AR-15 Battlelink Minimalist Stock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers like this lightweight stock because it’s an excellent value. They like how comfortable it feels and many reviews mention the low-profile of the stock. It’s easy to install and collapse. The main drawback that buyers mention is the L-shape of the stock. It creates a hook that increases the risks of snagging your firearm on something.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like the modern and minimalist design of this stock. It’s ideal for a lightweight build because it’s a great mix of value and comfort. Keep in mind that this stock only fits mil-spec buffer tubes.
The stock comes with a roll pin so you can fix the stock safely. There is a non-slip buttpad for comfort and a large cheek weld surface.
There are several sling slots. It’s a versatile stock that gives you the possibility to customize how you want to attach the sling.
Bottom Line
The L-shape of this minimalist stock could be an issue if you plan on using your AR-15 in an area with bushes or trees. It’s still a great minimalist stock for a lightweight and comfortable build.
Best AR-15 Adjustable Stock:
OpticsPlanet Exclusive Adaptive Tactical EX Performance Adjustable M4-Style Stock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love the rugged look of this adjustable stock. Reviews often mention the affordable price point of the stock and quality of the build. People say the recoil pad does a great job of reducing felt recoil.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This adjustable stock features a built-in lever that you can use to adjust the LOP. This feature is interesting if you have an AR-15 that different people use or if you want to adjust your LOP for different shooting positions.
It’s a durable and lightweight polymer stock that would be a great addition to any AR-15 build. The polymer construction makes the stock rugged and durable in a wide range of conditions. It’s a well-balanced part.
The stock is also easy to install and remove. It features a thick vented recoil pad that reduces felt recoil and enhances comfort when you shoulder your firearm.
Bottom Line
Being able to adjust your LOP with a lever is a convenient feature. We recommend this affordable stock because it’s sturdy, affordable, and the vented shoulder pad will make your build more comfortable.
Best AR-15 PDW Stock:
Strike Industries PDW Stock
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
There are many positive reviews for this PDW stock. Buyers think it’s a great option for upgrading an AR platform. They like that the buffer tube works with standard bolt carriers. Reviews often mention the quality and comfortable feel of the stock.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You won’t find a better value if you want to transfer an AR platform and add a PDW stock. This kit comes with stock, buffer assembly, buffer tube, buffer spring, and more. You will get everything you need to transform your firearm. The installation process is easy.
The design of the stock will make your build more comfortable. There is a wide cheek rest that will come in handy when you aim, and the ergonomic shape of the stock adds comfort.
There is a convenient push-button feature you can use to extend the stock when needed.
Bottom Line
This kit is a must-have if you want to upgrade your AR-15 with a PWD stock. The stock is sturdy and comfortable, and the kit comes with everything you need for a quick and easy installation process.
Best AR-15 Wood Stock:
Windham Weaponry VEX Wood Stock .223 Rem Semi-Automatic AR-15 Rifle
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Winham Weaponry has an excellent reputation among gun owners. It’s a popular manufacturer for AR-15 rifles. Reviewers often mention the original look and retro inspiration of the different builds offered.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you’re looking for an AR-15 with a unique look, this build is worth considering. It features a laminated nutmeg wood stock and matching forend that gives the AR-15 a retro and polished look.
Windham Weaponry offers this wood stock as part of a complete build. It’s a semi-automatic AR-15 with a gas impingement system. The build includes a rubber pistol grip for comfort and accuracy and a Picatinny rail platform so you can add accessories. The aluminum receiver and trigger make the AR-15 sturdy and reliable.
There are some advantages to purchasing a unique build like this AR-15. You won’t have to shop around for the different parts you need and won’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
Bottom Line
If you’re on the market for a unique AR-15 build, this gorgeous wood-stocked build is worth a look. Windham Weaponry is a manufacturer that offers unique builds with retro designs, and this AR-15 is no exception.
Types of Rifle Stocks
There are different types of stocks to consider when upgrading your AR-15.
Fixed Stock
A fixed stock is ideal if you want a rigid build. These stocks help with accuracy since you will work with the same LOP every time you shoot. A fixed stock is ideal if you don’t transport your firearm regularly.
Adjustable Stock
An adjustable stock allows you to change the LOP of your AR-15. You can use the shortest LOP when transporting or storing your rifle.
An adjustable stock is a convenient option if more than one person will use the rifle or if you don’t fit the standard LOP.
Collapsible
A collapsible stock is a convenient option if you visit the range regularly. Being able to fold your stock helps save space when storing and transporting your AR-15.
Comparison Overview
Comparing these popular stock options will help you find the right fit for your build.
Hogue AR Stock vs Magpul
Hogue and Magpul are two popular manufacturers of AR-15 parts. Hogue offers collapsible and fixed stocks for AR-15s. You will find lightweight designs with large cutouts. This manufacturer offers options for commercial and mil-spec builds. The fixed stock line features some original colors.
Magpul offers a collapsible AR-15 stock as well as a few adjustable models. There is a wide selection of carbine stocks with features like built-in storage.
If you’re on the market for a fixed stock, Hogue will have more options to choose from. If you’re looking for an adjustable stock or want storage, Magpul is your best bet.
Wood vs Composite Rifle Stock
Outfitting your AR-15 with a wood stock will give your rifle a unique retro look. Many gun owners prefer the look and steel of wood parts.
However, a composite rifle stock will require less maintenance. Synthetic materials are more resistant to moisture, and it’s easier to find lightweight options when shopping for synthetic stocks.
A wood stock is an option that makes sense if you want an AR-15 build you can display or prefer the look and feel of wood. Keep in mind that choosing wood parts can result in a heavier build. If you’re upgrading your rifle on a budget or want something more practical, a composite stock is a way to go.
A1 vs A2 Stock
AR-15 rifles originally came with an A1 stock. The A2 stock became the new standard in the 1980s.
The A1 stock features a smooth finish and a triangular design with no cutout. It’s a great option if you’re going for a retro look.
The A2 stock looks very similar, but it’s slightly longer. There is a 5/8” difference between the two stocks. The buttpad has a textured surface.
An A2 stock would make sense for long-range target shooting, but the shorter A1 stock would make your build more comfortable if you have short arms.
FAB Defense AR-15 Survival Buttstock
How to Remove an AR-15 Stock
Swapping the stock of your AR-15 is a simple process. The steps to follow depend on the type of stock that is currently on your rifle.
How to Remove an AR-15 Stock Without Tools
You can remove most stocks without any tools. Here are the steps to follow:
- Make sure you’re working with an unloaded firearm.
- Push the stock all the way back if it’s an adjustable one.
- Pull the adjustment lever down.
- You should be able to slide the stock off the buffer tube.
- You can then install the new stock.
How to Remove an AR-15 Stock With Tools
If you have a fixed stock, you will probably need to remove the screw that secures the stock. Here are the steps to follow:
- Remove the buttpad to access the screw that secures the stock.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen this screw.
- You should be able to pull the stock back to slide it off the buffer tube.
Conclusion
A new stock can change the look and feel of your AR-15 build. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable option, we recommend the FAB Defense AR-15 Survival Buttstock. It’s a composite stock that delivers a lightweight and comfortable feel, and the built-in mag storage is an interesting feature.
People Also Ask
Here are a few additional things you should know about AR-15 stocks.
What is a Bump Stock AR-15?
A bump stock uses the energy of your firearm’s recoil to create a bumping movement between your shoulder and trigger finger. This effect increases the rate of fire, even though the rifle remains a semi-automatic weapon.
How Does AR-15 Bump Stock Work?
A bump stock harnesses recoil energy to get your weapon to bounce off your shoulder in a rapid movement. If you hold your trigger finger in place, the weapon will fire again at a fast rate. This type of stock allows you to achieve a rate of fire that is comparable to a fully automatic firearm.