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What Is an AR15 Buttstock?
A buttstock is the back portion of a rifle stock that braces against the shooter's shoulder. A quick search will yield many different styles of AR stocks varying in shape, size, features, colors, and more. After being flooded with so many results, how do you decide what the best AR15 stock for you will be? This guide will help you to determine what gun stock is compatible with your firearm and how to select the best one for your specific needs and applications.
Are All AR15 Stocks the Same?
In short, no. All AR15 stocks are not interchageable or universal. In order to select the right buttstock for your AR15, you must first understand what type of buffer tube you possess. Carbine-length buffer tubes, both Mil-spec and Commercial, require different types of AR15 stocks. The same goes for rifle-length buffer tubes. To better understand what specific type of buffer tube is on your rifle, read our guide on How to Select a Buffer Tube Assembly.
How Does Comb Height Affect the Buttstock?
Some AR stocks will come equipped with a method to adjust the comb height. The comb is the top portion of the stock where the shooter rests their cheek to obtain a proper sight picture. Adjusting the height of the comb determines how high or low the shooter's eye is and provides a more comfortable shooting position in certain scenarios.
Some buttstocks provide a set comb height position that is desired by most shooters. Whether or not comb height adjustment is a feature you are specifically looking for, it is nice to have the ability to choose the height that suits your style of shooting best.
How Long Should An AR15 Stock Be?
The length of pull refers to the distance between the middle of the trigger to the end of the rifle's buttstock. Why does this matter? Imagine having to fire a rifle with your arm totally locked out straight because the distance between the trigger and buttstock is so long that it won't allow any bend to your arm. A rifle with a full-sized fixed stock, such as an M16, has a set length of pull. It may work for most but not for everyone.
That's why adjustable AR15 stocks are important, as they allow you to adjust the length of pull on the rifle to a position that suits you the best. There are many adjustable buttstocks on the market today that typically allow for six or more different positions of adjustability.
Other AR15 Stock Accessories & Features to Consider
There are many other features to consider when deciding on an AR15 buttstock for your rifle. Besides being adjustable for six different positions, some buttstocks allow for even more length of pull adjustment by adding an adjustable buttpad. This feature allows you to extend your buttstock to its furthest position and then manually extend the buttpad to add that extra half-inch needed to your length of pull.
Some other features include sling mounting solutions, QD sockets, or cutouts that allow you to weave a sling through the buttstock. Monopod-ready buttstocks let you install a monopod to the buttstock to increase stability. Certain buttstocks come with or have the ability to install Picatinny/1913 rail segments allowing the shooter to install any desired accessory to the back of their rifle. There are also a lot of other various buttstock accessories to add on once you have everything else figured out.
AR Buttstock Selection Summary
The type of stock you choose can change the entire feel and experience of shooting your rifle. Once you have determined what style of buffer tube you have (Mil-spec / Commercial / A2 / A5), you can find compatible AR15 buttstocks that fit your specific rifle. Many colors, styles, and variants exist that can make choosing a buttstock feel overwhelming. Narrow down the specific features that appeal to you and your intended use of your rifle, and it will be easier to select the buttstock that suits your shooting style and body type.
Learn more in our AR15 Part Guides, and shop our full selection of AR15 Parts!
Don't forget, you can find plenty of ammo at OpticsPlanet, too!
