Pistol braces have had their legal troubles, but the dust has finally settled and it looks like they’re here to stay!
But which one should you rush out to buy first? We can help with that.
Let’s check out the best pistol braces for your AR-15 or AK, according to our own hands-on testing and experience.
THE QUICK LIST
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Best Overall
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Best Value
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Best Budget
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Best for PDWs
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Best Premium
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Best for AKs
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Best Picatinny Brace
Table of Contents
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Pistol Brace Comparison Chart
| Style | Mount | Adjustable | Folding | Price | |
| SB Tactical SBA5 | Brace | Buffer tube | Yes | No | $99 |
| SB Tactical SBA3 | Brace | Buffer tube | Yes | No | $69 |
| KAK Shockwave Blade | Stabilizer | Buffer tube | No | No | $43 |
| SB Tactical SBPDW | Brace | Buffer tube | Yes | No | $239 |
| Maxim Defense Gen:6 CQB Brace | Brace | Buffer tube | Yes | No | $319 |
| SB Tactical SOB47 | Brace | Receiver | No | No | $119 |
| SB Tactical FS 1913 | Brace | Picatinny rail | No | Yes | $160 |
| PSA Complete Lower | Braced lower | Installed | Yes | No | $199 |
How We Tested the Best Pistol Braces for AR-15s and AKs
For this article, we gathered a bunch of pistol braces we’ve personally used, reviewed, and owned here at Pew Pew Tactical. The entire Pew Pew Tactical team, as well as freelance writers, contributed to this review to offer different opinions based on ergonomics, size, and experience.
For this article, we picked a variety of braces to cover AR-15s, AKs, and personal defense weapons (PDWs). Since everyone has preferences, we included adjustable braces, folding braces, and blade-style stabilizers.
Best AR-15 Pistol Braces
1. SB Tactical SBA5 – Best Overall
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Pros
- The latest and greatest
- Very stable and supportive
- QD points
Cons
- A little bulky
Specs
- Style: Brace
- Mount: Buffer tube
- Adjustable: Yes
- Folding: No
SB Tactical is the biggest name in the game, and the company continues to improve with the latest and greatest AR-15 pistol brace, the SB Tactical SBA5.
Compared to its predecessors, the SBA5 is noticeably chunky. Part of that aesthetic comes from rubber padding that makes it more comfortable to shoot.
The wide profile also encourages proper cheek weld.
We love that SB Tactical gave the SBA5 ambidextrous QD mounting points for a sling, and the brace is adjustable.
Like most pistol braces, it mounts to the buffer tube of an AR-15.
While the SBA5 might be a little bulky for a backpack gun or lightweight build, it’s substantial enough to build confidence (and a stable shooting position) for longer shots.
Simply put, it’s the best all-around pistol brace out there — until they make an SBA6, I suppose.
2. SB Tactical SBA3 – Best Value
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Pros
- Sleeker look
- More adjustability
- Affordable
Cons
- Somewhat outdated
Specs
- Style: Brace
- Mount: Buffer tube
- Adjustable: Yes
- Folding: No
The SB Tactical SBA3 is a classic pistol brace. It may not be the newest release, but don’t sleep on it.
It’s designed specifically to maximize comfort and ergonomics for a good cheek weld, meaning you don’t have to worry about shooting unnaturally or slipping and jabbing yourself in the collarbone.
At the same time, it’s fairly minimalist. We think it looks great!
Lastly, you’re not stuck with the single length-of-pull of the old brace versions. This one is adjustable.
And now, since it’s getting up there in age, you can pick up an SBA3 for significantly less money than you’d pay for an SBA5.
What’s your take on the SBA3? Rate it below!
3. KAK Shockwave Blade – Best Budget
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Pros
- Basic but functional
- Slim
- Affordable
Cons
- Cheekweld doesn't feel great
Specs
- Style: Stabilizer
- Mount: Buffer tube
- Adjustable: No
- Folding: No
The KAK Shockwave Blade is a very basic and functional pistol stabilizer for your AR-15. It’s super affordable, but don’t call it cheap!
The Shockwave Blade accommodates buffer tubes up to 1.25 inches in diameter and is designed to help improve aim and support when firing your AR-15 pistol.
Installing this stabilizer is quick, easy, and only takes about a minute. All you need to do is slip it onto the buffer tube and tighten the screw in the center of the brace.
And if you’re someone who likes shooting with a sling, the stabilizer has three separate attachment slots for slings.
The Shockwave Blade is incredibly light (five ounces), making it perfect for the shooter who’s trying to build a lightweight pistol.
Cheek weld isn’t the best with this stabilizer but it’s not terrible. It wasn’t really designed for that in the first place, anyway. We think it’s comparable to a regular, old Magpul MOE.
4. SB Tactical SBPDW – Best for PDWs
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Pros
- Three positions of length
- Easy installation
- Decent value
Cons
- Cheek weld is iffy
Specs
- Style: Brace
- Mount: Buffer tube
- Adjustable: Yes
- Folding: No
If you want an ultra-compact pistol brace that looks like a million bucks, check out the SB Tactical SBPDW.
When fully extended, this adjustable brace creates a decent length of pull. In the shortest setting, it’s extremely compact.
You don’t need a castle nut for installation since everything is built in. Installation was no more difficult than switching out a buffer tube.
Even though it looks great, one thing you’ll want to think about is the cheek weld. There’s a lot going on here, and none of it is particularly comfortable for your face.
This is much more expensive than a lot of pistol braces, but I think it’s worth the money for a PDW build.
5. Maxim Defense Gen:6 CQB Brace – Best Premium
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Durable design
- Easy installation
- Comfortable to shoot with
Cons
- Pricey
Specs
- Style: Brace
- Mount: Buffer tube
- Adjustable: Yes
- Folding: No
Got cash to spend? The Maxim Defense Gen:6 CQB Brace is one of the most expensive pistol braces out on there. Pay attention when ordering, though, because Maxim Defense also offers a CQB Stock.
Understandably, a lot of people can’t justify spending upwards of $300 on a brace that could very well end up on a lower that costs less.
That said, The PDW pistol brace is — hands down — the Rolls Royce of pistol braces.
It starts as an SB Tactical SBPDW, then gets aluminum components to handle whatever in-the-field roughhousing you throw at it. a proprietary buffer tube and spring system with the JP Silent Capture Spring System
It’s fairly comfortable to shoot, too. The actual brace is made from soft, flexible rubber that’s gentler than some of the polymer braces you might have used.
But what really makes this brace stand out from the rest is its additional adjustability. A lever on the side of the brace allows you to move the brace to one of four positions.
Installing the PDW brace is as painless. Adding a sling is easy, too, because it has QD mounts on each side and a removable sling mount underneath.
6. SB Tactical SOB47 – Best for AKs
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Works great with AKs
- Solid mounting system
- Basic build
Cons
- Cheek weld is not the best
Specs
- Style: Brace
- Mount: Receiver
- Adjustable: No
- Folding: No
There aren’t many AK braces out there, and and the SB Tactical SOB47 is the best I’ve tried. It’s a no-frills but highly effective pistol brace.
It attaches between the pistol grip and the receiver, with a U-shaped prong that has worked surprisingly well for me. Like the AK, it’s a simple design that gets the job done.
Cheek weld is just ok — maybe a little narrower than the Magpul MOE. But the height is perfect for irons or a low-mount red dot.
7. SB Tactical FS1913 – Best Picatinny Brace
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Folds
- Easy Picatinny installation
- Super lightweight and compact
Cons
- A little expensive
Specs
- Style: Brace
- Mount: Picatinny rail
- Adjustable: No
- Folding: Yes
Got something with a Picatinny rail on the back? You’ll want to check out the SB Tactical FS1913.
This folding brace is perfect for PDW-style firearms that need to fit in backpacks or behind the seat of your car.
Installation could not be easier. It mounts up just like any Picatinny accessory.
This minimalist brace is all about being compact and lightweight, so don’t expect it to offer the best cheek weld or support, especially with rifle rounds.
But, for guns like 9mm PDWs or our .22 LR 10/22 Charger, it’s fantastic.
8. PSA AR15 MOE EPT SBA3 Lower – Best Complete Lower Receiver
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- In stock currently
- Adjustable brace
- Can build your own pistol
Cons
- Is a lower and not just the brace
Specs
- Style: Braced lower
- Mount: Installed
- Adjustable: Yes
- Folding: No
We know this article is focused on standalone braces, but some of you may want a complete lower that’s ready to rock, no assembly required. If that’s you, check out this Palmetto State Armory complete lower with an SBA3 already installed.
This lower is ready to pair with an upper to create a finished AR-15 pistol. It comes with a Magpul grip and trigger guard, as well as PSA’s enhanced polished trigger group.
The brace is an SB Tactical SBA3, and the whole package comes in under $200 (at time of writing). It will certainly do the trick if you’re looking to put together a pistol as easily and affordably as possible.
How to Pick the Best Pistol Brace: Are They Even Legal?
Braces and the law have been a hot topic of debate for the past few years. First, the ATF said they were fine, then they said they weren’t. Then they said they were fine again, and then changed their mind.
In 2022, the ATF created the Final Rule on pistol braces, classifying them under the National Firearms Act, which requires registration and a $200 tax stamp. This, of course, was met with outrage and lawsuits.
Luckily, in November 2023, a federal judge ruled in favor of the plaintiffs in one case and approved a nationwide injunction, meaning brace users can legally keep their braces for now while the lawsuit continues to meander through the court system.
In January 2025, Gun Owners of America published emails between a the ATF and a CZ Scorpion owner appeared to suggest that pistol braces were in the ATF’s crosshairs yet again. According to the NRA, the ATF quickly walked back that position, citing a nationwide injunction by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas.
If you’re interested in learning more, we have a whole article dedicated to the ins and outs of the ATF vs. pistol braces with updates on the case.
Meet the Experts
This builds on an original article from former Pew Pew Tactical contributor Brandon Harville.
Editing this article is Scott Murdock. Scott is a Marine Corps veteran who competed and qualified as a rifle and pistol expert while in service. In addition to shooting, Scott has written for a variety of publications, testing, researching, and evaluating guns and gear. He brings that knowledge and skillset to this article, editing and fact-checking for accuracy.
Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of reviewers. She is a National Rifle Association Basic Pistol Instructor as well as a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. With 2,000+ articles to her name, she uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.
Final Thoughts
That’s my list of AR-15 pistol braces for people looking to go cheap, find something mid-range, or spend the big bucks.
See something you like? Now is the time to finish that pistol build!
Which brace are you running? Let us know in the comments. Need more advice on building out your AR? Check out our AR-15 Ultimate Resource for all the best upgrades and articles!
Latest Updates
- April 2025: Removed the SB Tactical SBA4. Added the SB Tactical SBA5. Added a comparison chart and updated supporting content.
- November 2023: Updated the legal section, added a PSA lower with SBA3 brace.
58 Leave a Reply
Would love to see an updated version with the SBA5.
ATF proposed rule 2021R-08 could go live anytime. As I read the proposed regulation, owning a pistol brace would become somewhat like owning a full-auto sear. You'd better not get one unless you plan to register your pistol as an SBR. I'd like to see some discussion at Pew Pew about this regulatory change and whether existing braced pistols will be grandfathered. I don't think so. This is a scary issue and folks should be careful about buying these braces.
Your updated article unfortunately failed to mention anything about the ATF Proposed Rule 2021-12176 which, if adopted, would effectively re-classify virtually every current AR-15 pistol configuration into a “short barreled rifle”, requiring registration and a $200 tax stamp from the ATF. This rule was proposed in June of 2021 and its status is uncertain at this time.
What is a DROS? Does this mean that you can't take a standard multi cal marked AR-15 lower and make a pistol?
Thank you for this well written article, but it comes across as a SB Tactical promotion when the #1 brace, the Gearworks Tailhook, is left of the list. IMHO, SB Tactical has way too much flimsy rubber and velcro straps to be practical.
Personally I love the look of the Blade braces. But it's all a matter of opinion and preference for what you want. I have a little of everything becuse I like variety.
How in the heck is the tail hook not here lol. None of this brace are half as gd as the tail hook. Just saying
I wholeheartedly agree. It's not cheap, but is by far easier to use as a brace to shoot one handed than any shown here. Heather Works Facebook brace. Check it out
I think it would be better to create an updated guide that divides braces based on attachment method, and that goes into adapters a bit. Buffer tube braces sure are plentiful - but there are also a lot of 1913 pic rail braces, and Tailhook adapters exist for every stock under the sun.
The PDW is made mostly from a durable aluminum alloy designed to handle whatever in-the-field roughhousing you
through<<<<OOPSY! copy editor! wtf!
at it.
Yous guys/gals are awesome. Keepnup good work.
Thanks!
I'll fix that now also ;)
CNC Warrior makes a GREAT folding ak pistol brace. Don't think I could ever go with another ak brace after using it. Runs about $170 if i remember correctly, but got mine at about 150 on sale
Ditto on the CNC folder. Aluminum and steel construction, not a piece of plastic anywhere. Worth every penny and I would buy it again in a heartbeat. I added a hard foam fishing rod handle for cheek (and arm?) comfort. Made my M92 complete. All from a great and overlooked company.
It is funny, I was just thinking about this myself!!
He says right below it that that only applies to California.
Really liking the design of the SBPDW’. Especially the Maxim variant.... thinkin a .300 Blackout.
Love the sp3
Still no love for the Tailhook Mod 1 and Mod 2?
DROS... this is a California thing, correct? I don't know about Cali! But in the rest of America, a stripped lower will be transferred as an "other". You MUST build it as a pistol first... no stock when completed, if you intend to make it in a pistol form. A finished lower will be a pistol or a rifle when purchased. If a pistol you can convert it go a rifle (16" barrel or longer with a stock) but you CANNOT convert a rifle to a pistol (< 16" barrel) without going the Form 1 / SBR route.
No SBA4?
Exactly! The SBA4 was announced 5 months ago and has been widely available well before this review was published.
I used to think AR Pistols and AK Pistols were useless as well. Until a buddy of mine who belonged to 75th Ranger Regiment disagreed with me. He took me out to his land and ran me through some things. I was shocked at how usable an AR Pistol or AK Pistol was for close to medium range. It's on my list to build now. I'll build mine in .300 black.
I'm building an pistol with an ARAK 21 upper in 7.62x39 with a CMMG mutant lower and I want to put a folding stock (brace) on it, is that legal? And if so, how would I go about doing it?
Good Review! Of course after this article came out Strike industries has also come out with their pistol brace. I have their collapsible Viper Stock on an AR rifle. I love it! Hoping to get to try out their pistol stock somewhere before I finish my 300 BLK pistol build.
Is that Aimpoint on the bottom gun mounted backwards? lol
From the ATF site about shouldering pistol with brace.
Any person who intends to use a handgun stabilizing brace as a shoulder stock on a pistol (having a rifled barrel under 16 inches in length or a smooth bore firearm with a barrel under 18 inches in length) must first file an ATF Form 1 and pay the applicable tax because the resulting firearm will be subject to all provisions of the NFA. If you have any questions about the issues addressed in this letter, you may contact the Firearms and Ammunition Technology Division at fire_tech@atf.gov or by phone at (304) 616-4300. Max M. Kingery Acting Chief Firearms Technology Criminal Branch Firearms and Ammunition Technology Division.
I could not find it’s ok on the ATF site can you post a link saying it’s ok to shoulder a pistol with a brace without it being NFA.
The change in the ruling was issued in a letter from the ATF to SB Tactical and as far as I know does not appear on their website. However, here is a copy of that letter. The important part is at the start of page 3.
Key word: Acting chief of firearms (meaning he probably will be replaced) 2nd ATF does NOT make or right laws, period. And this topic has been beaten to death, bro its not a big deal if you occasionally "shoulder" it.
Good review, I'm suggesting that you at least make sure the optics are properly placed on the AR, the Aimpoint Pro is on backwards, if you want people to respect your knowledge you have to display proper set ups.
Lol yup, got some fun grief from IG already. Working on a reshoot!
Excellent article. I've shared this with all of my friends.
Still no Thordsen? A couple of posts like this and it's still left out... Anything with velcro to "go around my arm" moves to the bottom of my list. Thordsen achieves comfort without trying to look like a medical device.
Thordsen is a great stock, but it isn't a brace. Can't name it one of the best braces if it isn't a brace :D
Valid for pistol builds, which is the point right? Not many two armed people are using the brace function.
The Thordsen is a stock and would legally make any AR-15 it attached to a rifle, so it is not viable for a pistol build. Attaching one to a pistol length barrel would make it an unregistered SBR and that is very illegal.
Even if you don't use a brace as a brace, it is still legally a brace and can be used to make an AR or AK pistol.
Stocks and braces can't be used interchangeably due to their legal ramifications.
The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Technology Branch has affirmed that the Thordsen Customs Buffer Tube Cover/CAA Saddle combination is a CHEEK REST and IS NOT a "rifle stock. It DOES NOT reclassify an AR/AK type "Pistol" as a "short barreled rifle" under definitions established by the National Firearms Act of 1934 or the Gun Control Act of 1968. However, BATFE does specifically warn that any misuse of, or modification to, this configuration that may cause a firearm to be used outside of its design parameters, such as being shoulder fired, may change its classification and may make a firearm subject to NFA and GCA regulations and/or illegal to possess. Click on the links below to read the letters to and from ATF.
TLDR It's a brace.
Thordsen make a stock as well as the cheek rest/buffer tube cover. It’s Basically the same concept in a sense as the Phase 5 buffer tube, which allows the shooter to utilize the buffer tube as an aid with shooting.
I have a question so can you shoulder the maxim defense (stock or brace) whatever it is I'm sure stock but can you shoulder it with out a atf form 1?
I wish you could have evaluated the SB Tactical SBA3 Mil-Spec Pistol Stabilizing Collapsable Brace for AR. Easy to place, Comes with pistol buffer tube.
Article is updated...with the SBA3!
No love for the Tailhook brace?
Trying to get my hands on one, Connor!
Boy, I just wish Brandon were as much a fan of spelling and grammar as he is shooting sports. At least have someone read your article before posting it...
Feel free to let us know if there is something we missed. Our editorial staff goes through every article several times before it is posted but mistakes do happen.
I will tell you the reason the proofreading is not catching the mistakes. My wife teaches out of college and she told me the secret.
You cannot silently proofread, you have to read out loud if you want to catch the mistakes. I don't know why this works but it definitely works. Just read the article using your voice and then you will see the mistakes much better I promise.
"Brandon has spent the majority of his life hunting in the woods in Georgia and Alabama."
lol
I love my 7.5” AR pistol with Shockwave blade. It would look so cool with that Gucci Maxim brace. Rings torso sized steel at 500 yards. MOA, tumbling, keyholing? Who knows, who cares, it breathes fire! Short range only is complete myth.
BTW - Only built because ATF clarification allowed shouldering.
Happy pew pew!
Keep in mind that ATF opinions may be subject to change on a whim. It’s happened before with the back and forth over shouldering.
WOW!
$375 for the CQB brace. I spent less than that building my 300BLK pistol.. $360 including shipping for everything.
"Luckily, the ATF cleared up that misunderstanding when they released a statement regarding pistol braces. Long story short, you can shoulder your AR-15 pistol without any issues, so shoulder away!'
Can you provide a reference to support this statement. I enjoy the information from PewPew, and you guys seem to take care with the accuracy of your education, so I'd like to see a hyperlink in your article which supports this statement to arm your readers with, as there is a lot of conflicting information out there. Thanks! Keep up the good work.
Good point...attaching it into the article now! Here too.
I have the shockwave blade. I bought it to try and it fits well on the designated tube and doesn't move. I like the idea for more stability. In my state I can carry it in my truck in the back seat as needed without issues. It is handy to have a short barrel and not need to register a sbr. It gives the stability to shoot it more controllably.
What are your thoughts on the Gear Head Works Tailhook?
I'll have to try it soon...but great concept.
How do you omit the best example of the pistol brace ...the Sig Sauer MCX. With there unique "no gas tube" design you get the best of both worlds. You get a great short barrel pistol brace AR and you have the option to fold the brace off to the side for use or storage....daaah!
Unique? There is nothing new or unique about piston ARs.
Andrew, The MCX utilizes a unique internal recoil system that does not have a buffer tube so, yes, it's unique.