Looking for the best AR-15 stock to upgrade or finish a new build?
It’s an important decision.
One that will impact cheek weld, weight, your wallet, and most importantly…looks (duh).
I’ve built, bought, and shot a lot of AR-15s…from general builds to lightweight, pistol caliber carbine (PCC), and precision rigs.
If you want to know the best buttstock for your specific purpose…read on! I’ve laid out a bunch of different models I recommend to help you narrow down your search!
We also have a separate article for Pistol Braces, if that’s more your speed.
Summary of Our Top Picks
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Lightest StockIf you want the absolute lightest stock on this list, here you go.
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Best Precision StockPrecision shooting ready, fits on rifle and carbine-length buffer tubes
Table of Contents
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Best Adjustable AR-15 Stocks
1. Magpul MOE
This bad boy set a baseline from the mil-spec (military specification) buttstock, which did its job.
The Magpul MOE (Magpul Original Equipment) was on my first rifle…and as you’ll see coming up…I like to rattle-can my AR furniture.
The cheek weld on the MOE vs the Mil-Spec is roughly the same.
But it just looked so much cooler…plus it had a bunch more places to place a sling.
If your first rifle comes with one, too…you can’t go wrong.
But if you’re looking for my new favorite “standard”…keep on reading!
- Weight: 8 oz.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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2. Mission First Battlelink Minimalist
The Battlelink Minimalist is taking over with lightweight builds.
It probably gives up a little structural integrity by losing the triangle shape…but you lose a few precious ounces.
And if you find it snagging on equipment…you can bungee or paracord something together.
Cheek weld is an upgrade from the Magpul MOE, but nothing to write home about.
And how about a back shot? You get a little more traction on your shoulder, and I like that little curve in.
If you’re thinking of a lightweight build but don’t want to go ULTRA lightweight (and heavy on price)…this is the one to get.
- Weight: 5.8 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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3. B5 Systems Bravo
My go-to for a competitive/speed build where you still want to have a great cheek weld is B5 System’s Bravo.
It’s lightweight for the extra amount of space to get that perfect and repeatable cheek weld.
If you’re used to “regular” buttstocks, then switching over to one with a great surface like the Bravo stock will change your life.
Check out my bottom two rifles rocking the Bravo.
My first Bravo stock now lives in my accuracy testing lower.
The back is pretty normal and gives a good grip without snagging.
PLUS…it’s not too bad on the wallet at under $60.
My overall favorite for the best adjustable buttstock at a reasonable price.
- Weight: 9.6 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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What’s your take on the B5 Bravo? Give it a rating below.
4. B5 Systems Bravo-C Stock
B5 expanded its line of stocks after the Bravo, and one simplified version is the Bravo-C. This fixed-position buttstock still has a lot to offer.
Mounting into position with a set screw, the Bravo-C has a long length of very ergonomic top side that allows you to find optimal cheek weld without pulling your beard hairs.
The Bravo-C also features an anti-rotation QD mount and fixed sling points. It also has color-matched hardware, and that’s important because it comes in five colors to fit your build.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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- Weight: 10.25 oz
5. Magpul MOE-SL
Next up is another Magpul creation…the MOE-SL…or slimline.
It’s a definite upgrade from the MOE and close to the Bravo in terms of cheek weld for me. But still not better.
It matches up the Bravo in weight and price too. So if you want a better cheek weld than normal and love the look over the plainer Bravo…get the SL.
- Weight: 9.6 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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6. Magpul STR
The Magpul STR has my favorite cheek weld of all the adjustable stocks.
It comes in a little heavier at 12.5 ounces but the STR (storage type restricted) also has water-resistant battery tubes on the side.
Oh…and did I mention the cheek weld?
It’s huge…you could land a plane on that thing! And for your face…it makes it super comfy and repeatable for whatever optic you’ll be using.
It came on my PSA AR-10 .308 (full review) and it was great shooting a larger caliber.
Back has the same footprint as the regular MOE…but again, you can see that nice slope for storing batteries and giving you comfort.
My favorite cheek weld buttstock if you don’t mind the larger size, weight, and price. Also great for precision builds if you want something easily collapsible.
- Weight: 12.3 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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7. VLTOR IMOD
One of the first buttstocks to have an expanded cheek weld was the VLTOR IMOD.
I’ve shot this bad boy probably the most…and it shows. However, it’s stood the test of time and thousands of rounds.
Plus it has probably given me a lot of paint on my face.
It’s very comparable to the Magpul STR in terms of cheek weld (edge still to the STR)…and it has battery compartments as well.
And for about $20 more…you’ll shave off some ounces.
So if ounces = pounds…and pounds = pain…but you still want an awesome cheek weld…the IMOD is for you.
- Weight: 9.5 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Best Fixed & Lightweight AR-15 Stocks
8. Strike Industries Viper Fixed
I really wanted to like this one for my featureless builds.
(Want more builds? Check out the AR-15 Featureless Guide.)
Strike has been one of the most innovative and affordable companies out there…and I love their featureless grips.
But their Viper Fixed Stock is a miss for me.
Price was right, but the large screw inside messed up somehow, and I couldn’t install it for the life of me. Many forums and YouTube videos later…I gave up.
AND it’s taking a buffer tube down with it…
- Weight: 12.8
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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9. Magpul MOE Fixed
Magpul’s entry into the fixed stock world is the MOE Fixed Stock.
Not an original name…but very decent for the price.
Installs very easily and has the same cheek weld as a regular MOE.
If you want a fixed stock with no trouble, such as pinning or buying another gadget…the MOE fixed is the way to go.
- Weight: 9.5 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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10. Battle Arms Development LBS
Another entry into the ultralight arena is BAD’s LBS (Lightweight Butt Stock).
It’s crazy light at 3 ounces.
And gives you a smooth buffer tube as a cheek weld.
Be sure that you’re ok with the short length of pull on a regular buttstock…since now you’re stuck with your buffer tube length.
Tension has been great, and it should be able to handle a mortar since it’s directly against the buffer tube. However…I haven’t tried it and wouldn’t recommend doing it.
Great for an SBR with a more vertical-angled pistol grip which will help with the short buttstock.
- Weight: 3.0 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Best Precision AR Stocks
11. Luth AR
If you want something heavier and really adjustable for not just length of pull…but cheek rise too. Luth’s AR stock does so at a reasonable price.
Both the rear and cheek weld sections are able to be minutely adjusted and locked to suit your scoped rifle needs.
Here it is on my Aero M5 .308. (See the full review!)
Cheek Weld is better than the MOE but not approaching the others that have a slanted edge.
However, the name of the game is adjustability and rear weight. In that area, the Luth AR excels.
Plus…it’s more affordable than the current gold standard that is coming up.
- Weight: 19 oz for rifle-length version
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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12. Magpul PRS
The go-to for a precision AR stock…Magpul’s PRS Gen 3.
It definitely feels more quality than the Luth with its construction and easier adjustment knobs that have a satisfying click.
Cheek weld is also slightly better.
Plus, it can fit on both rifle and carbine-length buffer tubes.
I also like the flat bottom, so you can get a good sandbag base under there.
This is what you get when you’re serious about precision in the AR-10 and AR-15 platforms.
It has the weight and price tag to warrant it.
- Weight: 31 oz
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Final Thoughts
There you have it…a dozen of the most popular AR-15 buttstocks out there.
Hopefully, you’ve figured out which one is right for your purpose and budget.
To sum it up…
My favorite overall adjustable stock is the B5 Systems Bravo:
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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While the one with the best cheek weld is Magpul’s STR. It can also function as a precision stock if you’re looking for lighter weight and maneuverability at the cost of minute adjustments.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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And the no-frills fixed stock of the day is the Magpul MOE Fixed:
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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If you’re going ultralight and want adjustability…go with ELF’s Ultralight:
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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And for the gold standard in precision stocks…take a look at Magpul’s PRS:
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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How did we do? Any popular stocks that you want to see in a future article update? Want more AR-15 upgrades? Check out our AR-15 Ultimate Guide.
38 Leave a Reply
The Emod from Vltor should’ve been considered way before any of these other stocks. The B5 is awesome as well but the b5 doesn’t even compare to the bcm sopmod stock.
I have long enjoyed mocking the "above all, the "BRAND" fan boys" of the AR15 world. None so VOMIT INDUCING as the MAGPUL fan boys!!
Of particular interest, one of those ridiculous MAGPUL fan boys is none other than...ME!!!
I cannot help the snobbery, it simply is what it is!!
I liken myself as the Dr. Frasier Crane of AR15 / M4 platforms. One can only look back with FONDNESS and a smile on my face for the thrashing I and many other AR Snobbery Alumni gave to the POORS (LOL)
Adorning most of my AR platforms , one shall see All things MAGPUL stocks (LOL)
At the end of the day, Magpul furniture is a budget friendly (for the poors) solid POLY
FWIW, I think virtually anyone looking at the Magpul MOE carbine stock should buy the CTR instead. The MOE and CTR are nearly identical in weight and footprint, but the CTR rattles less on the buffer tube and features a QD sling attachment point. Those two features are well worth the extra ~$20.
I went with Bravo B5's on my main 5.56 and .300 AAC AR's, and the Magpul MOE Fixed on the 3 5.56 AR's I keep as spares/handouts.
Saving up to outfit my 6.5 Creedmore AR-10 with the Magpul PRS stock. At almost $200, and living on a fixed income, I generally have to save up for purchases >$75.
Must be getting paid to add al those to the list.. becasue you left the best stock off.. Rogers Superstock.. can't trust as reviewer who is getting paid by the products being reviewed..
We are not paid to include things in our lists. These are merely what our reviewer has tried and liked. If we didn’t include it, just means we haven’t tested it yet. Thanks for reading!
I've noticed a continuing trend over the years - MFT gets the rap of "snagging" yet plenty of others have all sorts of hooks and protrusions which can do that - yet no mention of it.
I've hunted with one on my 6.8SPC for deer in the fall and have more issues with the flash hider and front handguards with open holes catching brush. Why? Because the stock is under my arm or up on my shoulder - I've yet to find anyone promoting "Scythe carry" of a stock or seeing anyone buttstroking a blackberry bush. Inside a built up area? Again under the arm low carry or up near the shoulder. Most tac gear including open top mag carriers is a bigger issue.
For all that we trained with no slings on A1/A2's and the bottom sling swivel never caught on stuff either.
Would like to see a review of the Bilson Arms (Broussard, Louisiana) Pivotal Buttstock (Patent Pending).
What about the foldable stocks? Was hoping to see some info on the foldables.
I have the Rogers Super Stock. I am surprised it's not on here.
My choice too. the Rogers is great. Being able to take out any rattle and tighten up any play is great. QD a for sling is a bonus.
Thank you for validating my comment. If I build another AR it will have a Rogers Super Stock on it.
Ditto, it's a great stock I've put on a couple of builds. Lightweight, adjustable LOP, and the same kind of friction lock as the MOE STR (which they forgot to even mention when talking about the MOE STR) and plenty of sling options.
ALL of my ARs wear the Magpul MOE Fixed Carbine stock. It is also what I plan to install on my RIA VR82.
I am partial to the BCM Gunfighter Stock Mod 0 Sopmod. It is the tightest wobble free stock I have tried as far as collapsible stocks go and as good cheekweld.
Don't want to be complaining that there's no rep for my pick, but Im not seeing any love here for mine, even in the comments. I run the standard Daniel defense adjustable. Super tight lock up compared by my Magpul Moe with all kinds of cheekweld. And nice on the face in an weather. Gotta love it.
+1. I’m a fan of this stock as well
I'm an absolute shill for the A1 length and style. Gotta respect the classics.
IF I want a collapsible stock on a really lightweight AR Carbine, I use the XM177E/CAR type.
the magpul moe is the worst aftermarket stock on the market. It's super loose on the gun and doesn't provide a stable shooting platform. The Bravo sopmod B5 is probably the best though, glad that's on the list. The STR is good too, and the PRS is top of the line when it comes to 18-20" barrel AR's for distance.
What are your thoughts on the best of the adjustables for a tactical shotgun application?
Have you looked into the hogue products? I switched from the magpul grip and buttstock to the hogue fingergroove grip and soft polymer buttstock and I think that dir an adjustable buttstock it is one of the best, and the combo on optics planet is only around $64
On your PWS MK116 Mod 2-M accuracy testing lower with the B5. Are you running high ring height (like 1.9") for the large scope and still able to get a good cheek weld with the B5? I've got an athlon ares btr 4.5-27x50 coming and will probably have to run it high to clear the rails and am thinking I'll have to switch to the PRS stock for a raised cheek weld.
How can you leave out the bcm gunfighter stock . Easily the strongest adjustable stock out there. The lock up is so tight and with the metal hardware to protect the stock from collapsing when mortared .
Cheekweld, cheekweld, cheekweld.
Exactly why I went with a Magpul ACS-L. Better shooting position support without the added weight of the more precision or storage-oriented stocks. Not really 'lightweight' compared to a lot of minimalist choices on the market today, but at 12.5oz it certainly isn't the heaviest. A middle-ground compromise to improve shooting comfort.
Yup...it's all about that cheekweld!
Magpul SL-S, SL-K, CTR, UBR, ACS, (basically any Magpul); Vltor Emod; BCM; B5
ACE ARFX and ARFX-E for a really solid option, love that thing, really comfortable too.
I'm also really happy my LWRC Compact, it's like the B5 but less common, a little smaller. It rattled on my Aero extension, but electrical tape fixed that.
Not a bad write up or comparison, but there are some other LW adjustable stocks out there, I really like my Roger's/Colt Super Stock, it's like the Magpul MOE but with a locking cam for a tight fit up once you set your length of pull built in swivel points and it works on either commercial or mil spec receiver extensions.
For really lightweight fixed stocks, several companies make carbon fiber and aluminum hybrids namely: smoke composites, axelson tactical, and now incognito arms. Brigand arms reportedly has some in the works too. Yes they are not common (or inexpensive) like your other examples but they may warrant a future article.
Thanks J! I haven't tried the Roger's but great point on the super light carbon fiber ones coming out. I'll have to check those out soon and add them to this article!
I've been getting Rogers on Ebay for something like $30. That's pretty much a steal for a lightweight no-wobble stock.
Another great article thank you!
I am new to at-15 rifles... so my question is this - isn’t accuracy number 1? Can you get precision with a minimalist buttstock? And if not, why shouldn’t everyone (or why isn’t everyone) buying only “precision” buttstocks. What’s the big difference and pros and cons between the different types?
Thank you!!
Accuracy and precision are relative. If you're shooting at 50 yards, even a 10 MOA rifle (no rifle is that ridiculously inaccurate, btw) you'll still have a 5-inch group, five inches is good enough for almost all applications. However, if you're shooting at 1,000 yards - then 10 MOA would mean a 100-inch group...and that would be very bad for almost all applications.
Depending on what you're doing with your AR-15 will determine how accurate you really need it to be. If you're going for max range shots, then half a MOA here and there will matter a LOT - but if you're doing a plinking rifle, HD rifle, or even an SHTF rifle then having a 2-3 MOA AR-15 is more than accurate enough.
All of that said - yes, minimalist buttstocks are *normally* a little less conducive for accuracy. So are any kind of folding or collapsible stock. However, the loss in accuracy is normally very minor and won't really impact the rifle unless it is a very high precision build kind of gun.
Thanks David, couldn't have said it better myself!
I'd also throw in that "precision" stocks are much heavier which is great for bench/prone shooting and also focus on getting your cheekweld just right for your magnified optic. Regular stocks focus on weight and a decent cheekweld for regular use.
I like the ACS-L. Good lock up like the CTR, with better cheek-weld real estate. And a place to hold skittles.
I am mixed about the Minimalist. I had two. Both on SBRs. Sold one as I really don't like how it adjusts. Kept the other on a LW SBR build with Faxon pencil 10.5" bbl. I like the stock well enough, just don't like how it adjusts.
I have few B5s. I like them well enough, just like the ACS-L better.
Thanks! I really like the look of the ACS-L too but liked the cheekweld of the STR better for the same weight.