AR-15 RETRO BUTTSTOCKS Reviews & Ratings

Last year I built a dissipater clone, but with an A2 stock, and it looked and felt off, this was the perfect size. I’ve read some reviews about rattles, I’ve had none, and this is very solid. I might still fill the inside with “Foam-it”, but it’s not necessary.

This A1 stock was the perfect length for a clear and sharp sight picture on my Colt 4X Brownells replica carry handle scope. The length of my original A2 stock was just an inch or so too long for a comfortable length of pull using the scope. Thanks Brownells for a great fit replacement stock.

Paired with Brownell's triangle handguard and 3 prong flash hider I was able to make a convincing looking Colt 605 clone. Everything is pretty basic and fit onto my rifle length buffer without issue. I'm 6' and I feel as if the A1 length of pull is more comfortable than the longer A2 stock I had on it originally.

This is a great stock at a great price! It's not perfect but it is very nice all the same. I had been looking for an A1 for a while but couldn't find a decent one for a decent price. Then I came upon Brownells retro pieces. I read some reviews, both + /- and decided to take a chance. Mine came with some minor scuffs and bright spots from shipping handling, I suppose, because it is package well. These dissappeared with a little 3M Scotch Bright love. Also found that the reinforcement insert rattled a bit even after tightening the stock screw, as some other reviewers noted. No problem... I solved that with a few layers of electrical tape applied to the top of the insert where it contacts the receiver extension (buffer tube). All good with no rattle. As a side note... a shorter screw IS included. The stock is just what I needed as the A1 fits me better than the A2 As previously stated... a great stock at a great price. Thanks Brownells!

I was building an XM16E1 and this part is what I needed to complete it.

I liked the stock in comparison to an original, co complaints

I got my M16A1 buttstock today put it on n took out it out n fired it , felt just like my m16a1 rifle back in my Army days no rattles n did not need a spacer fet perfect on my M16A4 lower . Very satisfied.

FINALLY.

I believe this is a "type D" buttstock. While it looks identical to the originals, it is obviously stronger. As for colors... the black is the correct and exact matt finish. It will however become somewhat "glossy" over time with extreme handling, just like the originals. If you need to restore it, or handguards / pistol grip to factory fresh look, Duplicolor brand, High Heat Engine Enamel in "Low Gloss Black" is an EXACT match. For "distressing" or a well used look, randomly polish with a mild grit rubbing / polishing compound, or toothpaste on a rag. Don't laugh, that actually works quite well. The green is the perfect shade, texture / degree of gloss... which is between flat and semi-gloss. For touch-up / refinish I suggest Rustolium brand, Camouflage 2X Ultra Cover in Deep Forest Green. This color isn't exact but (95%) close enough to match handguards / pistol grips with an unpainted buttstock on the same rifle. The brown is completely wrong for an original A1. The brown is correct for modern weapons. As for the original color, I've used Rustolium brand Red Oxide Primer, then "distressed" it by blotting with a rag soaked in common mineral spirits. Believe it or not, that's pretty close to how they looked when leaving the factory. Once again, buffing may also be needed for a "used" look if that is your goal. The "reddish-brown" wasn't a popular color & didn't last long before being upgraded to O.D. Green, mostly used on the 600 Series USAF rifles so it's extremely rare today. Overall, regardless of your color selection, these are the highest quality I've found. You won't be disappointed.

I was very pleasantly surprised by the quality and sturdiness of this unit!