Top 3 AR Stocks of 2025 So Far

Synopsis 

The video compares several popular AR-15 stocks, highlighting their features, pros, and trade-offs. It covers the budget-friendly Magpul MOE, the upgraded Magpul CTR, the versatile B5 SOPMOD, and Caleb’s favorite, the Magpul SLS. Viewers learn about comfort, storage options, sling compatibility, and the importance of choosing the right buffer tube. The hosts conclude that upgrading to a quality stock significantly improves an AR-15’s comfort, stability, and overall performance.

What You Will Learn

Viewers will learn the key differences between several popular AR-15 stocks, including their comfort, storage options, sling attachments, and overall durability. The video also explains how choosing the right stock can improve stability, handling, and shooting performance.

Benefit to Watching 

The benefit of watching this video is gaining a clear breakdown of the most popular AR-15 stock options, helping viewers choose the right upgrade for their needs. It saves time by comparing features, pros, and trade-offs so shooters can make a more informed decision.

Magpul MOE Stock Overview

The Magpul MOE stock is the most affordable option in this list, yet it delivers a noticeable improvement over a standard M4 stock. It is lightweight, ergonomic, and built from durable Magpul polymer. This stock offers a rubber butt pad for comfort, sling slots for attachment, and a rugged design that holds up under regular use. The only limitation is the lack of integrated QD sling mounts, but many shooters are comfortable running slings through the existing slots.

Honorable Mention: Magpul CTR Stock

Although not officially in the top three for this video, the Magpul CTR stock remains a favorite for many shooters, including Steve. It provides an upgraded locking mechanism and improved stability over the MOE, making it a solid choice for those seeking enhanced control and fit.

B5 SOPMOD Stock Features

The B5 SOPMOD stock is a popular military-inspired design, known for its comfort and versatility. It includes a rubber butt pad, dual storage compartments for batteries or small items, and multiple sling attachment options, including QD mounts. The government version of this stock omits the QD points, so civilian buyers are encouraged to choose the standard version. The lever mechanism is similar to a mil-spec stock, making it familiar and easy to adjust.

Storage Options and Design Details

The storage compartments in the B5 SOPMOD can be used for practical items like spare batteries for optics, or even non-essential items. The design prioritizes a secure fit and durability, ensuring the stock stays in place during use. While the butt pad is not designed for recoil absorption, it offers excellent grip and stability, which is more important for 5.56 rifles.

Magpul SLS Stock Review

The Magpul SLS stock is Caleb’s personal favorite and offers a refined balance of comfort, storage, and durability. It features an aggressive-textured rubber butt pad, a well-angled cheek weld, and a low-profile storage compartment. The stock is slip-resistant, solid-fitting, and designed to minimize play once mounted. Its lever mechanism is tucked out of the way to prevent snags, and it is ambidextrous for easy operation from either side.

Comfort, Cheek Weld, and Stability

The SLS stock stands out for its optimal cheek weld and stability during shooting. The design has gone through several iterations, with improvements made over time to enhance comfort and performance. A built-in friction lock reduces any movement between the stock and the buffer tube, creating a more solid shooting platform.

Sling Mounting Options and Compatibility

All three stocks offer sling mounting options. Both QD points and traditional sling slots are available depending on the model, giving shooters flexibility in how they carry their rifle. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of sling setups.

Milspec vs Commercial Receiver Extensions

Most modern stocks are designed for mil-spec buffer tubes, which have become the standard in the AR-15 industry. While commercial buffer tubes were once more common, they are now rare. For owners of older rifles with commercial tubes, upgrading to a mil-spec tube opens up many more stock options.

Final Thoughts and Viewer Feedback

Steve and Caleb wrap up by encouraging viewers to share their favorite AR-15 stocks in the comments. Steve prefers the Magpul CTR, while Caleb favors the Magpul SLS. Both agree that a quality buttstock is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to an AR-15, enhancing comfort, handling, and overall shooting experience.

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