Your stock is the foundation of a consistent shooting position. It determines your length of pull, cheek weld and how naturally the rifle shoulders — so choosing the right one matters more than almost any other furniture upgrade. Here's how to pick the right AR-15 stock for your platform and shooting style.
1. Mil-Spec vs commercial buffer tubes
Before anything else, identify your receiver extension (buffer tube). AR-15 carbine tubes come in two diameters: Mil-Spec (1.148") and commercial (1.168"). Most quality stocks are built for Mil-Spec tubes, which are the industry standard. Check your tube before ordering — a Mil-Spec stock won't sit snugly on a commercial tube, or vice versa.
2. Carbine vs precision stocks
Collapsible carbine stocks like the Magpul CTR or B5 Systems Bravo are lightweight, adjustable for length and ideal for general-purpose, defensive and range use. Precision stocks such as the Magpul PRS GEN3 or B5 Collapsible Precision Stock add tool-adjustable cheek height and length of pull for a perfect, repeatable position behind a magnified optic — the choice for accuracy-focused builds.
3. Length of pull & cheek weld
Length of pull is the distance from the trigger to the back of the stock. A collapsible stock lets you tune this for your body, kit and position — shorter when wearing a plate carrier, longer for a relaxed offhand stance. A consistent cheek weld, where your cheek meets the stock, is what keeps your eye aligned with your optic shot after shot, so choose a comb height that suits your sighting system.
4. Storage, sling mounts & weight
Modern stocks add useful features: enclosed storage compartments for batteries and spares (Magpul STR, ACS, B5 Enhanced SOPMOD), ambidextrous QD sling sockets, and rubber buttpads for a no-slip shoulder hold. Building a lightweight carbine? Minimalist stocks shave ounces. Want durability and onboard storage? A fuller stock is worth the small weight penalty.
Our recommendations
- Best all-rounder: Magpul CTR — proven, lightweight, wobble-free.
- Best value: Magpul MOE or B5 Systems Bravo.
- Best for precision: Magpul PRS GEN3 or B5 Collapsible Precision Stock.
- Best with storage: Magpul STR or B5 Enhanced SOPMOD.
Browse the full range in our Rifle & Shotgun Stocks and Precision Rifle Stocks collections. Still unsure? Our team is happy to help you match a stock to your platform.