A basic carbine stock has a hard plastic butt plate with no recoil absorption. The ninth video in the Gun Websites AR15 Stocks series looks at the pads that can change that.
Slip-on rubber pads
- An inexpensive pad stretches over the end of a standard carbine stock with no tools.
- It adds a grippy surface that stays put against gear or a shirt for a consistent shoulder weld, and absorbs a little recoil. It adds some weight.
- They can come off. A zip tie secures one, placed on the side away from your cheek.
- They come in two sizes: a larger one for the common carbine stock and a smaller one for older, shorter stocks. Buy the right one.
- In a dry climate like Arizona’s, rubber can dry rot and fall off after a while. Check it regularly if you shoot often.
Gel recoil pads
- A gel pad such as a LimbSaver cost about $40 at the time.
- The soft material suits older shooters, anyone with a sore or injured shoulder, and larger-caliber ARs with more recoil.
Proprietary stocks
- Stocks with unique shapes, such as Magpul’s, need the maker’s own pads, which often come in several thicknesses.
- Some proprietary stocks have a built-in pad that no aftermarket pad will fit.
- If a rubber pad matters to you, confirm one is available before buying the stock.
More
- See the AR15 Stock page, AR-15 Rifle Stocks and How an AR-15 Carbine Stock Adjusts.
Based on a video from the Gun Websites YouTube channel. New to the AR-15? Start with Where To Start.