- Alfred Mendoza
- May 13, 2021
- Reviewed by James Gangler
- July 6, 2022
Just imagine turning your rifle into something compact, accessible, and portable. If you are a hunter who is always on the go, turning some weapons into something more usable is an ideal choice. However, with the upsurge of the best folding stock on the market, it might be challenging to choose just one. Therefore, our team of experts made this list to help you select your rifle’s best companion.
- Auxiliary friction lock decreases wobbling
- Chrome-silicon lock spring
- Snug fit
- Well-balanced and durable
- Allows fast length-of-pull adjustments
- Synthetic rubber butt pad increases comfort
- Impact- and heat-resistant
- Wide comb contour
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Has streamlined exterior
OUR #3 RATED
Brownells-AR-15 Enhanced Sopmod Stock Collapsible W/ Folding Stock Adapter
- Won’t pull out any beard hairs
- Forged from a hard-wearing polymer
- Comfortable butt pad
- SOPMOD approved
- Has slightly longer cheekweld
Top 8 Folding Stocks for AR 15
1. Magpul - AR-15 CTR Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec
Magpul – AR-15 CTR Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec is one of the best folding stocks for AR-15 that features a friction locking mechanism. This particular feature eliminates the movement between the buttstock and buffer tube for a more solid “feel” when the weapon is mounted on the shoulder.
This folding stock also features a heavy-duty and spring-loaded hand lever that allows fast length-of-pull adjustments. Its body is constructed with a Nylon polymer body, providing heat resistance and maximum impact. It also comes with molded-in reinforcements at stress points.
This Magpul folding stock also accepts various ambidextrous sling-type attachment options, push-button sling mounts, web slings, and single-point. It features a solid cheekweld because of its way wider comb contour. It also comes with a synthetic rubber butt pad, so it features increased comfort and prevents slippage.
PROS
- Auxiliary friction lock decreases wobbling
- Chrome-silicon lock spring
- Snug fit
- Well-balanced and durable
- Allows fast length-of-pull adjustments
CONS
- Installation needs assistance
2. Magpul - AR-15 MOE Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec
Magpul – AR-15 MOE Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec is an economical, rugged, and drop-in upgrade collapsible stock for carbine and AR-15. This Magpul Original Equipment (MOE) carbine buttstock is constructed with an A-frame design which is lightweight and comfortable. It also sports a wider than standard issue M4 stock comb contour, which helps the shooter maintain a solid cheekweld.
You won’t worry about snagging this folding stock on your clothing, vehicle interior, or gear because it features a streamlined exterior and protected release lever. It also comes with a heavy-duty polymer construction which is impact- and heat-resistant. This stock also sports two slots for web slings and a hole for a clip-on sling or toe-mounted sling swivel, and a soft, synthetic rubber butt pad.
PROS
- Synthetic rubber butt pad increases comfort
- Impact- and heat-resistant
- Wide comb contour
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Has streamlined exterior
CONS
- Wobbly and noisy
- No QD attachment
3. Brownells-AR-15 Enhanced Sopmod Stock Collapsible W/ Folding Stock Adapter
Brownells-AR-15 Enhanced Sopmod Stock Collapsible W/ Folding Stock Adapter features watertight battery compartments, making it an integral part of navy SEALS operations. These storage compartments are versatile and removable.
This folding stock adapter also provides a slightly longer cheekweld, even when in a fully collapsed state. This easy to collapse stock doesn’t wobble and is highly recommended for any position. It also comes with a comfortable butt pad, even at a 90-degree angle. The butt pad provides an excellent choice for comfortability to the shooter, even at a 90-degree angle. This collapsible product is forged from a hard-wearing polymer material.
PROS
- Won’t pull out any beard hairs
- Forged from a hard-wearing polymer
- Comfortable butt pad
- SOPMOD approved
- Has slightly longer cheekweld
CONS
- Not easily accessible compartments
- Relatively expensive
4. Sig Sauer, Inc. - Mpx/Mcx M4 Style Folding Stock
The Sig Sauer, Inc. – Mpx/Mcx M4 Style Folding Stock is also one of the best folding stocks for AR-15 on the market. It comes with a stable feel when shooting. Installing it can also be done with ease.
It also easily mounts on your receiver’s 1913 interface. You may get accessories like adjustable stock, hinge, torq adjustable mount for 1913 rail, and swivel knuckle when bought.
PROS
- Minimizes AR-15 rifle’s carry length
- Well made, rock-solid hinge tension
- Sturdy and excellent ease of use
- Ambidextrous
- Adjustable and collapsible
CONS
- May require some fitting
- Some adjustments may be stiff
5. Brownells - AR-15 Sopmod Bravo Stock Collapsible W/ Folding Stock Adapter
Brownells – AR-15 Sopmod Bravo Stock Collapsible W/ Folding Stock Adapter boasts perfectly fit cheek weld and durable materials. This stock is preferred for the special ops teams yet ideal for range practicing and home and tactical defense.
It also comes with a lightweight folding stock adapter, tight lockup, and fits on the buffer tube with ease. This collapsible stock also features QD points on both sides that work well. It comes with a latch that provides a fast length-of-pull adjustment. This folding stock adapter is also rock-solid and is suitable for rugged use even in extreme weather conditions. Lastly, it comes with a fluid design that protects it against snagging.
PROS
- Perfectly fit cheek weld
- Durable and solid
- High-quality guaranteed
- Affordable price
- Comes with a fluid design
CONS
- Slight wobbling
- Might not be suitable for all shooters
6. Brownells - AR-15 MOE Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec W/ Folding Stock Adapter
The Brownells – AR-15 MOE Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec W/ Folding Stock Adapter is a more affordable option but has all the CTR Folding Stock’s excellent features. This product could be the perfect replacement for standard factory-issued MR stocks. It also comes with a standard 3.0-inch rubber butt pad that averts slippage with ease.
This product with folding stock adapter is forged from reinforced and durable polymer and a rugged A-line frame that is lightweight, comfortable, and even offers the operator ample bolstering. This folding stock adapter also comes with a more spread-out contour than a standard-issued M4 stock, providing a steadier and more rigid cheek weld.
PROS
- Cost-effective
- Easy to install
- Comes with a rugged A-line frame
- Excellent quality
- Steadier and more rigid cheek weld
CONS
- Buffer tube is separately purchased
- Has a bit of wobble
7. Brownells - AR-15 Gen 3 Folding Stock Adapter W/M4 Stock Assembly
The Brownells – AR-15 Gen 3 Folding Stock Adapter W/M4 Stock Assembly works with regular gas impingement OR gas piston systems. This particular LAW folding stock adapter also accepts mil-spec M4-style, A2 stock, and commercial carbine receiver extension tubes. This LAW steel adapter is also well-suited with all standard bolt carrier groups, full-auto, and .308 size.
This LAW Gen 3 folding stock adapter comes with a single-button operation for quick unfolding and folding operations. This Law Tactical’s steel adapter also features a steel locking latch that ultimately keeps the stock/adapter securely in place even when extended. This LAW AR-15 folding stock also boasts a lowered hinge, a set screw, an adjustable hinge tension, and a DLC coating/DLC finish.
PROS
- Comes with an adjustable stock/adapter
- Adjustable hinge
- Made entirely of steel
- Easy to use single-button operation
- DLC Coating
CONS
- Adjustment isn’t smooth
8. Brownells - AR-15 Gen 3 Folding Stock Adapter W/Ultra Compact Stock
Brownells – AR-15 Gen 3 Folding Stock Adapter W/Ultra Compact Stock is also one of the best folding stocks for AR-15. This stock adapter is paired with the LWRC International UCIW (Ultra-Compact Individual Weapon) stock system. This product adapter also shortens the firearm’s overall length by a full inch, contrary to a standard AR.
The folding stock adapter includes the receiver extension, stock, buffer, index plate, castle nut, and recoil spring. Its system’s components are designed to work and be installed together for more reliable performance. This lightweight AR-15 folding stock adapter also features an integral sling attachment point, excellent cheek weld, and easy one-hand adjustments. This AR-15 folding stock adapter also comes with a rubber butt pad that prevents slippage when firing.
PROS
- Includes a compact stock/adapter
- Butt pad prevents slippage
- Lightweight and durable
- All-steel adapter
- Can be used and installed without tools
CONS
- Somewhat expensive
- Adds extra weight
- Some in-stock issues
Guide to Buying
Price Range
All budget shoppers always consider the price range to be the first factor in deciding whether the product is worth purchasing or not. While it’s true that it is also essential to know the folding stocks’ features, you must also learn how to weigh all things.
Are all the materials used and its special features enough reason for the stocks’ expensive price range? Remember, a lot more things than just the price tag or affordability itself needs to be considered.
Also Read: AR-15 vs M4
Material & Construction
Our experts recommend considering all the material and construction of the folding stocks before purchasing them for your AR-15. Our team always suggests looking for stocks constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum or steel because they always ensure durability and longevity.
Besides steel, polymers can also be highly flexible and pliable, a valuable property not provided by mineral materials. [1] Therefore, a polymer is also an ideal choice for stock adapters. It can resist all kinds of damages even during extreme weather conditions.
Easy Installation
It is also recommended to buy all-steel AR-15 folding stock adapters that are easy to install in your AR-15, like FoldAR for pistols. Our team suggests purchasing stocks with “drop-in” folding stock adapters. They make it easier to attach it to your AR-15 without any tools or gunsmithing experience or affecting the AR-15 rifle’s buffer integrity.
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Durability
If you intend to use the folding stock adapters for a long time, it is best to consider their durability and longevity.
Frequently, all materials and construction determine the durability of the best AR-15 folding stock adapter.
Therefore, it is always advised to buy the best AR-15 folding stock adapter forged with durable materials such as aluminum, steel, and polymer.
Comfort
All folding stock adapters have intended usage for your AR-15s. Besides making your rifles easier to store, giving them portability and customization abilities, they also give the shooters comfort. Hence, our team always suggests buying a stock adapter that offers a comfortable feel. Look for butt pads that are comfortable for shooters and helpful in preventing slippage when used while firing. We’d also like you to take a look into adding angled foregrips or foregrip bipods for both precision and comfort.
Compatibility
It would be best if shooters also considered researching details of the best AR-15 folding stock adapter we have on the market today. Compatibility is crucial for any adapter, so you ensure that your stocks are compatible with your AR-15 rifle before purchasing. Remember, not all mil-spec version stock adapters may be compatible with some carbine buffer tubes or AR-style fixed bolt action rifle chassis. This way, the chances of buying AR-15 stocks that aren’t compatible would be close to none.
What are the Advantages of Adding An AR-15 Folding Stock?
Portable
One of the advantages of adding an AR-15 folding stock adapter is portability. When your rifles have been accessorized with a stock, it could transform your all weapon/firearm into something easier to transport and carry. You won’t have to rely on a gun rack when carrying it into your vehicle.
Easy Storage
In case you own even just one AR-15 rifle, you might already know that storing your weapon/firearm is quite challenging. You’ll have to look for one place with a larger space to store it. However, through AR-15 folding stock adapters, it would become a way lot easier to store your rifles.
Since your weapon becomes collapsible, you won’t have to look for a way larger space. Your accessories such as ammo and other gunsmithing tools can be stored along with your AR-15 rifle, too.
Customizable
Another thing that’s advantageous of having a folding stock is its customization ability. Your AR-15 rifle’s size must match your body measurement for a way better comfort when using it.
Through the folding stock adapters for AR-15, you can now customize your rifle according to the best measurement suited for your body. You may use an Ar-15 regardless of whether the AR-15 folding stock adapters are pulled out, folded, and attached to the usual measurement.
FAQs
As long as you have the necessary supporting papers, owning the best AR-15 folding stocks on AR-15/AR-10 rifles is legal. There’s a standard barrel length that the law approves. Therefore, you have to remember to use these lengths in determining the measurement of the barrel and folding AR stocks you are about to add to your rifle. Generally, the barrel length should be at least 16” to 26” to become NFA items.
Like most rifle and gun accessories, the best AR-15 folding stock adapter may add weight to your rifle. Although it may only add some/a few ounces, any added weight still needs to be considered if you are after the portability and comfort of your AR-15 rifle. It is always best to look for the best AR-15 folding stocks that are durable and sturdy yet lightweight.
What’s Our #1 Choice for an AR-15 Folding Stock?
Based on comprehensive research, our team of experts’ number 1 choice/option for an AR-15 folding stock is the Magpul – AR-15 CTR Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec version. This adapter became our top pick/choice because it features a friction locking mechanism.
It also comes with a heavy-duty and spring-loaded hand lever that allows fast length-of-pull adjustments. Constructed with a Nylon polymer body, it provides heat resistance and maximum impact. This Magpul folding stock adapter also accepts various ambidextrous sling-type attachment options. It features a solid cheekweld because of its wider comb contour.
Our #1 Recommendation
Magpul – AR-15 CTR Stock Collapsible Mil-Spec
- Auxiliary friction lock decreases wobbling
- Chrome-silicon lock spring
- Well-balanced and durable
- Allows fast length-of-pull adjustments
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