Changing an A2 buttstock to A 1

[nathan]

What are the requirements to change the A2 longer stock of todays standard AR 15 to the shorter A 1 buttstock ? Do you have to buy the whole set up like buffer tube, spring, and A 1 stock to convert it ? And once done, does it look unnatural funky bec it has a shorter stock ? I really like the A 1 stock bec im a smaller guy and the A 2 seems to be too long. Whats your take on this?

 

[Welding Rod]

All you need is the A1 stock and the shorter screw that holds it on (or you can cut down the A2 screw).

One screw holds the A2 stock on. Take it out, slide the stock off the buffer tube, slip the A1 stock on, put in the shorter screw. Done.

 

[nathan]

Thanks, the A 1 stock seems perfect length as one can get closer to the rear sight.

 

[ApacheCoTodd]

If it's built properly you'll have a space between the end to the receiver extension (buffer tube) and the buttstock. This will be your indicator as to how much too long the screw is if you intend to re-use it before shortening it. Might as well get the proper screw and keep the A-2 stock, screw and spacer for later or someone else.

 

[AlexanderA]

I too prefer the A1 stock length. Your main problem will be to find an A1 stock in decent condition (if you don't have one already). These are getting pricey with all the "retro" building that's going on lately. Note also that the buttplates are different.

The buffer tubes are all the same length. The A2 stock uses a spacer on the end of the buffer tube, and a longer screw to go through the spacer into the buffer tube. In installing an A1 stock, just remove the spacer and use the shorter screw. BTW, there are screws with holes and screws without holes. I think the screw with a hole is preferable, because it prevents air from being compressed inside the buffer, and allows for drainage.

 

[1911 guy]

What they said. You'll need the new stock, A1 buttstock screw and remove the spacer you'll find directly under the stock and on the end of the buffer tube. It just slips on and off, held on by the screw you already removed to get the buttstock off.

 

[Quentin]

Something to consider, I believe the A1 is only .75" shorter than the A2. You may also want to look at Entry and Sully stocks.

If you go with a carbine receiver extension you could go with the Magpul ACS or their brand new rifle stock (I don't know which tube it uses).

 

[Welding Rod]

I like the lenght of the A1 stock, but I like a collapsible even better - specificially a Magpul MOE or CTR. My favorite AR is a gov profile 20" with plastic handguards and a CTR.

 

[ifit]

just yesterday received 2ea a1 stock sets from numrich, and removed my a2 stock and replaced with the a1 stock feels much better length wise, but i used the longer screw from the a2...seems to work fine.

 

[Welding Rod]

Don't shoot the gun. Get the right sized screw or cut yours down. The A2 screw is now protruding into the buffer tube and the end the plastic end of buffer is going to slam into it upon cycling.

 

[Quentin]

Welding Rod is 100% right, get the shorter screw before you shoot it!

 

[carbine85]

Look at the RRA Enrty Stock. It's what I'm using on my next upper build. It's the same length as the M4 stock colasped,

 

[ifit]

oh snap...thanks guys for the heads up