The collapsable stock / brace has become the standard on AR type weapons because of it's user fit adjustability, and the stocks ability to reduce the weapons over all length. Side folders for the AR have been scarce - That pesky buffer tube thing being an issue...
Several companies have offered hinged type adaptors that attach between the guns frame and buffer tube, allowing the buffer tube / stock or brace to fold as a unit parallel to the left side of the gun.
I wanted to try one on my Ruger AR-15 pistol with an SB-3 brace already installed from Ruger, and picked up a "Sylvan" brand unit, complete w/ everything needed in the package for $119.00 on sale at PSA. Fit and finish seemed fine. Adaptor is made of forged aluminum, locks closed tightly, swings closed smoothly, and is held folded with a mild and effective detent. A bolt carrier extension that fits in the back of the guns carrier is included, and needed to account for the adaptors slight increase in buffer tube OAL.
It was simple to install, needing only the proper spanner wrench, and a small flat tip screwdriver. If you can change out a buffer tube, you can install this.
Went on easy, functioned like it was supposed to, so off to the range. Fired 120 rounds. No malfunctions, and even kept the same 50 yard zero.
Some thoughts - You can NOT fire the gun with the stock / brace folded. When folded, the buffer tube is disconnected from the bolt carrier, which is now locked in place, and cannot travel to the rear. The stock must be opened to the firing position for it to function.
If you were hoping for a more compact solution for carrying an AR pistol, especially concealed on your person, this isn't it. What you lose in the weapons OAL, you more than make up for by about doubling the thickness of the gun with the stock folded to the side. And you cant carry it using a sling attached anywhere on your stock / brace while folded, because the detent that holds the adaptor folded closed is firm enough to do just that, but not to support the weight if the gun on a sling, so it will open on you, forcing you to carry it with the adaptor in the locked, firing position.
I see the main benefit of this folding adaptor as decreasing the weapons OAL. This can make a difference when trying to say fit in a vehicle compartment, saddlebag, backpack, or any situation were OAL is important. I like it, and will keep it on the pistol for the very reasons I mentioned above. Would I put it on an AR where OAL is not a prime consideration? Probably not. Why increase the complexity, both mechanically and in use of arms procedures if there is not a perceived need? Anyway, I don't see much about these folding adaptors for AR's, and I thought I would try one out and pass along my thoughts. Anyone else have one?
Larry
Folding Stock On An AR-15???
Linear Mode
