Why Upgrade Your Ruger American Stock?
Enhanced Ergonomics and Comfort
Choosing to replace your **Ruger American stock** with an **aftermarket** option is more than just a cosmetic change; it’s an investment in your shooting comfort, accuracy, and overall enjoyment. The original stock, while adequate for many, might not offer the best ergonomics or be tailored to your specific shooting style. Let’s explore some compelling reasons to consider an upgrade.
Improved Grip and Handling
Many **aftermarket stocks** feature improved grip designs. Whether it’s a pistol grip or a more ergonomic thumbhole design, the goal is to give you a better hold on the rifle, allowing for greater control and more consistent shot placement. Improved gripping reduces hand fatigue during long shooting sessions.
Adjustable Length of Pull (LOP)
This is a critical factor in ensuring a proper fit. LOP is the distance from the trigger to the back of the stock. An adjustable LOP allows you to customize the stock to your specific body size, ensuring you can comfortably shoulder the rifle and achieve proper sight alignment. Correct LOP is essential for consistent shooting and preventing issues like recoil discomfort.
Adjustable Cheekpiece Height
This feature enables you to align your eye perfectly with your scope or iron sights. A cheekpiece that’s too low will force you to strain, while one that’s too high will make it difficult to get a good sight picture. Adjustable cheekpieces eliminate this problem by allowing you to fine-tune the height for optimal comfort and accuracy.
Better Weight Distribution
Some **aftermarket stocks** are designed to optimize the weight distribution of your rifle. This can make the rifle feel more balanced and easier to handle, especially when moving quickly or shooting from different positions.
Accuracy and Performance Improvements
Beyond comfort, **aftermarket stocks** can significantly improve the accuracy and overall performance of your **Ruger American Rifle**.
Reduced Flex and Vibration
High-quality **aftermarket stocks**, particularly those made from rigid materials, can minimize flex and vibration during firing. This stability contributes to more consistent barrel harmonics, which, in turn, leads to tighter groupings. A stiffer stock essentially provides a more stable platform for the barrel and action.
Improved Bedding
Many **aftermarket stocks** offer improved bedding systems. Bedding refers to the contact between the action (the rifle’s core) and the stock. Properly bedded rifles ensure that the action is firmly and consistently supported, reducing stress and promoting consistent barrel alignment.
Potential for Better Groupings
Ultimately, the combination of improved ergonomics, reduced vibration, and optimized bedding can translate into tighter shot groupings. This means greater accuracy at various distances, allowing you to make more precise shots.
Customization and Aesthetics
Upgrading your stock also allows you to customize your rifle’s appearance and functionality.
Variety of Colors, Finishes, and Materials
**Aftermarket stocks** come in a wide array of colors, finishes, and materials. This allows you to personalize your rifle to match your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a tactical black, a classic wood grain, or a unique camouflage pattern, you’re likely to find a stock that suits your taste.
Addition of Picatinny Rails or Sling Attachment Points
Many **aftermarket stocks** incorporate features like Picatinny rails for mounting accessories such as bipods, lights, or lasers. They may also include more versatile sling attachment points, improving your ability to carry and manage your rifle.
Overall Personalized Look and Feel
By choosing a new stock, you can transform the look and feel of your **Ruger American Rifle**. This allows you to make it your own and reflect your individual style.
Addressing Common Issues
**Aftermarket stocks** can solve some common issues found in factory stocks. A poorly designed factory stock might not have the ideal fit or be made of the best materials. They can be prone to warping or damage. Choosing an **aftermarket** option provides greater durability and longevity.
Types of Aftermarket Stocks for Ruger American Rifles
The world of **aftermarket stocks** for the **Ruger American** is diverse, catering to various needs and preferences. Here are some common types to consider.
Synthetic Stocks
Synthetic stocks are popular for their durability, weather resistance, and lightweight characteristics.
Materials
Synthetic stocks are typically made from materials like reinforced polymer, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. Polymer stocks are a cost-effective and versatile option. Fiberglass offers a good balance of strength and weight. Carbon fiber represents the premium choice, known for its extreme strength-to-weight ratio.
Pros
Synthetic stocks are incredibly durable and can withstand harsh conditions. They are generally impervious to moisture, making them ideal for use in wet or humid environments. Their lightweight nature also helps reduce the overall weight of the rifle, enhancing portability.
Cons
While very practical, some shooters find synthetic stocks less aesthetically pleasing than wood. Some models can have a more hollow feel compared to other materials.
Examples
Many manufacturers produce high-quality synthetic stocks for the **Ruger American**. Some popular brands include Magpul, which offers affordable and functional stocks with adjustable features. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks are also very well regarded and often use a tough polymer to offer durability and good value.
Wood Stocks
Wood stocks offer a classic look and feel, appealing to those who appreciate traditional aesthetics.
Materials
The most common wood used for rifle stocks is walnut, known for its strength, beauty, and workability. Laminate stocks are made from layers of wood glued together, providing increased stability and resistance to warping.
Pros
Wood stocks offer a timeless and beautiful appearance. They can provide excellent vibration dampening, which can contribute to improved accuracy.
Cons
Wood stocks require more maintenance than synthetic stocks. They can be susceptible to damage from moisture, temperature changes, and impacts. They can also be heavier than synthetic options.
Examples
Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is a major supplier of various wooden stocks for the Ruger American. Often these are of a high quality, offered at reasonable prices.
Chassis Systems
Chassis systems represent a more modern and modular approach to rifle stocks.
Description
Chassis systems typically consist of a rigid aluminum or steel frame that replaces the traditional stock. These frames provide a solid foundation for the action and are often designed with modularity in mind. You attach other components such as the forend, buttstock, and pistol grip.
Pros
Chassis systems offer exceptional accuracy potential due to their rigid construction. They provide a high degree of adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune the fit to your exact preferences. The modular design allows for easy customization and the addition of accessories. They often have a sleek tactical look.
Cons
Chassis systems can be more expensive than other stock types. They typically require the addition of a separate buttstock, pistol grip, and forend, which increases the overall cost.
Examples
Leading manufacturers such as Modular Driven Technologies (MDT) and Kinetic Research Group (KRG) offer highly regarded chassis systems designed for the Ruger American.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Stock
Selecting the right **aftermarket stock** for your **Ruger American** involves careful consideration of several factors.
Compatibility is Key
Ensure that the stock you choose is compatible with your specific model of the **Ruger American Rifle**. The RAR comes in various configurations, including short action, long action, and different calibers.
Material and Construction Quality
The material and construction quality of the stock have a huge impact on its durability, weight, and overall performance.
Durability, Weight, and Weather Resistance
Assess the material’s resistance to wear, tear, and the elements.
Quality of the Construction
Look for stocks that are well-built with a tight fit and finish.
Adjustability is Critical
Adjustability features are vital for achieving a comfortable and accurate shooting experience.
Adjustable LOP and Cheekpiece
These are the most important adjustable features. LOP ensures a proper fit, and an adjustable cheekpiece allows you to align your eye with the scope.
Other Adjustable Features
Some stocks offer adjustable comb height, recoil pad height, and even the angle of the pistol grip.
Ergonomics are Vital
Consider the ergonomics of the stock, as this greatly influences your shooting comfort and control.
Grip Shape and Design
Choose a grip that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain a firm hold on the rifle.
Comfort and Feel
Select a stock that feels natural in your hands and promotes a comfortable shooting stance.
Weight Implications
The weight of the stock will impact the overall weight of your rifle.
How Weight Impacts Handling and Portability
A lighter stock can improve handling and make the rifle easier to carry, particularly during long hunts or range sessions. Heavier stocks can help absorb recoil and improve stability, which is often preferred for benchrest shooting.
Price and Budget
Set a budget before you start shopping and factor in the cost of any additional accessories you might need. **Aftermarket stocks** come in a wide range of prices.
Installation Guide
The installation process for an **aftermarket stock** is generally straightforward, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully and prioritize safety.
Prioritize Safety
- Unload the rifle completely: Before you begin any work on your rifle, always double-check to make sure it is unloaded and that there are no rounds in the chamber or magazine.
- Clear the area: Make sure there are no other people or pets in the area where you are working.
- Wear eye protection: Always wear eye protection to prevent injury.
Tools You Might Need
- Screwdrivers (appropriate sizes and types for your rifle’s action screws)
- Torque wrench (highly recommended for accurate and consistent tightening of action screws)
- Allen wrenches (if your stock uses adjustable features that require them)
- Gunsmithing vise or a padded work surface.
Removing the Original Stock
- Unload the rifle: Confirm that the firearm is unloaded.
- Remove the action screws: Locate the action screws (typically two or three screws that secure the action to the stock). Carefully unscrew them, taking care not to strip the screw heads.
- Carefully remove the stock: Once the screws are removed, the action should separate from the stock. Be careful not to force anything. There might be pins or other attachments that you need to remove as well.
Installing the Aftermarket Stock
- Install action into the new stock: Place the action into the new stock, ensuring it is seated properly.
- Tighten the action screws to the recommended torque specification: This is the most critical step. Over-tightening can damage the action or stock, and under-tightening can lead to accuracy problems. Use a torque wrench and consult the stock manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct torque setting.
- Attach any additional accessories: Install any additional accessories, such as sling swivels or adjustable cheekpieces, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Action not seating properly: If the action does not seat properly, double-check that all screws are aligned and that there are no obstructions.
- Loose screws: Make sure that the action screws are tightened to the correct torque specifications.
- Improper fit: The fit should be snug.
- Consult manufacturer support: If you run into any issues, consult the stock manufacturer’s website or contact their customer support.
Brands and Recommendations
Several reputable manufacturers offer high-quality **aftermarket stocks** for the **Ruger American Rifle**.
- Magpul: Offers affordable, durable, and functional synthetic stocks with adjustable features.
- Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks: Provides a wide selection of wooden stocks known for their quality and classic look.
- MDT: Offers high-end chassis systems known for their modularity and exceptional accuracy potential.
- KRG: Another highly regarded manufacturer of chassis systems, known for their innovative designs.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and performance of your **aftermarket stock**.
- Cleaning and maintaining the stock: Clean the stock regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Use a mild cleaner if necessary. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Proper storage: Store your rifle in a secure, dry location.
- Checking for wear and tear: Regularly inspect your stock for any signs of wear, damage, or looseness.
Conclusion
Upgrading your **Ruger American Rifle** with an **aftermarket stock** is a smart investment. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can choose a stock that will significantly improve your shooting experience. Enhanced ergonomics, better accuracy, and customizable aesthetics are all within reach.
Remember to research the available options, prioritize safety during installation, and enjoy the benefits of a better-equipped rifle. Consider features like an adjustable length of pull and a comfortable grip.
We encourage you to explore the market and choose the best stock for your individual shooting style and intended use.
Call to Action
If you found this article helpful, share your experiences and insights by leaving a comment below. What **aftermarket stock** have you used on your **Ruger American**? What are your favorite features?
For purchasing options and additional information, we recommend visiting the websites of the manufacturers mentioned in this article. They provide detailed product descriptions, specifications, and often, customer reviews.
