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AR-15 Folding Stocks: Advantages and Drawbacks

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While the AR-15 is a top performing rifle in many ways, one downside is the lack of a folding stock. Because the BCG reciprocates into the buffer tube, it’s impossible to fold the stock. At least, until recently. 

As the parts aftermarket for the AR-15 has continued to expand, there are now several folding stock adapters available, allowing you have to an incredibly compact rifle package. Though they’re great for making your rifle more compact, they come with their pros and cons.  

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What is an AR-15 Folding Stock Adapter?  

Before going in-depth into the pros and cons of folding adapters, what are they? A folding stock adapter is an aftermarket upgrade for the AR-15 that allows its stock to fold to the side, like other platforms. These adapters mount onto the lower receiver’s buffer tube threads and feature a hinge where the stock can fold. On its other side, there’s another mounting point for your buffer tube, stock, and recoil assembly. When it’s all together, it allows you to fold your stock over with the push of a button. 

Some of the most popular models available are the Law Tactical and Sylvan Arms Folding Stock Adapters. Both have similar designs, albeit with slight differences, but they functionally provide you with the same result. Some lower receivers include an integrated folding device as well, with models like the Shield Arms SA-15 having lower receiver options that come with a built-in folding mechanism. Regardless of which option you choose, each one allows your AR-15’s stock to fold to the side.  

Though these adapters offer considerable advantages for storage and portability, they have their hindrances as well. Just like with any other rifle modification, it’s crucial to understand both the benefits and limitations before adding one to your AR.  

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Pros of Folding Stock Adapters 

Ease of Storage and Improved Maneuverability 

One of the most significant benefits folding stock adapters provide is ease of storage. These adapters make it much easier to store rifles in an assortment of different sized range bags or backpacks, providing you with an added degree of portability that you wouldn’t otherwise have. This is especially useful if you’re building out an AR to use as a backpack gun, as having the ability to easily store and deploy the rifle without having to disassemble the upper and lower via its pivot pins is incredibly beneficial.  

In enclosed spaces, a folding stock enhances maneuverability, too. Although you can’t fire your rifle when folded if you’re using the stock bolt carrier group and recoil system, being able to fold the stock simplifies handling and storage. For instance, hunters can fold their stock to make it easier to stow when traversing land in a UTV or on foot. Something to note is that it is possible to further alter your rifle to make it capable of firing when folded, but we’ll touch more on this later. 

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Cons of Folding Stock Adapters 

Potential Point of Failure 

Despite their benefits, folding stock adapters come with their drawbacks too. Notably, they can be a potential point of failure on your rifle. Something to consider before moving forward is that the AR-15 wasn’t originally designed to have a folding stock. So, by adding a non-standard component to give it such capabilities, you introduce a new moving part that can wear out over time.  

Mechanically, folding stock adapters rely on a hinging mechanism which allows the stock to fold to the side. While this isn’t bad per se, if installed incorrectly, running the rifle can put excess strain on this hinge, potentially damaging it beyond repair in a worst-case scenario. This is highly unlikely when installed properly, but if it fails, it can render your rifle inoperable until fixed.  

Manual of Arms Changes 

Unlike other rifles with folding stocks, you won’t be able to fire an AR-15 when the stock is in the folded position. When folded, the buffer tube essentially disconnects from the AR, so if you fired the rifle, your BCG would fly out of the receiver and damage the BCG extension that’s needed for adapter use. This has a significant impact on the rifle’s manual of arms. Whereas on a SCAR or AK where you can get away with firing the rifle when the stock is folded, that isn’t the case with an AR-15. By adding an adapter to your rifle, you need to train to get used to locking the stock before shooting, eventually committing it to muscle memory. 

They can also change your rifle’s overall length. Depending on the adapter model you choose, your rifle’s length of pull can be increased by anywhere from 1.5 to 3 inches. While this doesn’t seem like a lot, it’s enough of a difference to be noticeable when firing the rifle. We recommend using an adjustable/collapsible stock with locks. With one, you can quickly adjust the length of pull and use the included stock locks to ensure they stay in your preferred position. 

Something to note is that there are captured bolt carrier group assemblies, like the Law Tactical ARIC (AR Internal Carrier), which incorporates a recoil spring assembly into the BCG. These allow the rifle to fire and properly cycle, even when the stock is folded. Without this upgrade, though, you can’t fire the rifle when folded without damaging it in the process. 

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Cost and Installation 

Adding a folding adapter to your AR-15 can be a costly investment at times. Depending on the model you look at, prices can range from $200 to $250+, while receivers with built-in folding mechanisms can cost $300+. On top of their high cost, proper installation is crucial, lest you run into the issues discussed above. Their installation is relatively straightforward, as they require the use of many of the same components, such as the castle nut and buffer tube. Still, installation can be tricky if you don’t already have the proper AR-15 tools to do the job at home. If you’re uncomfortable with disassembling and changing your rifle, we recommend taking it to a local gunsmith to get it installed professionally.  

Regardless of whether you opt for a Law Tactical or Sylvan Arms adapter, each model comes with detailed instructions on how to properly install them if you’re wanting to install it on your own. 

Legality 

Folding stock adapters are legal for the most part, but state and local laws can vary. Depending on your state, it may be illegal to add an adapter to your rifle, so it’s important to check your local and state regulations before buying one. If you do live in a state where you can freely add an adapter to your rifle, remember that all NFA rules apply. Adding an adapter doesn’t change your AR-15’s classification; a rifle remains a rifle, and a pistol remains a pistol. Though the overall length of your rifle increases when you add a folding stock adapter to it, it doesn’t increase the barrel length so you can’t use a stock if the barrel is less than 16-inches in length.  

Conclusion 

Adding a folding stock adapter onto your AR-15 can enhance your rifle’s versatility, storage abilities and its maneuverability, making it an attractive upgrade for many enthusiasts. Allowing for a more compact rifle package, they can easily be stowed and rapidly deployed when needed.  

Despite their benefits, it’s important to understand folding adapters can come with drawbacks too. Remember, folding adapters introduce a potential point of failure to the rifle, alter your rifle’s manual of arms, and their installation can be difficult for beginners looking to enhance their rifle.  

If you plan on modernizing your fixed stock assembly with a new one and a folding adapter, you’ll need to know how to remove your stock. Fortunately, our guide on how to remove an A2 stock goes over the process of removing stocks in a step-by-step guide.