Let’s Talk About Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate is a seemingly simple, yet crucial component for shooters looking to customize their MBA-1 or MBA-2 stocks. Manufactured by Luth-AR, these side plates offer vertical attachment points for supporting cheek pieces or adjustable butt plates, allowing for a more personalized and ergonomic shooting experience. I was intrigued by the potential to fine-tune my stock for improved comfort and precision.
I was seeking a way to optimize the cheek weld on my precision rifle, which had become a frustrating issue during longer range sessions. The factory setup just wasn’t quite right for my facial structure and preferred shooting stance. I picked the Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate to fix this.
Upon opening the small package, I was struck by the simplicity of the design. The plates are small, lightweight, and appear to be made from a durable polymer. The finish is a matte black, consistent with the rest of my MBA-1 stock.
I considered other options, like aftermarket cheek risers that attach directly to the buffer tube, but they seemed less stable and less integrated than using these side plates in conjunction with a dedicated cheek piece. The Luth-AR solution offered a more robust and adjustable platform. My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic, hoping that these simple plates would provide the stability and adjustability I needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I was primarily focused on dialing in a new optic on my AR-10. I attached the Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate to my existing MBA-1 stock and then mounted a basic adjustable cheek rest to them. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The side plates themselves performed exactly as expected. They provided a solid and stable mounting platform for the cheek rest, and I immediately noticed a difference in my cheek weld. I found that I could achieve a much more consistent and comfortable shooting position.
There weren’t any immediate issues, but I did notice that the screws securing the cheek rest to the side plates needed occasional tightening. I solved this by adding some blue Loctite.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plates have proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my rifle. They have withstood numerous range trips and even a couple of hunting excursions. They are durable.
I haven’t observed any significant wear and tear on the plates themselves. The matte black finish has held up well, showing no signs of fading or scratching. Cleaning is simple; just wipe them down with a damp cloth.
Compared to the factory stock configuration, these plates, coupled with a proper cheek rest, have dramatically improved my shooting comfort and accuracy. The enhanced cheek weld has allowed me to maintain a consistent head position, resulting in tighter groupings and more confident shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate
Specifications
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate is designed specifically for the MBA-1 and MBA-2 modular buttstocks. It is molded from a durable polymer and finished in black. The plates attach vertically to the stock, providing a platform for mounting cheek pieces or adjustable butt plates.
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate‘s Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Luth-AR.
- Color: Black.
- Compatibility: MBA-1 and MBA-2 stocks.
- Function: Provides vertical attachment points.
The specification matter because the design allows for customization. A shooter can adjust their length of pull, cheek weld, and overall ergonomics.
Performance & Functionality
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate excels at providing a stable and versatile mounting platform for aftermarket accessories. The plates allow the shooter to precisely dial in their cheek weld, which is crucial for accuracy and comfort, particularly when using optics. The plates also help to reduce felt recoil.
The primary strength lies in their simplicity and effectiveness. They perform exactly as advertised, providing a solid foundation for customization. One potential area for improvement might be to include pre-drilled holes for a wider range of cheek rests, though the current configuration is adequate for most applications.
The plates absolutely meet my expectations. They fixed my cheek weld problem on my rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate features a simple and functional design. The polymer construction is lightweight yet durable, adding minimal weight to the overall rifle. The black finish seamlessly integrates with the MBA-1 and MBA-2 stocks.
These side plates are user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate suggests a long lifespan under normal use conditions. The material is resistant to impacts and scratches, ensuring that the plates will hold up to the rigors of regular shooting. Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep them clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate themselves don’t come with any accessories, as they are designed to be used in conjunction with other aftermarket components. The primary customization option is the choice of cheek rest or adjustable butt plate that is mounted to the plates. The are compatible with any device that uses mounting screws.
Pros and Cons of Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate
Pros
- Provides a stable and secure mounting platform.
- Allows for precise cheek weld adjustment.
- Durable polymer construction.
- Easy to install.
- Inexpensive upgrade that greatly improves ergonomics.
Cons
- Requires the purchase of a separate cheek rest or adjustable butt plate.
- May require occasional tightening of mounting screws.
Who Should Buy Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate?
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate is perfect for shooters who own an MBA-1 or MBA-2 stock and are looking to improve their shooting comfort and accuracy through custom cheek weld adjustment. Precision rifle shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and hunters who use optics will benefit most from this product.
Anyone who is satisfied with the factory cheek weld on their MBA-1 or MBA-2 stock and doesn’t require additional adjustment should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a compatible cheek rest or adjustable butt plate that can be mounted to the side plates. Blue Loctite is also recommended to prevent screws from loosening over time.
Conclusion on Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate
The Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate is a simple, affordable, and effective upgrade for shooters looking to customize their MBA-1 or MBA-2 stocks. At a price of $8.49, the price is more than justified. These plates have greatly improved the ergonomics of my rifle.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone who wants to enhance their shooting experience. For a small investment, the Luth-AR MBA-1 Side Plate can make a significant difference in comfort, accuracy, and overall performance. Upgrade your stock today!