Let’s Talk About Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock
The Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock is a premium aftermarket AR-15 stock designed for shooters prioritizing weight reduction and enhanced ergonomics. Crafted by Smoke Composites and branded by Wilson Combat, this buttstock boasts a lightweight carbon fiber construction and a snag-free design. It promises to significantly lighten your rifle while maintaining a comfortable and functional interface.
My journey to this particular buttstock began with a quest to build the ultimate lightweight AR-15. I wanted a rifle I could comfortably carry all day during hunts or training sessions without sacrificing performance or reliability. I was tired of the bulky, heavy stocks that came standard on most AR platforms.
The Wilson Combat stock arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The first thing that struck me was the weight – or lack thereof. The carbon fiber weave is visually appealing, and the overall build quality seemed excellent.
I considered several other lightweight stock options, including the Battle Arms Development VERT PDW Stock and the Lancer Carbon Fiber Stock. The Wilson Combat option stood out due to its closed shoulder design, promising a snag-free experience, something crucial for tactical applications. I also appreciated the Wilson Combat branding, known for quality and performance.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to install it and feel the difference it would make on my rifle’s overall weight and balance. I hoped it would live up to its promise of being both lightweight and durable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock primarily at my local shooting range. The weather conditions were typical for the area – sunny with a slight breeze. I also put it through its paces during a carbine course that involved various shooting positions and movement drills.
The stock was incredibly easy to shoulder and provided a consistent cheek weld. Its light weight made transitions between targets noticeably quicker. The closed shoulder design proved its worth, as it didn’t snag on my gear or clothing during movement drills.
There were no immediate issues after the first range session. The stock felt solid and secure, and it significantly reduced the overall weight of my rifle. The improved balance was also immediately noticeable, making the rifle feel more maneuverable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of cracking or deformation in the carbon fiber. The finish remains intact, despite being exposed to various weather conditions and rough handling.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve occasionally used a carbon fiber cleaner to maintain its appearance, but it’s not strictly necessary. So far, there is no real wear and tear.
Compared to the Magpul MOE stock I previously used, the Wilson Combat stock is significantly lighter and more comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The Magpul stock felt bulky and added unnecessary weight, whereas the Wilson Combat version feels streamlined and almost disappears when shouldered. It has definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock
Specifications
The Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock is designed for Mil-Spec AR-15 buffer tubes. It weighs in at an incredibly light 4.5 ounces. The material is, of course, high-strength carbon fiber.
The buttstock is compatible with standard AR-15 buffer tubes and springs, making installation straightforward. Its lightweight construction significantly reduces the overall weight of the rifle, improving maneuverability. The closed shoulder design minimizes snagging, crucial for tactical applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock excels in its primary function: reducing weight and enhancing ergonomics. Its lightweight design allows for faster transitions between targets and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The snag-free design is a welcome addition, especially for those who use their rifles in tactical scenarios.
Its primary strengths are its incredibly low weight and comfortable design. The only potential weakness is its higher price compared to polymer stocks. The stock meets and exceeds expectations for lightweight builds.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a smooth and consistent carbon fiber weave. The weight is incredibly light, making the rifle feel significantly more balanced. It is comfortable to shoulder, providing a consistent cheek weld for accurate shooting.
The design is straightforward and user-friendly. Installation is simple, requiring no special tools or modifications. There is virtually no learning curve; the stock feels natural and intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The carbon fiber construction is remarkably durable, capable of withstanding significant abuse. It requires minimal maintenance; a simple wipe-down is usually sufficient to keep it clean. With proper care, this buttstock should last for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard AR-15 sling attachment points. No specific customization options are offered directly by Wilson Combat for this stock.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock
Pros
- Extremely Lightweight: Significantly reduces overall rifle weight, improving maneuverability.
- Snag-Free Design: Prevents snagging on gear or clothing, ideal for tactical applications.
- Durable Construction: High-strength carbon fiber ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Compatible with standard Mil-Spec buffer tubes, no special tools needed.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: Provides a comfortable and consistent cheek weld for improved accuracy.
Cons
- Higher Price: More expensive than polymer stock options.
- Limited Customization: Fewer customization options compared to modular stock systems.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock?
The Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock is perfect for shooters who prioritize weight reduction and enhanced ergonomics in their AR-15 builds. This includes hunters who carry their rifles for extended periods, competitive shooters looking to improve their speed and maneuverability, and tactical users who need a snag-free platform. It is also suitable for anyone looking to build an ultra-lightweight AR-15.
This product might not be ideal for budget-conscious builders or those who prefer a stock with extensive customization options. Shooters who prioritize adjustable length of pull or cheek rest height might find other options more suitable. There aren’t a lot of adjustments on this buttstock.
A must-have accessory would be a lightweight buffer tube assembly to fully maximize the weight savings potential.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock
The Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock is a worthwhile investment for those seeking to significantly reduce the weight of their AR-15 without sacrificing durability or functionality. Its snag-free design and comfortable ergonomics make it a standout option for tactical and sporting applications. The price is justified by the quality of materials and the noticeable improvement in rifle handling.
I would personally recommend this buttstock to anyone looking to build a lightweight AR-15 or upgrade their existing platform. It delivers on its promises and provides a noticeable improvement in performance. If you’re ready to shed some weight and improve your AR-15’s handling, the Wilson Combat Smoke Composites Carbon Fiber Closed Shoulder Buttstock is an excellent choice.