Let’s Talk About JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad promises improved shoulder grip and slight recoil reduction while protecting your rifle’s base. Made by JL Billet in the USA, this seemingly simple accessory aims to enhance the shooting experience. I was eager to see if this pad lived up to its claims, or if it was just another tactical add-on destined for the parts bin.
I was looking for a way to add a bit more purchase to my rifle’s buttstock. I also wanted something that would prevent scratches and dings when setting the rifle down on rough surfaces. I was tired of my rifle sliding around on my shoulder, especially during dynamic shooting drills.
Unboxing the JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad was anticlimactic. The pad itself felt solid, with a decent rubber texture. However, I was immediately struck by the absence of mounting hardware, despite the product description stating it was included.
I considered the Magpul Enhanced Rubber Butt-Pad, which I’ve used on other rifles. I also considered the BCM Gunfighter Buttstock Mod 0, which offers a similar enhanced grip surface. I chose the JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad because I liked the idea of a simple, screw-on solution that didn’t require replacing the entire buttstock.
My initial reaction was disappointment, stemming directly from the missing hardware. The quality of the pad itself seemed fine, but the lack of mounting gear immediately soured the experience. I felt like I was only halfway to a functional upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
I eventually sourced appropriate screws and washers to mount the JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad. My first test took place at my local outdoor range, under sunny and mild conditions. I used it on my AR-15 during some rapid-fire drills and accuracy testing at 100 yards.
The improved shoulder grip was immediately noticeable. The rubber pad prevented the rifle from slipping as much during recoil. This was especially helpful during faster strings of fire.
Installing the pad, even with the sourced hardware, was a bit fiddly. Once installed, the pad felt secure, but the initial hardware issue left a negative impression. There were no other immediate issues after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad is holding up well. The rubber has shown no signs of cracking or degradation. It has retained its grippy texture, even after exposure to mud and dust.
The pad has proven to be quite durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor surface scuffs. It seems to be made from a quality rubber compound.
Cleaning the pad is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Overall, the JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad is a low-maintenance addition to my rifle.
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad performs roughly as well as the Magpul buttpad on my other rifle. Both offer decent grip and recoil reduction, but the JL Billet’s missing hardware and slightly higher price point make it less compelling. It doesn’t necessarily outperform similar products, but it also doesn’t disappoint in terms of basic functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad
Specifications
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad is a black rubber pad designed to mount to the bottom of compatible rifle bases. It weighs in at 0.2 lbs, adding minimal weight to the overall firearm. Its primary function is to improve shouldering grip and provide slight recoil reduction.
The pad is designed to be mounted using provided hardware to a base with optional accessory mount holes. It is manufactured in the USA by JL Billet. The black color ensures compatibility with most rifle aesthetics.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the pad’s effectiveness and ease of use. The rubber material provides the grip and recoil absorption. The weight ensures it doesn’t significantly alter the rifle’s balance.
Performance & Functionality
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad does improve shoulder grip and offers a small amount of recoil dampening. It prevents the rifle from slipping as much during firing. It also protects the base of the stock from minor impacts and scratches.
The major weakness is the lack of included mounting hardware, which significantly detracts from the user experience. The improvement in recoil reduction is minimal, but noticeable. It would have also been better to clearly indicate the screw sizes on their website.
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad meets my basic expectations for a rubber buttpad. It enhances grip and protects the stock. However, the missing hardware issue and modest recoil reduction prevent it from exceeding expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a durable rubber construction. The pad feels robust and well-made. However, the overall design is fairly simple.
The pad is generally user-friendly, assuming you have the necessary mounting hardware. There’s no learning curve involved in using it. Installing it can be a hassle without the proper screws and washers.
Durability & Maintenance
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad is constructed from durable rubber, suggesting a long lifespan. It shows no signs of degradation after months of use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Cleaning involves a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth. No specialized tools or products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad does not come with any included accessories, which is a significant drawback given the missing mounting hardware. There are no customization options available directly for the pad itself.
The pad is designed to be compatible with any rifle base that features optional accessory mounting holes. It should, theoretically, work with a wide variety of aftermarket stocks. It works by screwing into the bottom of the buttstock.
Pros and Cons of JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad
Pros
- Improved shoulder grip prevents slippage during firing.
- Provides slight recoil reduction for enhanced comfort.
- Durable rubber construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Protects the rifle base from scratches and minor impacts.
- Simple installation (assuming you have the hardware).
Cons
- Missing mounting hardware despite being listed in the product description.
- Recoil reduction is minimal and may not be noticeable for all users.
- Requires a rifle base with specific accessory mounting holes, limiting compatibility.
Who Should Buy JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad?
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad is perfect for AR-15 owners looking for a simple and durable way to improve their shoulder grip and protect their rifle stock. It would also be good for tactical shooters, or recreational shooters who want some extra grip. It is most beneficial for those who already have a compatible rifle base with the necessary mounting holes.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who are not comfortable sourcing their own mounting hardware. Also, it would be a waste for those expecting significant recoil reduction. Shooters with rifles that lack the required accessory mounting holes should also avoid it.
Must-have accessories or modifications are, first and foremost, the correct mounting screws and washers. Beyond that, a compatible rifle base with accessory mounting holes is essential. Blue Loctite would also be great for ensuring secure installation.
Conclusion on JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad
The JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad offers a functional, albeit somewhat underwhelming, upgrade for AR-15 enthusiasts. It improves shoulder grip and provides minimal recoil reduction. However, the glaring omission of mounting hardware significantly detracts from the overall experience.
The price of $16.00 is reasonable for the pad itself. However, the cost of sourcing the necessary hardware adds to the expense. It doesn’t necessarily feel justified given the incomplete package.
I am hesitant to fully recommend the JL Billet MBS Rubber Base Pad. The missing hardware issue is simply unacceptable. If JL Billet addresses this issue, the pad would be a worthwhile addition to any AR-15.
Check your gear and always double check if all the parts are available. Ensure your gear is in top-notch condition before you need it the most.