First Impressions of Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip
The lever-action rifle holds a special place in American history and continues to be a popular choice for hunting and sport shooting. The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip aims to modernize this classic platform, bringing ergonomic improvements and tactical versatility to the venerable Marlin 1895. Midwest Industries is known for its high-quality AR-15 components, so I was eager to see how their expertise translated to the lever-action world.
I’ve always appreciated the quick handling of a lever gun, but the traditional stock geometry never quite felt “right” to me. Hunting in dense brush, a more compact and adjustable stock seemed like a worthwhile upgrade. I hoped the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip would solve this issue.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The aluminum chassis felt solid and well-made, and the polymer cheek piece had a reassuringly rigid feel. Compared to the traditional wood stock, this immediately felt like a serious upgrade.
I considered other options like the Magpul stock, but the adjustability and the integrated pistol grip of the Midwest Industries model won me over. The Midwest Industries design just looked more refined and purposeful. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a more modern and ergonomic lever-action experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip was at a local shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the improved ergonomics and how it affected my accuracy. The weather was clear but slightly windy.
The pistol grip immediately improved my control over the rifle. The adjustable cheek piece allowed me to get a perfect cheek weld, whether using iron sights or a red dot optic. There were no major issues after the installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains, the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip has proven its worth. The hardcoat anodized finish has held up well against the bumps and scrapes of the hunt. Minimal signs of wear and tear were visible.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps everything in top condition. This is a significant improvement over the traditional wood stock, which required more careful attention to prevent moisture damage. It has significantly outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Midwest Industries. This is a reputable company known for quality AR-15 components.
- Color: Black. Offers a tactical look and blends well with other accessories.
- Finish: Hardcoat Anodized. Provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum, Polymer. Balances strength and weight effectively.
- Gun Make: Marlin. Specifically designed for Marlin lever-action rifles.
- Gun Model: Marlin Model 1895. Confirmed compatibility with the popular 1895 model.
- Length: 13.5 in. Maintains a factory length of pull for most users.
- Weight: 1.5 lb. Adds some weight, but the improved ergonomics are worth it.
- Additional Features: Adjustable Cheek Piece. This allows for optimal eye alignment with various optics.
- Condition: New. Brand new product with all included components.
- Country of Origin: USA. Supports American manufacturing.
These specifications translate to a stock that is both rugged and adaptable. The adjustable cheek piece is particularly crucial for achieving consistent accuracy with different sighting systems.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip dramatically improves the handling of my Marlin 1895. The pistol grip provides a more natural and secure hold. The adjustable cheek piece is a game-changer, allowing for consistent eye alignment with both iron sights and red dot optics.
The only minor weakness is the added weight, which is noticeable but manageable. The improved control and adjustability far outweigh this minor drawback. The stock has met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The aluminum chassis feels incredibly solid, and the polymer cheek piece is both comfortable and durable. The stock feels great in hand.
There’s a slight learning curve to adjusting the cheek piece, but it’s intuitive and easy to master. Once dialed in, the stock feels like a natural extension of the rifle. It’s easy and friendly to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardcoat anodized finish is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and corrosion. This stock is built to withstand the rigors of hunting and tactical use. It’s easy to maintain.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock features several properly placed anti-rotation QD swivel sockets for sling attachment. It also incorporates one standard sling swivel location and stud for versatile sling placement. M-LOK compatible slots on either side allow for the attachment of MI shell holders or other M-LOK accessories. These offer many options.
The adjustable cheek piece is a significant customization option in itself. Spacer plates are available for those who need a longer length of pull.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip
Pros
- Improved Ergonomics: The pistol grip and adjustable cheek piece significantly enhance comfort and control.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Consistent cheek weld leads to better accuracy, especially with optics.
- Durable Construction: The aluminum chassis and hardcoat anodized finish are built to last.
- Versatile Sling Attachment Points: Multiple QD sockets and sling swivel studs offer flexible sling options.
- M-LOK Compatibility: Allows for the attachment of accessories like shell holders and lights.
Cons
- Added Weight: Slightly heavier than a traditional wood stock.
- Price: At $259.95, it’s a significant investment for a stock upgrade.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip?
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip is perfect for:
- Hunters who want a more ergonomic and adjustable stock for their Marlin 1895.
- Tactical shooters who want to modernize their lever-action rifle with enhanced features.
- Anyone looking to improve the accuracy and handling of their Marlin lever gun.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who prefer the traditional look and feel of a classic wood stock.
- Shooters on a tight budget who are not concerned with advanced ergonomics.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A quality red dot sight or low-power variable optic (LPVO) to take full advantage of the adjustable cheek piece.
- An M-LOK compatible shell holder for convenient access to extra ammunition.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to modernize their Marlin 1895 lever-action rifle. The improved ergonomics, adjustability, and durability make it a significant improvement over the traditional stock. The price is justified by the quality of construction and the enhanced shooting experience.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who wants to unlock the full potential of their Marlin lever gun. If you’re ready to take your lever-action shooting to the next level, the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Marlin Pistol Grip is an investment you won’t regret. Consider adding this stock to your rifle today for improved performance.