The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN Made a Bold First Impression
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN promises an affordable upgrade to the standard AR-15 stock, offering a customizable cheek riser and enhanced ergonomics. NcSTAR aims to provide tactical functionality without breaking the bank. I was looking for a cost-effective way to improve my rifle’s cheek weld for better optic alignment.
My standard stock felt flimsy and didn’t provide consistent eye relief with my scope. I wanted a stock that could be adjusted to my specific needs and provide a more stable platform. The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN seemed to offer that at a compelling price point.
Upon unboxing, the tan color was as expected, and the stock felt surprisingly solid for the price. The rubber butt pad had a nice give to it, and the cheek riser mechanism seemed functional. However, the polymer felt a bit less refined than higher-end stocks I’ve handled from Magpul or BCM.
I considered the Magpul MOE SL stock and the BCM Gunfighter stock, both renowned for their quality and durability. However, they were significantly more expensive, and I was intrigued by the adjustable cheek riser on the VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN. Ultimately, the price and the adjustable cheek riser swayed me to give this stock a try.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The stock seemed well-built enough for recreational use, and I was eager to test its adjustability and overall comfort. It felt like a decent compromise between features and affordability.
Real-World Testing: Putting VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN at my local outdoor shooting range. I spent the day running drills, focusing on transitions and target acquisition. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal testing conditions.
The stock was easy to install onto my MIL-Spec buffer tube, sliding on smoothly and locking into place. Adjusting the length of pull was simple, although the latch mechanism felt slightly less robust than premium stocks. The cheek riser adjustment was straightforward, and I quickly found a comfortable height for my optic.
After about 100 rounds, the stock held up well, with no noticeable loosening or shifting. However, the rubber butt pad started to feel a bit slick against my shoulder after extended use. No major issues arose during this initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN has proven to be a decent, albeit not exceptional, addition to my rifle. The tan finish has held up well, with only minor scratches and scuffs. It’s been used on a few hunting trips in varied weather conditions and has maintained function.
Durability-wise, the polymer construction shows some wear, particularly around the adjustment latch. The cheek riser mechanism still functions, but it feels a bit looser than when new. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient for maintenance.
Compared to my previous stock, the VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN offers a significant improvement in cheek weld and optic alignment. However, it doesn’t quite match the overall robustness and refined feel of higher-end stocks. It adequately performs its intended function at its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN
Specifications
- The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN is designed for MIL-Spec buffer tubes. This ensures compatibility with most standard AR-15 platforms.
- It features a full-length 5.5″/140mm cheek piece for proper cheek positioning when using mounted optics. This longer cheek piece allows for better eye relief and a more stable shooting platform.
- The cheek piece is adjustable to six different height positions, offering up to 1.25″/32mm of adjustment. This adjustability is a key selling point, allowing users to customize the stock to their specific optic and shooting style.
- The stock includes metal QD sling swivel attachment points on both sides, as well as several molded-in 1.5″ sling loops. This provides versatile sling attachment options for various tactical applications.
- An integrated rubber butt pad is included for enhanced comfort, a non-slip grip, and recoil mitigation. The rubber pad helps to absorb recoil and provides a more secure shoulder hold.
- The stock features a unique latch mechanism with a first click for adjusting the stock position and a second full click for mounting/demounting. This dual-action latch system simplifies adjustments and installation.
Performance & Functionality
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN performs its primary function of providing a stable and adjustable platform for shooting. The adjustable cheek riser significantly improves optic alignment. However, the overall feel and robustness are not on par with higher-end stocks.
The stock’s strengths lie in its adjustability and affordability. The cheek riser offers a customizable cheek weld, enhancing shooting comfort and accuracy. The main weakness is the polymer construction, which feels less durable than metal or reinforced polymer alternatives.
The stock meets expectations for a budget-friendly upgrade. It offers tangible improvements over a basic stock but doesn’t quite reach the performance level of premium options.
Design & Ergonomics
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN features a sleek design that integrates well with most AR-15 platforms. The tan color provides a tactical aesthetic. The polymer material keeps the weight manageable.
The cheek riser adjustment is intuitive and easy to use. The QD sling swivel attachment points are well-placed. The stock has a slight learning curve when first installing it, but overall it is reasonably user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN should last for several years with proper care and recreational use. The polymer construction is susceptible to scratches and wear with heavy use. The latching mechanism, being polymer, is most prone to failing over time.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. There are no user-serviceable parts, and repairs would likely require replacing the entire stock.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN is primarily designed to be a standalone upgrade. There aren’t specific accessories designed solely for it. The MIL-Spec buffer tube compatibility allows for use with a variety of aftermarket buffer tubes and springs.
The stock’s sling attachment points are compatible with most standard sling types. It can be used with various optics, and the adjustable cheek riser helps optimize eye relief. While not a dedicated customization platform, it offers a solid foundation for building a more ergonomic rifle setup.
Pros and Cons of VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN
Pros
- Adjustable cheek riser for improved optic alignment and shooting comfort.
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- MIL-Spec compatibility ensures easy installation on most AR-15 platforms.
- Integrated QD sling swivel attachment points and sling loops for versatile sling options.
- Rubber butt pad for enhanced comfort and recoil mitigation.
Cons
- Polymer construction feels less durable than higher-end stocks.
- Latch mechanism may be less robust than premium alternatives.
- Rubber butt pad can be somewhat slick after extended use.
Who Should Buy VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN?
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN is perfect for recreational shooters and budget-minded individuals. It’s a solid upgrade for those seeking improved cheek weld and optic alignment without breaking the bank. It can also be beneficial for hunters who use a variety of optics.
Those who require extreme durability or demand the highest level of performance should consider higher-end stocks from manufacturers like Magpul or BCM. Those who expect to abuse their gear may want to avoid this product.
A quality sling would be a must-have accessory to take advantage of the stock’s sling attachment options. A MIL-Spec buffer tube assembly, if not already owned, is also required for installation.
Conclusion on VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN
The VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN offers a compelling value proposition for shooters seeking an affordable and adjustable stock. While it may not match the build quality of premium options, it provides tangible improvements in comfort and optic alignment. The low price makes it accessible to many.
The price is justified considering the features and functionality offered. You get a customizable cheek riser and improved ergonomics compared to a basic stock for under $30.
I would personally recommend the VISM by NcSTAR TBS TACTICAL MIL-SPEC STOCK/ W/ CHEEK RISER/ TAN to budget-conscious shooters looking for a decent upgrade. It is a solid option. Don’t hesitate – enhance your shooting experience today with this stock!