First Impressions of A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock
The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock promises to be a game-changer for firearm customization. This stock boasts a minimalist design, an ultra-lightweight build, and compatibility with a wide range of platforms via its Picatinny mounting interface.
I was drawn to this product to address the bulkiness of traditional stocks on my SBR. I needed a compact and adjustable solution without sacrificing stability or usability. The A3 Industries stock immediately caught my eye with its promise of adding only 2 inches when fully collapsed and its adjustable vertical offset. I anxiously anticipated the moment I could finally put my hands on the Modular Telescoping Stock.
Unboxing the A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock, I was immediately impressed with the evident quality of the materials and construction. The 6061 aluminum components felt robust yet lightweight, and the Melonite-coated steel rods exuded durability. Compared to bulkier stocks from Magpul and BCM, this option felt significantly more streamlined. I chose this over other options because of its promise of minimal length when collapsed and the ability to adjust the vertical offset to suit my optic setup.
I was incredibly excited, confident that this stock would transform the handling and concealability of my firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my custom AR-9 pistol with a Picatinny rail adapter. The weather was pleasant, but the ground was dusty, presenting a mild challenge for the stock’s moving parts.
The stock proved surprisingly intuitive to use. It needed no getting used to. The push-button release mechanism was smooth and reliable, allowing for quick adjustments between the length settings. The collapsed position allowed me to maneuver the firearm in tight spaces, a feature that was instantly valuable.
However, I noticed some grit accumulating on the steel rods after several adjustments in the dusty environment, requiring a quick wipe down.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock has proven to be a reliable addition to my setup. There are no signs of critical wear and tear. The Melonite finish on the steel rods has prevented rust and minimized scratching.
Regular cleaning with a brush and lubricant keeps the telescoping mechanism functioning smoothly. It has significantly outperformed my previous brace in terms of stability and adjustability.
Breaking Down the Features of A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock
Specifications
- The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock is designed for firearms with a rear Picatinny (1913) rail interface. It ensures universal compatibility across a diverse range of platforms.
- Machined from 6061 aluminum, the mounting components offer a great balance of strength and weight, keeping the stock incredibly light at just 9.3 oz. The rods are made from 3/8″ steel that is Melonite-coated for wear and corrosion resistance.
- The stock adds only 2.00″ to the firearm’s overall length when fully collapsed. This makes it one of the most compact telescoping stock options available.
- The stock can be mounted in two vertical positions, 1″ apart. This allows for optimizing sight alignment and avoiding interference with ejection ports or charging handles.
Performance & Functionality
The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock excels in its primary function of providing a stable and adjustable platform. It allows the shooter to customize the length of pull for optimal comfort and control. The stock’s lightweight design doesn’t negatively impact the firearm’s balance.
The push-button length adjustment mechanism is intuitive and robust, offering either 3 or 4 length settings depending on the rod length chosen. One minor area for improvement is refining the locking mechanism to minimize any potential wobble, though the current system is quite secure. It significantly exceeded my expectations for a compact stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock features a minimalist aesthetic that prioritizes function over form. It provides enhanced ergonomics compared to fixed stock options.
The stock’s lightweight design enhances maneuverability, and the adjustable vertical offset is a thoughtful touch for optimizing sight alignment. There’s a slight learning curve in fine-tuning the vertical offset, but once set, it provides a noticeable improvement in sight picture.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of 6061 aluminum and Melonite-coated steel ensures that the A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock is built to last. The coating offers significant wear resistance.
Maintenance primarily involves cleaning the steel rods and applying a light lubricant to maintain smooth operation. The stock’s simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean. The robust materials and finish suggest a long service life with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock offers a choice of 4 different buttplates, catering to different preferences for comfort and recoil absorption. It also has a choice of 3 different rod lengths.
The Picatinny mounting interface allows for easy integration with a wide variety of firearms, including bufferless ARs, B&T APCs, CZ Scorpions, HK MP5s, and more. Aftermarket sling adapters and cheek risers can be easily added to the Picatinny rail, enhancing the stock’s versatility.
Pros and Cons of A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock
Pros
- Extremely compact: Adds only 2.00″ to overall length when collapsed.
- Lightweight: Minimalist design keeps weight to a minimum at 9.3oz.
- Adjustable vertical offset: Provides 1″ of vertical adjustment for optimal sight alignment.
- Durable construction: Made from 6061 aluminum and Melonite-coated steel.
- Wide compatibility: Fits any firearm with a rear Picatinny rail.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to some other stock options.
- Minimalist design may not appeal to users seeking a more traditional stock feel.
Who Should Buy A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock?
The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock is perfect for firearm owners seeking a compact, lightweight, and adjustable stock solution. It is well-suited for SBR/pistol builds, PDWs, and users prioritizing maneuverability and concealability. The adjustability in vertical offset benefits those with diverse optic setups or cheek weld preferences.
This product may not be ideal for those seeking a traditional stock feel or those on a very tight budget.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality Picatinny sling adapter for enhanced weapon retention.
Conclusion on A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock
The A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock is a well-engineered and high-performing accessory that delivers on its promises. Its compact design, lightweight construction, and adjustable features make it a standout in the crowded stock market.
At $299.95, the price is a consideration, but the quality, performance, and versatility justify the investment for users seeking a premium stock solution.
I would highly recommend the A3 Industries Universal Picatinny Mount – Modular Telescoping Stock to anyone looking to enhance the handling and concealability of their firearm. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference a truly minimalist and modular stock can make!