Let’s Talk About Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock
The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock offers a modern alternative to the traditional wooden stock found on the SKS rifle. Manufactured by Choate Tool, this stock promises enhanced ergonomics and durability for SKS owners seeking an upgrade.
My journey to this particular stock began with a general dissatisfaction with the factory SKS furniture. The original wood felt clunky, the length of pull was too short for my frame, and frankly, I wasn’t a fan of the aesthetics.
Upon unboxing the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock, I immediately noticed the difference in weight compared to the original wood stock. The fiber-reinforced polymer felt solid and well-molded, with a clean, untextured black finish.
I considered the ATI folding stock and the Tapco Intrafuse system before settling on the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock. The ATI felt flimsy and the Tapco felt too “tactical” for what I wanted. The Choate Tool offering appeared to strike a balance between modern functionality and classic aesthetics.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The stock felt good in my hands, but I was eager to see how it would perform on the range and how much fitting it would require.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was slightly damp, but nothing that would seriously affect handling. The new stock transformed the feel of the SKS.
The longer length of pull immediately improved my shooting posture and comfort. I experienced a noticeable improvement in handling, making target acquisition more comfortable and natural. Initial concerns about potential slippage due to the lack of aggressive texturing were unfounded, as the polymer provided sufficient grip, even with slightly damp hands.
The first-time installation required some minor fitting, contrary to what I’d hoped. I had to carefully file down some material around the receiver area to achieve a flush fit. Despite this, the process was relatively straightforward, and the included instructions, extra pins, spring and shims were invaluable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a few hundred rounds downrange, the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock has proven its worth. It has held up admirably to regular use, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear.
The polymer material resists scratches and minor impacts well. Cleaning is a breeze, typically requiring just a wipe down with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket SKS stocks, the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is a clear winner. It offers superior ergonomics, decent durability, and a much cleaner aesthetic than other options I’ve tried.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock
Specifications
- The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is constructed from high-quality fiber-reinforced polymer. This material provides a good balance of durability and weight.
- It features a standard 13 5/8″ length of pull. This longer length caters to larger framed shooters compared to the original SKS stock.
- The stock is designed for the SKS rifle and is available in black. It gives the rifle a more modern appearance.
- A ventilated handguard is included. This promotes cooling and provides a better grip.
- The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is proudly made in the USA. This ensures quality control and supports American manufacturing.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the rifle’s handling, comfort, and overall reliability. The longer length of pull improves ergonomics for many shooters, while the polymer construction offers enhanced durability and weather resistance compared to wood.
Performance & Functionality
The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock enhances the SKS’s overall performance by improving ergonomics and handling. The longer length of pull allows for a more comfortable and stable shooting position.
Its main strengths are its improved ergonomics, durability, and relatively easy installation. A weakness is that some fitting may be required, and the sling swivels could be of a higher quality. Overall, it meets my expectations and provides a significant upgrade over the original stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is decent, featuring a solid polymer construction that feels robust. The stock feels comfortable in hand, but the lack of aggressive texturing might be a concern for some users in very wet conditions.
The design is user-friendly. Some minor fitting may be required.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer material of the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple. It requires only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock includes a ventilated handguard, extra pins, spring and shims. There are no built-in accessory rails.
While the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the SKS platform has numerous aftermarket accessories available. These include optics mounts, magazines, and trigger upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock
Pros
- Improved ergonomics due to the longer length of pull, providing a more comfortable shooting experience.
- Enhanced durability with its high-quality, fiber-reinforced polymer construction.
- Affordable price point offering excellent value for the money.
- Made in the USA, ensuring a degree of quality control and supporting domestic manufacturing.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep in good condition.
Cons
- Some fitting may be required for proper installation, potentially posing a challenge for novice users.
- Basic sling swivels, which may not be the most robust or well-centered option.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock?
The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is perfect for SKS owners seeking a more comfortable and durable stock. It is a great choice for recreational shooters and hunters who want to improve the ergonomics and handling of their rifle without breaking the bank.
Those who prefer a truly “drop-in” solution with no fitting required or those who want a highly tactical stock with accessory rails might want to skip this product. A must-have modification is a good quality sling to replace the stock sling swivels.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock
The Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock is a worthwhile upgrade for the SKS rifle. It delivers improved ergonomics, decent durability, and a clean look at an affordable price.
At $79.99, the price is justified given the improvements in handling and durability it provides. I would personally recommend the Choate Tool Sks Conventional Stock to anyone looking to modernize their SKS without sacrificing its classic appeal. Upgrade your SKS today and experience the difference!