The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black immediately struck me as a potential solution to a long-standing problem with my shotgun. Achieving consistent cheek weld and recoil management has always been a challenge. The promise of an adjustable cheek rest and rubber butt pad offered a glimmer of hope for improved accuracy and comfort.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a shotgun stock that truly fits my build and shooting style. Many factory stocks are either too short or too long, leading to awkward positioning and inconsistent accuracy. I was seeking a solution that would allow for fine-tuning and personalized comfort, something the Emperor Arms MXP12 seemed to offer.
Unboxing the Emperor Arms MXP12, my initial impression was one of solid, functional design. The composite polymer felt robust, while the black finish gave it a tactical appearance. The adjustable cheek rest moved smoothly, and the rubber butt pad had a reassuring amount of give.
Compared to the standard, fixed stock on my Remington 870 and a collapsible AR-style stock I experimented with briefly, the Emperor Arms MXP12 stood out due to its adjustability. The AR-style stock felt flimsy on a shotgun, and the fixed stock offered no customization. This one promised personalized fit and enhanced recoil absorption.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if the promise of enhanced comfort and adjustability translated into improved performance on the range. At a price point of $39.99, it felt like a worthwhile gamble to potentially enhance my shotgun’s ergonomics.
Real-World Testing: Putting Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the shotgun equipped with the Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black to my local shooting range. The range offered both static targets and a clay pigeon course, giving me a chance to test it in different scenarios. The weather was clear but brisk, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
The initial adjustment of the cheek rest took a bit of fiddling, but once dialed in, the difference was immediately noticeable. My eye lined up perfectly with the bead sight, creating a much more natural and repeatable shooting position. Recoil felt noticeably reduced compared to the factory stock.
There were no significant issues during the first outing, although the adjustment mechanism for the cheek rest seemed a bit stiff. It took more force than I expected to raise and lower it. Overall, the initial impression was positive, with the enhanced cheek weld leading to improved accuracy on both static targets and clay pigeons.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Emperor Arms MXP12 has held up surprisingly well. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through my shotgun with this stock installed. The polymer construction shows no signs of cracking or stress.
Minor wear and tear are visible on the butt pad, but nothing unexpected considering the amount of use. The adjustment mechanism, while still a bit stiff, has loosened up slightly over time. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous experience with basic factory stocks, the Emperor Arms MXP12 is a significant improvement. It offers a level of customization and comfort that far surpasses the standard setup. While not as robust as some high-end aftermarket options, it delivers impressive performance for its price.
Breaking Down the Features of Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black
Specifications
The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black is a butt stock designed for shotguns, primarily the popular Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 platforms (although compatibility should be verified). The stock is constructed from composite polymer, offering a balance of durability and weight reduction. It features a non-slip rubber butt pad to help mitigate recoil and improve shoulder grip.
The stock includes slots for sling mounting, providing versatility for carrying the shotgun in various tactical or hunting scenarios. The standout feature is the enhanced adjustable cheek weld, which allows the user to customize the height of the cheek rest for optimal sight alignment. It comes in a black finish. These features contribute to a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shotgun’s handling, recoil management, and accuracy. The adjustable cheek rest allows shooters of different sizes and builds to achieve a consistent cheek weld, leading to improved sight alignment. The rubber butt pad helps to absorb recoil, reducing fatigue and improving follow-up shots. The sling mounting points offer flexibility for carrying the shotgun in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black performs its job admirably, significantly improving the shotgun’s ergonomics and shootability. The adjustable cheek rest is a game-changer, allowing for a customized fit that enhances accuracy. The rubber butt pad effectively mitigates recoil, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable.
The main strength of the stock is its adjustability and ease of installation. The cheek rest can be quickly adjusted to suit different shooters or shooting styles. One area for improvement would be the stiffness of the adjustment mechanism. It requires more force than ideal, especially when making adjustments in the field.
Overall, the Emperor Arms MXP12 meets and slightly exceeds expectations for its price point. It delivers a noticeable improvement in comfort and accuracy compared to standard factory stocks. However, the adjustment mechanism could benefit from refinement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Emperor Arms MXP12 features a practical and functional design. The composite polymer construction feels solid and durable, while remaining relatively lightweight. The weight distribution feels balanced, and the stock is comfortable to hold for extended periods.
The stock is reasonably user-friendly, although adjusting the cheek rest takes some initial experimentation. Once dialed in, the fit is excellent. The sling mounting points are well-placed and allow for easy attachment of a sling.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the polymer construction, the Emperor Arms MXP12 should last for many years with proper care. It is resistant to most weather conditions and solvents.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. No specialized tools or cleaning products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black does not come with any accessories beyond the stock itself. However, its design allows for some degree of customization.
The sling mounting points are compatible with a wide range of slings from various brands. Some users may choose to add a cheek rest pad for added comfort. Compatibility with aftermarket recoil pads designed for standard shotgun stocks should also be verified before purchase.
Pros and Cons of Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black
Pros
- The adjustable cheek rest provides a customized fit for improved accuracy and comfort.
- The rubber butt pad effectively reduces recoil, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable.
- The composite polymer construction offers a good balance of durability and weight.
- Easy installation allows for quick and simple upgrades to existing shotguns.
- The affordable price makes it an accessible upgrade for budget-conscious shooters.
Cons
- The cheek rest adjustment mechanism can be stiff and difficult to operate.
- The polymer construction may not be as robust as some higher-end aftermarket stocks.
Who Should Buy Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black?
The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black is perfect for shotgun owners looking for an affordable and effective upgrade to their existing stock. It’s particularly well-suited for hunters, recreational shooters, and those seeking improved comfort and accuracy. It’s also a good option for shooters with different body types who struggle to find a comfortable cheek weld with standard stocks.
This product might not be the best choice for those who require extreme durability or are willing to invest in a higher-end aftermarket stock with more advanced features. Additionally, those who prefer the traditional look and feel of a wooden stock may find the polymer construction unappealing.
A must-have accessory would be a quality sling, to take advantage of the built-in sling mounting points. A cheek rest pad could also enhance comfort during extended shooting sessions.
Conclusion on Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black
The Emperor Arms MXP12 Cheek Rest Stock Buffer Polymer Black offers a compelling value proposition for shotgun owners seeking improved comfort and accuracy. The adjustable cheek rest and rubber butt pad are significant upgrades over standard factory stocks, enhancing both ergonomics and recoil management. While the adjustment mechanism could be smoother, the overall performance and durability are impressive for the price.
The price of $39.99 is certainly justified given the benefits it provides. It is an affordable upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in a shotgun’s handling and shootability.
I would personally recommend the Emperor Arms MXP12 to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s ergonomics without breaking the bank. Its adjustability, recoil reduction, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for both recreational shooters and hunters alike. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a comfortable and customizable stock can make!