FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold Review

First Thoughts on the FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold

The FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold is designed to enhance the maneuverability of your rifle. It’s an upgrade intended for GL-SHOCK, GL-MAG, or GK-MAG buttstocks, and promises faster target acquisition in close quarters. This butt pad caught my attention because I’ve been tweaking my CQB setup for speed and comfort, and the stock butt plate felt like a weak link.

For years, I’ve dealt with standard buttstocks that slip and slide during rapid transitions. I needed a solution offering better grip and shoulder positioning, especially while wearing body armor. The promise of a textured rubber overmold and non-slip surface immediately intrigued me, leading me to choose the FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad. It seemed like a cost-effective solution.

Unboxing revealed a simple, yet seemingly robust, piece of kit. The polymer felt dense and the rubber overmold had a reassuringly tactile feel. The build quality appeared solid, lacking any noticeable flaws or imperfections.

Compared to a basic mil-spec butt plate or even some enhanced polymer options, the FAB Defense pad immediately offered a more aggressive profile. I chose this over a thicker, recoil-reducing pad because I prioritize speed and maneuverability over recoil absorption in a CQB environment. I was excited to see if this little upgrade would translate to a noticeable improvement on the range.

Initial impressions were positive, although a little apprehensive if the rubber overmold would truly provide that non-slip stability that I was looking for. The FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold feels like a focused upgrade for a specific purpose, and I was eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold at my local indoor range. I focused on drills involving rapid target transitions and shooting from unconventional positions. The range offered a controlled environment to evaluate its grip and shoulder positioning capabilities.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The rubber overmold truly provided a secure contact point, even when my kit was damp from the range’s AC system. Maintaining a solid cheek weld and consistent shoulder positioning became easier and more intuitive.

I didn’t experience any slipping or shifting, even during rapid firing sequences. This was a welcome change from the standard butt plate. No issues arose during the first use; the installation was straightforward, and the pad performed as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and a weekend-long force-on-force training course, the FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold continues to impress. It has held up remarkably well to the rigors of both range practice and more intense simulated combat scenarios.

Durability has proven to be a strong point. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the polymer or the rubber overmold. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it looking and performing its best.

Compared to my previous experiences with slick polymer butt plates, the FAB Defense pad is a significant improvement. It provides a more stable and consistent platform, resulting in faster target acquisition and improved accuracy. It definitely exceeded my expectations for a $20 upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold

Specifications

The FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold is constructed from reinforced polymer composite. This keeps the weight down while maintaining structural integrity. The textured rubber overmold provides a non-slip surface for enhanced stability.

It’s specifically designed for compatibility with FAB Defense’s GL-SHOCK, GL-MAG, and GK-MAG buttstocks. The black finish ensures a low profile and professional appearance. The specific dimensions are designed to optimize shoulder positioning, particularly when wearing body armor.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the rifle’s handling and ergonomics. The reinforced polymer ensures durability. The rubber overmold maximizes grip. The precise fit guarantees a secure and wobble-free attachment to compatible stocks.

Performance & Functionality

The FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold excels at providing a stable and consistent shoulder platform. Its primary function is to enhance maneuverability and speed up target acquisition, and it delivers on both fronts. I have found improved weapon control and stability.

The strengths lie in its exceptional grip and comfortable shoulder positioning. The only potential weakness might be that it does not offer any recoil reduction compared to a thicker, cushioned pad. Overall, it far exceeds expectations for such a budget-friendly upgrade.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The materials feel robust and well-suited for the intended purpose. The weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.

It is extremely user-friendly. Installation is simple. The ergonomic design promotes a natural and comfortable shooting posture.

Durability & Maintenance

The FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold is built to last. The reinforced polymer and durable rubber overmold can withstand considerable abuse. The design ensures long-term reliability.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. No special tools or solvents are needed. The simple design facilitates straightforward maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold doesn’t require any specific accessories. It’s a standalone upgrade designed to enhance the existing buttstock. It replaces the existing butt plate on compatible FAB Defense stocks.

While there are no direct customization options for the pad itself, its compatibility with GL-SHOCK, GL-MAG, and GK-MAG stocks opens up a range of other possibilities. Owners can further customize their rifles with different stock configurations. The aftermarket support for these stocks is extensive, allowing for further personalization.

Pros and Cons of FAB Defense ARP Assault Butt Pad Black Polymer w/Rubber Overmold