First Thoughts on the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga aims to bring modularity and improved ergonomics to the venerable Saiga platform. Offered by [Manufacturer Name, if available, otherwise omit], this injection-molded stock promises enhanced adjustability and recoil mitigation, addressing common complaints about the factory Saiga setup. I was particularly interested in the promise of customizable length-of-pull, as I’ve always struggled to find a comfortable shooting position with the standard stock on my Saiga 12.
My Saiga, a trusty but somewhat unwieldy shotgun, has always felt like it could benefit from a more modern, adaptable stock. The original stock felt too long for me, especially when wearing heavy clothing or tactical gear. I considered several options, including folding stocks and other adjustable designs, but the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga stood out due to its simplicity, reasonable price point, and the promise of robust construction using glass-filled nylon. Other contenders included stocks from Tapco and ATI, but the reported durability of the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga‘s material swayed me.
Unboxing the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga, I was immediately struck by the solid feel of the polymer. It felt significantly more robust than the factory plastic stock it would be replacing. The pistol grip had a comfortable texture, and the length-of-pull adjustment mechanism seemed smooth and positive. My initial excitement was tempered only slightly by a minor molding imperfection near the butt pad, but overall, the build quality appeared promising. I was cautiously optimistic that this stock would improve the handling and overall shooting experience with my Saiga.
Real-World Testing: Putting Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga at my local shooting range, a mix of indoor and outdoor bays. The range offered a variety of targets, from paper silhouettes to steel plates, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the stock’s performance. I ran several boxes of 12-gauge through my Saiga, focusing on quick target acquisition and smooth transitions between targets.
The adjustable length-of-pull proved immediately beneficial. I was able to quickly find a comfortable setting that allowed for a more natural cheek weld and improved sight alignment. Even in slightly damp conditions, the pistol grip provided a secure and confident hold. The recoil pad noticeably reduced felt recoil, making longer shooting sessions more manageable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my Saiga. It has seen action in various conditions, including dusty outdoor ranges and even a rainy hunting trip. The glass-filled nylon construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s required to remove dirt and grime. Compared to the original stock, which always felt a bit flimsy, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga offers a significant improvement in durability and overall feel. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga
Specifications
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga is injection molded from premium glass-filled nylon. This material offers a good balance of strength, durability, and weight. It features a pistol grip and a 6-position adjustable stock, providing length-of-pull adjustments from 10.5″ to 14.75″.
The stock is designed to fit Saiga shotguns/rifles in a “factory” setup, meaning those that have not been converted to accept standard AK furniture. Installation hardware is included, simplifying the process. The recoil absorbing butt pad helps to mitigate the “punch” felt from heavy shotgun loads. These specifications combine to deliver a stock that enhances user comfort and weapon control.
Performance & Functionality
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga excels at providing a more ergonomic and customizable shooting experience. The adjustable length-of-pull allows users of different sizes to find a comfortable fit, improving accuracy and control. The recoil pad effectively reduces felt recoil, especially noticeable with heavy loads.
While the stock performs admirably in most areas, the pistol grip could benefit from a slightly more aggressive texture for improved grip in very wet conditions. The stock meets my expectations, offering a significant improvement over the factory stock in terms of adjustability, comfort, and recoil mitigation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga boasts a simple yet functional design. The glass-filled nylon construction provides a robust and durable feel without adding excessive weight. The pistol grip is comfortable to hold for extended periods, and the adjustable stock mechanism operates smoothly.
The stock is relatively user-friendly. Installation is straightforward with the included hardware. While some minor adjustments may be needed to achieve optimal fit, the overall design is intuitive and requires minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga is built to last. The glass-filled nylon material is highly resistant to impact and abrasion. Regular maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime.
With proper care, the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga should provide years of reliable service. The simple design and robust construction minimize the risk of breakage or malfunction, making it a dependable upgrade for any Saiga owner.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary installation hardware. However, its compatibility with standard Saiga mounting points opens up a range of customization options. Sling attachment points are integrated into the stock, allowing for the use of various sling types.
While the stock itself does not directly support optic mounting, its improved ergonomics can indirectly enhance the effectiveness of mounted optics. It works well with common aftermarket Saiga accessories like side rails and magazine well extensions.
Pros and Cons of Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga
Pros
- Adjustable Length-of-Pull: Provides a comfortable fit for various body sizes and shooting styles.
- Recoil Absorbing Butt Pad: Significantly reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust glass-filled nylon for long-lasting performance.
- Improved Ergonomics: Offers a more natural and controllable shooting experience compared to the factory stock.
- Easy Installation: Installation hardware is included for straightforward setup.
Cons
- Pistol grip texture could be more aggressive for improved grip in wet conditions.
- Minor molding imperfections may be present on some units.
Who Should Buy Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga?
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga is perfect for Saiga owners looking to improve the ergonomics, comfort, and overall handling of their firearm. This stock is particularly beneficial for those who find the factory stock uncomfortable or too long. It’s a great upgrade for recreational shooters, hunters, and those who use their Saiga for home defense or tactical applications.
Those who should skip this product are Saiga owners who prefer the classic AK-style stock or those with Saigas that have already been significantly modified to accept standard AK furniture. Must-have accessories would include a high-quality sling and possibly a cheek riser for optimal optic alignment.
Conclusion on Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga
The Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga offers a significant improvement over the factory Saiga stock, providing enhanced adjustability, improved ergonomics, and noticeable recoil mitigation. The use of durable glass-filled nylon ensures long-lasting performance, and the straightforward installation process makes it an accessible upgrade for most Saiga owners.
At $71.99, the price is justified by the improved shooting experience and increased comfort. I would absolutely recommend the Field Series Tactical Stock – Saiga to anyone looking to modernize and optimize their Saiga platform. Upgrade your Saiga today and experience the difference a quality stock can make!