Let’s Talk About Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit is a comprehensive solution for completing the back end of your AR-15 lower receiver. This kit includes everything needed: a Griffin AR-SOB buffer, a Griffin 7075-T6 Maritime Receiver Extension, a 17-7 wire spring, a latch plate, and a castle nut. It’s designed for AR15 family firearms and boasts compatibility with Mil-Spec dimensioned butt-stocks.
I’ve always prioritized optimizing recoil management and cyclic rate in my AR builds. The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit promised to offer a significant upgrade in these areas, prompting me to explore its capabilities. I picked this kit because it’s purported to be a complete, drop-in solution from a reputable manufacturer, saving me the hassle of piecing together individual components.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the components. The receiver extension felt robust, and the buffer had a substantial weight to it. The finish was clean and consistent across all parts, exuding confidence in the overall build quality.
I considered other similar kits from brands like BCM and Geissele, but ultimately chose the Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit due to its focus on suppressor compatibility and its specific SOB (Sons of Bitches) buffer design. I was looking for a kit specifically made to handle the increased back pressure of suppressed firearms, and the gas-venting design of this kit seemed ideal.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. The kit appeared well-made and ready to install, promising a noticeable improvement in my AR platform’s performance. I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit on my 11.5″ AR pistol at an outdoor shooting range. The conditions were dry and sunny, providing a good baseline for evaluation. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic AR-15 armorer’s tools.
The most noticeable difference was the reduced recoil impulse. The AR-SOB buffer definitely helped to smooth out the cycling of the action, making it easier to maintain accuracy during rapid fire. There were no malfunctions or issues experienced during the initial testing session.
Initially, I found the spring to be a bit “springy” or noisy. However, this was easily remedied with a generous application of white lithium grease, as suggested by other users. Beyond that, the kit performed flawlessly right out of the box.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has been used in various conditions, from dry desert environments to wet, humid climates, without any degradation in performance. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on any of the components.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. I’ve found that a quick wipe-down of the receiver extension and buffer during regular firearm maintenance is sufficient to keep everything running smoothly. This kit outperforms the standard Mil-Spec buffer and spring that I previously used.
Compared to my previous setup, the Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit provides a noticeably smoother and more controlled shooting experience. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and reliability. I have no complaints and would highly recommend it to other AR enthusiasts.
Breaking Down the Features of Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit
Specifications
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit includes:
- Griffin AR-SOB Buffer: This buffer is designed to reduce felt recoil and improve the cyclic rate of your AR-15. Its added weight and specific design contribute to smoother operation.
- Griffin 7075-T6 Maritime Receiver Extension: This extension tube is constructed from durable 7075-T6 aluminum and features drain holes for maritime use. These drain holes help vent gases and allow for water drainage.
- 17-7 Wire Spring: This spring provides consistent and reliable operation. It offers enhanced durability and a longer lifespan compared to standard springs.
- Latch Plate: This standard latch plate secures the receiver extension to the lower receiver.
- Castle Nut: This standard castle nut tightens down the receiver extension and can be staked to prevent loosening.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and reliability of the AR-15 platform. The AR-SOB buffer reduces felt recoil, improving shooter comfort and accuracy, especially during rapid fire. The 7075-T6 Maritime Receiver Extension provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, while the 17-7 wire spring ensures consistent cycling.
Performance & Functionality
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It effectively reduces felt recoil, smooths out the cycling of the action, and provides reliable operation. I have experienced no malfunctions or issues related to the kit, even after extensive use.
The kit’s strengths lie in its high-quality components and well-thought-out design. The AR-SOB buffer is particularly effective at taming recoil, making it easier to control the firearm. The only area for improvement is the initial “springy” noise of the spring, which is easily resolved with lubrication. The kit meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-performance AR-15 buffer system.
Design & Ergonomics
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit features a robust and well-engineered design. The materials used are of high quality, and the overall build quality is excellent. The kit’s weight is appropriate for its intended purpose, adding enough mass to reduce recoil without making the firearm feel overly heavy or unbalanced.
The kit is user-friendly and requires no specialized tools or expertise to install. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed in a matter of minutes with basic AR-15 armorer’s tools. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the kit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The kit is designed to be easy to maintain and repair.
The components are corrosion-resistant and can be easily cleaned with standard firearm cleaning solvents. Replacement parts, such as springs and buffers, are readily available if needed. With proper care and maintenance, this kit should provide many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit comes with all the necessary components for installation and operation. It does not include any additional accessories beyond what is listed in the specifications. The kit is compatible with any Mil-Spec dimensioned butt-stock, allowing for a wide range of customization options.
The kit is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as different types of castle nuts and endplates. The modular design of the AR-15 platform allows for a high degree of customization, making it easy to tailor the rifle to individual preferences. Griffin Armament also offers other accessories that complement this kit, such as their line of suppressors and muzzle devices.
Pros and Cons of Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit
Pros
- Significant reduction in felt recoil. The AR-SOB buffer noticeably reduces recoil impulse, improving shooter comfort and control.
- Smoother cycling of the action. The kit helps to smooth out the cycling of the bolt, resulting in more consistent and reliable operation.
- High-quality components and construction. The kit is made from durable materials and built to last.
- Easy to install and maintain. The kit is straightforward to install and requires minimal maintenance.
- Improved performance with suppressed firearms. The gas-venting design of the Maritime Receiver Extension makes it ideal for use with suppressors.
Cons
- Initial “springy” noise from the spring. This can be easily remedied with lubrication, but it’s worth noting.
- Castle nut end cap cracking during staking. One user reported this issue, suggesting caution during the staking process.
Who Should Buy Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit?
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit is perfect for:
- AR-15 owners looking to reduce felt recoil and improve the overall shooting experience.
- Shooters who frequently use suppressed firearms.
- Individuals building or upgrading their AR-15 platforms and seeking a high-quality, reliable buffer system.
- Competitive shooters seeking to improve their speed and accuracy.
This product might not be ideal for those seeking the absolute lightest weight components, as the AR-SOB buffer adds weight compared to standard buffers. Someone seeking only a basic, no-frills Mil-Spec replacement might find this kit overkill.
A must-have accessory to complement this kit is a quality anti-seize compound for the castle nut threads. This will help to prevent the nut from seizing and ensure easy removal in the future. A proper staking tool is also essential for securing the castle nut once it is properly torqued.
Conclusion on Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit
The Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit is an excellent upgrade for any AR-15 platform. It delivers on its promise of reducing felt recoil, smoothing out the cycling of the action, and providing reliable operation. The high-quality components and robust construction ensure that it will withstand the rigors of regular use.
The price is justified by the noticeable improvement in performance and the overall quality of the kit. The reduction in recoil and smoother cycling make it easier to control the firearm, resulting in improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
I would personally recommend the Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-15 buffer system. It is a worthwhile investment that will significantly enhance the shooting experience. If you are looking for a high-quality, reliable, and effective buffer system for your AR-15, look no further than the Griffin Armament Griffin Stock Mounting Kit. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference!