Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple Review

Let’s Dive into Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple

The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple is more than just a splash of color; it’s a serious upgrade in comfort and control for your AR platform. Manufactured by Hogue, known for their quality rubber overmolded products, this kit promises enhanced ergonomics and reduced recoil. The combination of a collapsible buttstock and finger groove beavertail grip aims to provide a superior shooting experience, especially in demanding conditions.

I’ve always been a function-over-form guy, but my wife has a different opinion; she wanted to customize her AR-15/22 platform. She wanted something that fit her smaller hands better and also matched her… unique sense of style.

Opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the rubber overmolding. It seemed durable and provided a very tactile surface. The purple hue was vibrant and consistent across both the stock and the grip, definitely an eye-catching upgrade.

Compared to Magpul’s MOE line, which I’ve used extensively, the Hogue kit felt less like hard polymer and more like a cushioned extension of the rifle. I also considered a BCM Gunfighter stock, but the Hogue’s rubberized grip and unique color option ultimately won me over for this specific project.

My first impression was surprise mixed with cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for improved comfort, but also a little wary about whether the purple color would be too flashy.


Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple on my wife’s Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 at my local outdoor range. The weather was mildly humid, which often makes gripping polymer stocks a bit slippery.

The Hogue grip immediately stood out, providing a secure and comfortable hold even with slightly sweaty hands. The finger grooves instinctively guided my hand into the correct position, offering a significant improvement over the standard A2 grip.

Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with basic AR-15 tools. The buttstock adjustment was smooth, though it required a bit more deliberate force than some other stocks I’ve used, suggesting a tighter, more secure fit.

I didn’t experience any major issues during the initial range session, but I did notice that the rubber overmolding attracted some dust and debris, which required occasional wiping.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of cracking or peeling in the rubber overmolding.

The purple finish remains vibrant, showing no signs of fading despite exposure to sunlight and cleaning solvents. The stock continues to adjust smoothly, maintaining a solid lock-up in each position.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth usually removes most of the surface dust and grime. Compared to the original stock and grip, which felt slick and somewhat cheap, the Hogue kit offers a substantial improvement in both comfort and perceived quality.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple

Specifications

  • The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple includes a collapsible buttstock and a finger groove beavertail grip. The stock fits both commercial and MIL-Spec buffer tubes.
  • The grip features Hogue’s signature rubber overmolding. This enhances comfort and provides a secure grip in various conditions.
  • The buttstock has three QD sling swivel attachment points. This allows for versatile sling configurations.
  • The kit is designed to fit AR-15/M16 platforms. This makes it a broad upgrade option.
  • It’s manufactured in the USA by Hogue. This provides assurance of a quality build.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the rifle’s handling, comfort, and adaptability. The rubber overmolding provides a tactile advantage, while the QD sling points enhance practical use. The fit on both commercial and MIL-Spec tubes allows for broad application, but users must confirm their tube spec before installing.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple enhances both the comfort and control of the AR-15 platform. The rubber overmolding effectively reduces felt recoil.

The finger grooves on the grip promote a consistent and secure hand placement. This leads to improved trigger control.

However, the snug fit of the stock on the buffer tube, while positive for stability, can make adjustments slightly stiffer compared to looser-fitting stocks. While some may find the vivid purple color appealing, others might find it too flashy or unconventional for tactical applications. The grip is comfortable, but can be difficult to clean when extremely dirty.

The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple largely exceeds expectations. It provides an exceptional upgrade in ergonomics and aesthetics for a reasonable price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple is excellent. The rubber overmolding is seamlessly integrated with the underlying polymer structure.

The kit feels solid and well-balanced in hand. The beavertail grip fills the web of the hand comfortably, promoting a higher and more secure grip.

There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the stock, as it requires a more deliberate press of the adjustment lever. But overall, the design is user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

With normal use and proper care, the Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple should last for many years. The rubber overmolding is resistant to most common solvents and oils used in firearms maintenance.

Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove dirt and grime. The durable construction and ease of maintenance ensure long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple does not come with additional accessories beyond the stock and grip. However, the three QD sling swivel attachment points on the stock allow for a variety of sling configurations.

The grip is compatible with most aftermarket AR-15 trigger guards and safety selectors. This allows for further customization of the rifle’s ergonomics and functionality. Users can also replace the buffer tube assembly to suit their specific needs, whether commercial or MIL-Spec.

Pros and Cons of Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple

Pros

  • Exceptional Comfort: The rubber overmolding and finger grooves provide a superior grip and reduce felt recoil.
  • Enhanced Control: Promotes consistent hand placement for improved trigger control.
  • Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements.
  • Easy Installation: Drop-in replacement for standard AR-15 stocks and grips.
  • Unique Aesthetics: The purple finish adds a distinctive touch to any AR-15 build.

Cons

  • Stock Adjustment Can Be Stiff: The snug fit on the buffer tube can make stock adjustments slightly difficult.
  • Color May Not Appeal to All: The vibrant purple finish may not be suitable for all users or applications.


Who Should Buy Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple?

The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple is perfect for AR-15 owners seeking improved comfort, control, and a touch of personalization. It is especially well-suited for shooters with smaller hands or those who prefer a more tactile grip surface. This would also be a great choice for women who enjoy shooting and want to customize their rifle with a unique color.

Those prioritizing a low-profile or tactical aesthetic should skip this product, as the purple finish is decidedly non-traditional. Users with very large hands may also find the finger grooves constricting.

A quality single-point or two-point sling would be a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the stock’s QD attachment points. A lightweight, modular free-float handguard would further enhance the rifle’s ergonomics and customization potential.

Conclusion on Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple

The Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple is a well-designed and executed upgrade for any AR-15 platform. It’s much more than just a pretty color.

The price is justified by the enhanced comfort, improved control, and durable construction. The Hogue kit offers a tangible improvement in the overall shooting experience.

I would personally recommend this kit to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-15 with a touch of personality and a significant boost in ergonomics. If you’re ready to take your AR-15 to the next level of comfort and style, the Hogue AR-15/M16 Collapsible Buttstock Kit With Finger Groove Beavertail Grip Purple is an excellent choice!

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