The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN Made a Bold First Impression
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN is more than just a buttstock; it’s a tactile upgrade that promises enhanced control and comfort for your AR platform. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve handled countless AR components, but the Hogue name always stands out for its commitment to quality and thoughtful design.
What brought me to this particular buttstock was the relentless search for a solution to the dreaded AR “rattle.” I was tired of the constant noise from my existing stock, especially when stalking game or moving in tactical scenarios. The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN’s rubber friction fit, advertised as an anti-rattle design, immediately piqued my interest.
My first impression upon unboxing was overwhelmingly positive. The tan color, described as FDE (Flat Dark Earth), was aesthetically pleasing and felt robust in my hands. The overmolded rubber gave it a premium feel, a welcome change from the hard, often cheap-feeling plastic stocks on the market.
I’ve previously used Magpul’s MOE stock and BCM’s Gunfighter stock on my AR builds. While both are solid choices, the Hogue stock offered a uniquely different tactile experience. The rubber overmold promised better grip and shock absorption.
I was genuinely excited about the potential of the Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN to deliver on its promises. The initial feel and appearance suggested a serious upgrade. This wasn’t just another accessory; it felt like a component designed for performance and comfort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN at my local shooting range during a practical rifle course. The course involved a lot of movement, transitioning between firing positions, and engaging targets at varying distances. It was the perfect setting to evaluate the stock’s anti-rattle feature and overall ergonomics.
The weather was slightly damp, which often makes gripping plastic stocks a challenge. The Hogue stock, however, performed admirably, providing a secure and comfortable grip even with slightly wet hands. The rubber overmold proved its worth.
Installation was a breeze, and the stock slid smoothly onto my commercial buffer tube. The shielded operation lever was easy to manipulate. There was a noticeable reduction in rattle compared to my previous stock, though not completely eliminated, it was significantly improved.
My initial impression was positive, but there were a few minor issues. The stock felt a little “sticky” when adjusting its length, likely due to the rubber friction fit. I found I needed to apply a bit more force than with my old stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I have used it in several range sessions, as well as during a weekend hunting trip.
The stock has held up well to regular use, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. The rubber overmold still feels secure and hasn’t started to peel or degrade. The color has remained consistent, even after exposure to sunlight and cleaning solvents.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I’ve also used a mild solvent to clean it after particularly dirty range sessions.
Compared to my previous experience with the Magpul MOE stock, the Hogue stock offers a more comfortable and secure grip. While the Magpul stock is lighter, the Hogue stock provides better recoil absorption and feels more stable during rapid fire. It offers a noticeable improvement in control.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN
Specifications
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN is designed for AR-15 platforms utilizing a commercial buffer tube. Its primary feature is the rubber overmolding, which provides a superior grip and shock absorption. The stock also features a shielded operation lever to prevent accidental adjustments.
It has swivel mounting positions allowing for versatile sling attachment options. The model reviewed has a Flat Dark Earth (FDE) finish. The key here is compatibility with commercial buffer tubes.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the user experience. The rubber overmold ensures a comfortable and secure grip, which is crucial for accuracy and control. The shielded lever prevents accidental stock adjustments, which can be disruptive during tactical operations.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN performs its job admirably, providing a stable and comfortable platform for shooting. The anti-rattle design minimizes noise and vibration. This makes it an excellent choice for hunters and tactical shooters who need to maintain stealth.
The stock’s strength lies in its comfortable grip and reduced noise. Its weakness is the slight stickiness during length adjustments. It would exceed expectations with a smoother adjustment mechanism.
Overall, it meets expectations as a quality aftermarket stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN features a well-thought-out design with ergonomics in mind. The rubber overmolding is strategically placed to provide maximum grip and comfort. Its weight is balanced to avoid excessive bulk, it feels substantial.
The shielded operation lever is a thoughtful addition, preventing accidental adjustments. The stock is generally user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment. There is a slight learning curve to the adjustment mechanism.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN is built to last, using high-quality materials and robust construction. The rubber overmolding is resistant to wear and tear. I expect it to last for many years of regular use.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to keep the stock clean and functional. It is easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket slings and sling mounts due to the swivel mounting positions.
The tan color can be easily matched with other FDE accessories, allowing for a customized look. Compatibility with various slings and sling mounts is a major advantage. It offers flexibility for customization.
Pros and Cons of Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN
Pros
- Superior grip and comfort due to the rubber overmold.
- Significant reduction in rattle compared to standard stocks.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Shielded operation lever prevents accidental adjustments.
- Versatile sling mounting options.
Cons
- Slightly sticky length adjustment mechanism.
- The FDE (tan) color might not match all existing setups perfectly.
Who Should Buy Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN?
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN is perfect for AR-15 owners looking to upgrade their stock for improved comfort, control, and noise reduction. It is ideally suited for hunters, tactical shooters, and anyone who values a quiet and stable shooting platform.
Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight builds or require a completely silent stock might want to explore other options. Also, those who prefer very rapid length-of-pull adjustments might find the “sticky” adjustment slightly annoying.
A quality sling is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN’s sling mounting options. A cheek riser might also be beneficial for those using optics with a higher mount.
Conclusion on Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN
The Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN is a worthwhile upgrade for any AR-15 owner seeking improved comfort, control, and noise reduction. The rubber overmold provides a superior grip. It offers a more stable shooting platform compared to standard stocks.
At a price of $59.46, the Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN offers excellent value for the money. It is a well-built and thoughtfully designed product that delivers on its promises.
I would personally recommend the Hogue AR OM COLL BUTTSTK C/M TAN to anyone looking to enhance their AR-15 experience. It is a solid investment that will improve your shooting comfort and accuracy. Upgrade your AR today.