First Thoughts on the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight
The lever action rifle. It’s an American icon, a symbol of the Old West, and a capable firearm that still holds its own today. But let’s face it, the traditional wood stocks can feel a bit… dated. That’s where the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight comes in, promising to bring this classic design into the 21st century. I was intrigued, but also wary; could a modern stock truly enhance, and not detract from, the lever action experience?
My decision to explore this stock stemmed from a desire for greater adjustability. The fixed length of pull on my Winchester 94 made it less than ideal for longer shooting sessions. The Midwest Industries offering boasted an adjustable cheek piece and M-LOK compatibility, features that addressed my specific needs.
Unboxing the stock, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the polymer. It felt robust and well-molded, a clear step up from some of the cheaper aftermarket options I’d encountered. The straight design felt natural in my hands.
I considered a few alternatives, including some traditional wood replacements and other polymer options. I chose the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight due to its combination of adjustability and the Midwest Industries reputation for quality. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The stock looked good, felt good, and promised to address my specific needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight was at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, perfect conditions for testing. Installation was surprisingly straightforward.
The polymer cheek piece provided immediate comfort and adjustability. Acquiring a proper sight picture was now faster and more natural. The M-LOK slots allowed me to easily attach a sling, significantly improving the rifle’s carry-ability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The polymer has proven to be remarkably durable, resisting scratches and impacts.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. It certainly outperforms the original wood stock in terms of weather resistance and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight is designed as a drop-in replacement for Winchester lever action rifles. The polymer cheek piece provides adjustability for optimal eye alignment. The stock is ambidextrous, catering to both left and right-handed shooters.
It maintains the factory length of pull, preserving the original feel of the rifle. M-LOK compatible slots allow for the attachment of accessories. This adds significant versatility to the classic platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight dramatically improves the ergonomics of the Winchester lever action. The adjustable cheek piece ensures a comfortable and consistent cheek weld. This leads to improved accuracy and faster target acquisition.
The M-LOK compatibility allows for the attachment of lights, lasers, and other accessories. This significantly enhances the rifle’s functionality in various scenarios. While the straight design might not appeal to everyone aesthetically, it provides a solid and stable shooting platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The polymer feels robust and durable. The weight is comparable to the original wood stock. The grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold.
The stock is user-friendly. Installation is straightforward and requires minimal tools. The adjustable cheek piece is easy to adjust.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight is built to last. The polymer is resistant to impacts, scratches, and weather. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
The stock should provide years of reliable service under normal use conditions. This makes it a worthwhile investment for any Winchester lever action owner.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight comes with the stock itself and the adjustable cheek piece. The primary customization option is the addition of M-LOK compatible accessories. This includes slings, lights, lasers, and foregrips.
The stock is compatible with most standard M-LOK accessories. This allows for a high degree of personalization. The ability to tailor the rifle to specific needs is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight
Pros
- Provides adjustable cheek piece for improved comfort and sight alignment.
- Offers M-LOK compatibility for accessory attachment.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left and right-handed shooters.
- Maintains factory length of pull for a familiar feel.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- The straight stock design might not appeal to those who prefer the traditional curved stock aesthetic.
- The $240.49 price point may be prohibitive for some budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight?
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight is perfect for hunters who want to improve the ergonomics and functionality of their lever action rifle. It is also a great choice for competitive shooters who need a more adjustable and customizable platform. Tactical shooters looking to modernize their lever gun will also appreciate this stock.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer the traditional look and feel of a wood stock. Also, those on a very tight budget might find the price too high.
A must-have accessory would be a quality M-LOK compatible sling. This will significantly improve the rifle’s carry-ability in the field. A forward M-LOK mounted light or laser will also enhance functionality in low-light conditions.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight
The Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight is a well-designed and durable upgrade for the classic Winchester lever action rifle. The adjustable cheek piece and M-LOK compatibility significantly improve the rifle’s ergonomics and functionality. While the straight design might not appeal to everyone, it provides a solid and stable shooting platform.
The $240.49 price is justified by the quality of the materials and the added functionality. I would personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to modernize their Winchester lever action. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your shooting experience. If you’re ready to bring your lever gun into the 21st century, give the Midwest Industries Lever Stock Winchester Straight a try!