Let’s Talk About Strike Industries Pit Stock
The Strike Industries Pit Stock is a minimalist marvel designed for those who value compactness and weight reduction above all else. From Strike Industries, a company known for its innovative and often aggressively styled AR components, this stock aims to redefine what a stock needs to be. Is it right for everyone? Absolutely not. But for a specific set of users and builds, it offers a unique solution.
I was looking for a stock option that would minimize the overall length of an AR pistol build I was planning. Traditional stocks felt bulky and unnecessary for the intended purpose of this particular firearm, a compact and easily maneuverable platform. The Strike Industries Pit Stock immediately caught my eye due to its incredibly short length and skeletonized design.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was its sheer size – or lack thereof. Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, it feels incredibly robust despite its diminutive stature. The finish is clean and even, typical of Strike Industries products. My initial impression was one of intrigue; could something this small actually be functional and comfortable?
Compared to a standard M4 stock or even a minimalist stock from Magpul, the Pit Stock is in a different league altogether. The Law Tactical folding adapter was also considered, but added unwanted weight. I chose the Strike Industries Pit Stock for its unique balance of strength, minimal size, and weight savings. I was cautiously optimistic, knowing that its extreme design might not be for everyone, but hoping it would be perfect for this specific build.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Pit Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
The Strike Industries Pit Stock found its home on my 9mm AR pistol build, which I primarily tested at an indoor shooting range. Conditions were controlled, but the focus was on rapid target acquisition and close-quarters maneuverability. The stock’s compact size proved immediately beneficial in navigating tight shooting lanes.
I found the recoil management surprisingly effective, considering the stock’s size. The length of pull is very short, and takes some getting used to. After a few magazines, I started to appreciate the unique cheek weld and improved agility with the shorter platform.
The only issue I experienced during the first range session was the limited adjustability. The three-position adjustment, while functional, didn’t offer the fine-tuning that I’m accustomed to with a standard adjustable stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Strike Industries Pit Stock has proven surprisingly durable. There are no signs of cracks or deformation, despite regular use and occasional bumps against barricades and other range obstacles. The anodized finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches from normal wear and tear.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe down with a cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. Compared to my previous experiences with adjustable stocks that require periodic cleaning of the buffer tube and adjustment mechanism, the Pit Stock is a breeze to maintain. I appreciate its simplicity and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Pit Stock
Specifications
The Strike Industries Pit Stock boasts some impressive specifications that contribute to its unique design and functionality. It is specifically designed for AR-15 platforms. It requires the Strike Industries receiver extension (SI-AR-ARE-T7) for proper installation and function.
The stock weighs in at a mere 4 oz, making it one of the lightest options on the market. Its length is only 2.68 inches, contributing to an ultra-compact profile. Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, the stock is incredibly strong and durable despite its light weight. It also features a 3-position adjustability for length of pull. These specifications matter because they directly influence the rifle’s overall weight, balance, and maneuverability.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries Pit Stock performs admirably for its intended purpose: minimizing size and weight without sacrificing structural integrity. It provides a stable cheek weld and allows for effective recoil management, especially in pistol-caliber carbines. While the adjustability is limited compared to traditional stocks, the three positions offer enough variation to accommodate different shooting styles and body types.
The main strength lies in its compact size and lightweight construction, making it ideal for SBRs, AR pistols, and lightweight builds. The primary weakness is the limited adjustability, which may not be suitable for all users. Despite this limitation, it exceeds my expectations for a minimalist stock designed for a specific purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Pit Stock features a skeletonized design that contributes to its lightweight and aggressive aesthetics. The build quality is excellent, with clean lines and a smooth finish. Despite its minimalist design, the stock provides a surprisingly comfortable cheek weld.
There is virtually no learning curve, as the installation and operation are straightforward. The adjustment mechanism is simple and reliable, making it easy to change the length of pull on the fly. It’s a user-friendly design that prioritizes simplicity and functionality.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061-T6 aluminum construction ensures that the Strike Industries Pit Stock is built to last. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, further enhancing its durability. As mentioned earlier, maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe down with a cloth to remove dirt and debris.
The stock’s simple design means there are fewer parts that can break or wear out, ensuring long-term reliability. Based on my experience, I expect this stock to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Pit Stock itself doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. However, it requires the use of the Strike Industries receiver extension (SI-AR-ARE-T7), which is sold separately. While there are no direct customization options for the stock itself, it can be paired with different buffer weights and springs to fine-tune the rifle’s recoil impulse.
The compatibility with standard AR-15 buffer systems allows for some degree of customization. However, it’s important to note that the Pit Stock is designed as a complete system with the Strike Industries receiver extension.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Pit Stock
Pros
- Ultra-compact and lightweight, ideal for SBRs and AR pistols.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple and reliable design with minimal maintenance requirements.
- Aggressive aesthetics that enhance the look of any AR build.
- Surprisingly comfortable cheek weld despite its minimalist design.
Cons
- Limited adjustability with only three length-of-pull positions.
- Requires proprietary Strike Industries receiver extension, adding to the overall cost.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Pit Stock?
The Strike Industries Pit Stock is perfect for those building ultra-compact AR pistols or SBRs where minimizing size and weight is paramount. It’s also well-suited for shooters with smaller frames or those who prefer a very short length of pull. This stock is a great choice for anyone looking to build an extremely light and maneuverable AR platform.
Those who prefer a traditional adjustable stock with a wider range of length-of-pull options should skip this product. Individuals who prioritize comfort and ergonomics above all else may also find the Pit Stock to be too minimalist for their liking. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a specialized component for specific builds and users.
A must-have modification is ensuring you have the correct Strike Industries buffer tube. This part is required for proper function.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Pit Stock
The Strike Industries Pit Stock is a unique and well-executed product that delivers on its promise of extreme compactness and lightweight performance. While its limited adjustability may not appeal to everyone, it’s an excellent choice for those building specialized AR platforms where size and weight are critical considerations.
The price is reasonable for a high-quality, niche product made from durable materials. It is a fair price to pay for its unique attributes.
I would personally recommend the Strike Industries Pit Stock to anyone looking to build an ultra-compact AR pistol or SBR without compromising on durability or reliability. If you’re ready to embrace the minimalist approach and prioritize maneuverability above all else, the Pit Stock is definitely worth considering. Now, go forth and build your dream compact AR!