Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip Review

The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve handled enough shotguns in my career to know that a good stock can make or break your shooting experience. The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip promised a customizable and compact solution, and I was eager to see if it delivered on that promise. Tristar Sporting Arms is a known entity, but venturing into the tactical stock market requires a solid offering.

My existing shotgun, while reliable, lacked adjustability for different shooting positions, something I needed for varied hunting scenarios. The need for a shorter overall length for storage and transport in my ATV was another strong driver. Unboxing revealed a lightweight yet seemingly robust polymer construction, and the pistol grip felt surprisingly ergonomic.

I considered a similar folding stock from Blackhawk! and a Magpul SGA stock. However, the Tristar Sporting Arms option offered a more aggressive price point while still boasting the core features I was after. Initial impressions were cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a good balance of features and affordability, but the real test would be out in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip at my local shooting range. The setup took about 15 minutes, fitting snugly onto my Mossberg 500. I immediately noticed the difference in handling with the pistol grip; it provided a much more secure and controlled feel during rapid firing.

The weather was typical for late fall – damp and chilly. The textured grip remained secure even with slightly wet hands. The adjustable length-of-pull allowed me to quickly adapt to wearing a thick shooting jacket. I did, however, notice a slight wobble in the folding mechanism when deployed, which caused some initial concern.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a pheasant hunting trip, the Tristar Sporting Arms stock has proven to be reasonably durable. Minor scuffs are visible on the polymer, but nothing significant. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it in good condition.

The initial wobble in the folding mechanism hasn’t worsened, but it is still present. This is something that I will continue to monitor. Compared to my previous fixed stock, the adjustability and improved recoil absorption make a noticeable difference, especially during extended shooting sessions.

Breaking Down the Features of Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip

Specifications

The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns. Constructed primarily of high-strength polymer, the stock feels surprisingly lightweight, which is a definite plus for all-day use in the field. This reduces fatigue significantly. The folding mechanism allows for a drastically reduced overall length when stowed, crucial for transport and storage in confined spaces.

The adjustable length-of-pull caters to different body types and shooting styles, a feature often overlooked. The ergonomic pistol grip provides enhanced control, promoting more accurate and faster follow-up shots. Attachment slots allow for customization with accessories. The integrated rubber recoil pad effectively mitigates felt recoil, making even high-brass loads more manageable.

Performance & Functionality

The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip performs admirably in its intended role. The adjustable length-of-pull is a game-changer, allowing for a custom fit that significantly improves comfort and control. The pistol grip provides a more secure and natural hold, particularly beneficial during dynamic shooting scenarios.

The folding mechanism, while functional, is the stock’s weakest point. It introduces a small amount of play that detracts from the overall solid feel. Nevertheless, it still enhances maneuverability and storage capabilities. The recoil pad does a decent job of absorbing recoil, especially when compared to a standard factory stock.

Design & Ergonomics

The polymer construction keeps the weight down without sacrificing too much in terms of robustness. The pistol grip is well-contoured and textured. This ensures a secure and comfortable grip. The design is purely functional, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics.

The length-of-pull adjustment is easy to use, allowing for on-the-fly modifications to suit different shooting positions or clothing. The folding mechanism is simple and intuitive. It does not require any tools to operate. There is a slight learning curve to deploying and locking the stock quickly and efficiently.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-strength polymer should provide years of reliable service with proper care. So far, it has held up well against moderate use and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is minimal. A regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water is all that’s required.

The folding mechanism is the only potential long-term concern. Only time will tell how well it withstands repeated use and exposure to dirt and grime. Regular lubrication might be necessary to maintain smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip features attachment slots for adding accessories such as slings, optics, or lights. These slots are compatible with most standard Picatinny rail attachments. This enhances the stock’s versatility.

The stock is designed to be a drop-in replacement for factory stocks on compatible 12-gauge shotguns. This makes it easy to customize your firearm to your specific needs. The ability to add a cheek riser would be a welcome addition. It would further enhance the ergonomics for users with optics.

Pros and Cons of Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip

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Who Should Buy Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip?

The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip is perfect for hunters, tactical shooters, and home defense enthusiasts who prioritize adjustability, compactness, and improved control. It’s an excellent upgrade for anyone seeking to enhance the ergonomics and versatility of their 12-gauge shotgun without breaking the bank. It is particularly well-suited for situations where maneuverability in tight spaces is paramount, such as hunting in dense brush or navigating confined areas during home defense scenarios.

Those prioritizing ultimate durability and a rock-solid feel might want to consider higher-end aluminum stock options. Shooters who rarely need the folding capability might also find a fixed, adjustable stock to be a more stable and cost-effective solution. A quality sling is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the folding stock’s enhanced maneuverability.

Conclusion on Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip

The Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip delivers a significant upgrade in terms of adjustability, control, and compactness for a very reasonable price. While the slight wobble in the folding mechanism is a minor drawback, the overall benefits outweigh this concern for most users. At $76.99, the price is definitely justified by the improved ergonomics and enhanced functionality it provides.

I would personally recommend the Tristar Sporting Arms 20138 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock with Pistol Grip to anyone looking for an affordable and practical way to modernize their 12-gauge shotgun. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a well-designed stock can make!

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