4 Best M1A Stocks in 2023

The M1A is a fantastic and highly versatile rifle. It’s incredibly accurate, and it works well as a bigger-caliber tactical rifle.

It is also very customizable, although not as versatile as an AR-15. However, by changing the chassis, you can fine-tune your M1A. And the stock you pick serves as the foundation for additional upgrades and personalization.

Given the importance of your rifle stock, I decided to take a look for the best M1A stocks that you can buy to help you find the perfect option for your M1A.

best m1a stocks

Best M1A Stocks in 2023

  1. ProMag Archangel Springfield Armory M1A Precision Stock – Best Affordable M1A Stock
  2. Boyds Hardwood Springfield M1A Stock – Best Budget M1A Stock
  3. ProMag Archangel M1A Close Quarters Stock – Best CQB M1A Stock
  4. Vltor M1-S: M1A Improved Stock – Best M1A Scout Stock

1 ProMag Archangel Springfield Armory M1A Precision Stock – Best Affordable M1A Stock

ProMag’s Archangel is not only a very well-designed stock but also one of the most affordable M1A stocks currently available. Its adjustability is its main selling point; the adjustable comb height and length of pull are major improvements over a factory wooden stock.

The Archangel stock effortlessly adapts to your body. This makes it considerably easier to sit behind the rifle in a steady shooting position for a prolonged period without becoming too tired.

Comfortable and practical…

It features a deep thumb notch which offers far more comfort than a regular rifle stock. The thumb notch’s depth is similar to that of a pistol grip. You can also position your hand lower, putting your shoulder and elbow joints in a more comfortable posture.

The stock’s polymer construction makes it much lighter than your typical hardwood stocks, weighing only 4.2 lbs. It’s not exactly lightweight, but if you’re out on a long hunt, you’ll welcome the reduced weight.

If you own a full-length M1A, this stock is undoubtedly the best choice. It makes holding typical long-range shooting stances significantly more comfortable. Plus, the added flexibility makes it much easier to improve your precision shooting skills.

Pros

  • Very comfortable.
  • Reasonably lightweight.
  • Excellent accuracy with a precision fit inlet.
  • Quick disconnect.

Cons

  • Not the easiest stock to install.
  • No side rails.

2 Boyds Hardwood Springfield M1A Stock – Best Budget M1A Stock

Sometimes, shooters come across older M1A rifles that need some work. The action and barrel are usually in good condition. However, the stock may require some attention or even replacement.

If you have a rifle that needs a little TLC but don’t want to spend a fortune on an aftermarket stock, then Boyds Hardwood’s Stock is an excellent classic and economical option.

Not the most comfortable…

It is a basic walnut M1A stock that maintains your M1A’s iconic design and ergonomics. However, it’s not the most comfortable stock I tested, and you may feel some discomfort in your cheeks; plus, there’s definitely more felt recoil than with a more high-tech stock.

However, there’s much to be said for the M1A’s vintage look. And adding a rubber butt pad gives you quite a bit more comfort than the metal buttplates, which are quite popular on vintage military stocks. This brings up an important point regarding this stock: it does not include a buttplate. That’s convenient because it allows for some customization; however, it’s not so good for those who want a plug-and-play stock.

If you want the traditional M1A aesthetic, this is the cheapest stock option. The classic design is also appealing if you’re looking for the best low-cost M1A stock.

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • Traditional look and feel.

Cons

  • Not very comfortable.
  • Buttplate not included.

3 ProMag Archangel M1A Close Quarters Stock – Best CQB M1A Stock

The Close Quarters Stock was designed to make an M1A rifle’s rear feel more like an AR-15. It performs very well at this, but the design is not quite perfect.

To begin, this stock replaces the regular rifle stock with a collapsible AR-15 style stock. It functions and feels exactly like a Magpul stock and also includes an elevated cheekpiece.

If you have a magnifying optic, the cheekpiece is very useful. Keeping your reticle stable is much easier, particularly in less stable shooting stances.

A little bit awkward…

The pistol grip is suitable for shooting in both upright and prone positions. But, using a precision shooting grip makes the pistol grip feel a touch awkward. It’s not that bad, but the palm swell feels strange unless your thumb is wrapped around the grip. Either way, those who own this stock generally love it, but some body types won’t work well with this stock, so keep that in mind.

The purpose of this stock is to improve the CQB performance of your M1A. It works wonderfully for that purpose. This stock is stable from both standing and kneeling positions.

A tactical M1A stock like this is a fantastic choice if you have a shorter M1A, like an M1A Scout with optics. But if you do more long-range shooting than CQB, ProMag’s Archangel Precision stock is a superior choice.

Pros

  • Precision fit inlet for improved accuracy.
  • Anti-snag rubber recoil pad.
  • Pistol grip featuring locking grip storage compartment.
  • Buttstock extension with additional storage compartment.

Cons

  • Can be tricky to install.
  • The design needs improvement.

4 Vltor M1-S: M1A Improved Stock – Best M1A Scout Stock

Vltor’s M1A Stock is the best choice if you own an M1A Scout or prefer a more tactically focused M1A. In fact, it’s the most comprehensive M1A tactical stock on the market. The buttstock and pistol grip are top-class. It also includes sling attachment points, allowing you to use modern sling setups.

Personally, I like a more vertical pistol grip angle on an AR-15. But the M1A’s ergonomics are better with a slightly steeper grip angle. The Vlotr stock’s grip angle is a little steeper, which is ideal for an M1A.

Less felt recoil…

The stock also includes a VLTOR EMOD Buttstock. It’s one of the best collapsible stocks available, offering several storage slots. The cheekpiece is ergonomic and assists in getting a steady sight picture with optics. It also has a nice and thick rubber pad that helps absorb some of the .308 round’s recoil.

You can add the CASV-14 M1A Rail system to take this stock to the next level. It’s a lightweight aluminum free-float handguard with many optic attachment configurations. This includes traditional scopes, red dot, and scout rifle style.

The CASV-14 M1A rail system also features multiple points where Picatinny rails for a bipod can be added. Although the Scout Squad and SOCOM rifles have shorter barrels, they can still hit a target from a distance.

I love the mix of a compact stock for close-medium-range and the option to add a bipod for long-range shooting. Overall, the VLTOR M1-S is the most comfortable tactical M1A stock I tested. Plus, it’s good for long-range shooting if you want to maintain your rifle’s versatility.

Pros

  • Lightweight.
  • VLTOR proprietary mold and carbon fiber composite.
  • Waterproof battery compartments.
  • QD swivel sockets.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • Top rail not included.

Best M1A Stocks Buyers Guide

The stock is one of the most important parts of a rifle. It affects the handling and feel of the weapon, and also your shooting performance. Therefore, you will want the most from your new M1A stock, such as the ability to attach a bipod and a sling.

Rifle stocks are available in one or two-piece configurations. Firmer, one-piece stocks typically offer greater accuracy potential. They are, however, more expensive and heavier than two-piece rifle stocks. Most rifle stocks, particularly bolt-on stocks, can be installed in less than 10 minutes.

Stock Material

The stock’s material is more important than just aesthetics. The kind of shooting you do and the conditions in which you do it are other key aspects. Well-treated wood and synthetic stocks can be used in wet conditions, and synthetics perform well as a cheaper, waterproof alternative.

But, choosing an unsuitable stock can compromise your shooting. If the stock is made from a softer material, it allows for excessive movement, making it unreliable. Harder stock materials make your rifle more stable and able to absorb force more effectively.

Hardwood stocks range from highly accurate to much less so, depending on the manufacturer and design. Laminated wood stocks, on the other hand, offer a very high potential for accuracy. The wood quality, finish, and weather all affect accuracy. Injection-molded synthetic stocks have average potential and weight, while composite synthetic stocks are lightweight and offer superior accuracy.

best m1a stock

How Much Should You Spend?

If you’re into your rifle and gear, it’s easy to get swept up with gun accessories and gadgets. But, it’s the material that the stock is constructed from that ultimately determines how much you spend.

Hardwood stocks that have been professionally finished can range from the low-end to over $2000 for feature-packed walnut stocks. Wood species, grain uniformity, age, and, of course, aesthetics all influence the price.

The price of synthetic stocks depends on the materials used and ranges from $50-$800 for tactical carbon fiber stocks. Injection-molded stocks are made of thermoplastic and are ergonomic and functional for a reasonable price. But thermoplastics don’t always mean that the stock is stronger than a more traditional design. They often deteriorate with time due to the constant heat from firing or being continuously exposed to high summer temperatures.

Size, Weight, and Mobility

The best rifle stock on the market is useless if you can’t personally handle or carry it comfortably. A rifle with an excessively heavy or large stock makes it difficult to shoot accurately and manage recoil. As we all know, comfortably handling your rifle is essential for successful shooting.

You should pick your stock depending on the purpose of your M1A. If you’re shooting mostly from a prone position or for competition, the stock’s weight will be less important. In this case, the extra weight for a stationary position assists in decreasing the recoil impact and improves stability.

If you need to move around a lot, for example, while hunting, weight becomes a concern. For increased mobility, you’ll need something lighter.

There are various stock materials and styles to pick from. The one you choose comes down to your lifestyle, shooting style, and budget. You want comfort, safety, and optimal stability for whatever type of shooting you enjoy.

Interested in Some More Quality Accessories for your M1A?

Then check out our in-depth reviews of the Best M1A Magazines as well as the Best M1A Bipods that you can buy in 2023.

Or, if you’re thinking of getting hold of an AR10? Then take a look at our informative M1A vs AR10 comparison and some interesting Facts About M1A Rifles that might help you with your decision.

Which of these Best M1A Stocks Should You Buy?

The M1A is an exceptional battle rifle, despite its age, and is surprisingly precise for a semi-automatic rifle. And you can get a ton of improved performance without changing the action or barrel by equipping it with the best stocks for M1A currently available.

But which of these M1A stocks is the best?

My top pick is the…

ProMag Archangel Springfield Armory M1A Precision Stock

This M1A stock boasts a sturdy chassis, high tactical utility, accurate performance, and is fully customizable. So, get out there and go upgrade your M1A to get the most out of your legendary battle rifle!

As always, stay safe and happy shooting.

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About Robert Carlson

Robert has over 15 years in Law Enforcement, with the past eight years as a senior firearms instructor for the largest police department in the South Eastern United States. Specializing in Active Shooters, Counter-Ambush, Low-light, and Patrol Rifles, he has trained thousands of Law Enforcement Officers in firearms.

A U.S Air Force combat veteran with over 25 years of service specialized in small arms and tactics training. He is the owner of Brave Defender Training Group LLC, providing advanced firearms and tactical training.

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