If you have or are thinking about getting an AR-15, one of the things you might want to upgrade is the stock. Swapping out a stock is one of the easiest things to upgrade on an AR-15, and it only takes a few seconds. But with so many options out there, where do you start? There are a lot of stocks out there to choose from, which makes the selection process a little daunting. When you start comparing brands, you may notice a lot of stocks look about the same. I’m not saying they are the same, but sometimes it’s nice to have something different.
Well, the Luth-AR MBA stock has a lot to offer and is one you should check out. A standard spec stock does the job, but we all like to change a few things around for looks and functionality, don’t we? There is no arguing the Luth-AR MBA “modular Buttstock Assembly” is a completely customizable stock that comes with a ton of options. Let’s take a quick look at what it has to offer and see if this could be your next AR-15 upgrade.
What does the Luth-AR MBA stock offer?
Some companies offer multiple stocks ranging from minimalistic size to full-size fixed stocks. Luth-AR, however, developed the MBA stock and made it available in multiple configurations. When purchasing an MBA stock, you can choose from five configurations or four stock kits. Each kit comes with a buffer assembly, which includes the buffer tube, spring, weight, castle nut, and end plate.
When selecting one of the five configurations of MBA stocks, you can select a version that fits your rifle and your needs. Below is a quick list of each MBA stock and their differences:
- MBA-1: Fits on an A2 buffer tube with a 3-axis butt-plate and adjustable cheek weld.
- MBA-2: A base model that fits on an A2 buffer tube with add-on options.
- MBA-3: Same as MBA-1 but fits on a carbine buffer tube. Has an adjustable butt-plate and cheek weld.
- MBA-4: Same as MBA-3 but without the adjustable cheek weld and buttstock. Works with a standard 6-position buffer tube.
- MBA-5: Works with a standard 6-position carbine buffer tube and has a quick-adjust lever along with a flared cheek weld.
One thing that really sets LUTH-AR apart from other companies is the accessories they offer for the MBA series of stocks. A quick search revealed approximately 52 accessories, including replacement parts for the MBA series. All five stocks are compatible with the GrovTec threaded base cup for QD sling attachment.
A Close Look at the MBA-4 With Cheek Weld
I selected the MBA-4 stock with the add-on cheek weld. Being able to adjust the cheek weld to work with the optic on your rifle is a great feature. This is especially true when using a high-rise mount on your optic. A quick-adjust thumbscrew on the right side of the stock allows the cheek weld to move up to one inch. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it’s more effective than you would think.
I like the bracket they used for the cheek weld, as it feels sturdy and doesn’t move once tightened down. The standard MBA-4 stock retails for approximately $70, and adding the cheek weld brings the price up to $129.00. To some, the extra cost is worth the add-on, and to others, the basic stock is all they need. This is why I like the multiple configuration series they developed.
The MBA-4 stock’s buttplate is 0.5 inches thick but can be configured with spacer plates and other buttstocks. You can even purchase the 3-axis adjustable buttstock to add on later if you wish.
Once you have the stock in the position you want, a set screw is located on the top front of the stock. When tightened, you cannot adjust the stock without loosing the screw. For those who want the mobility of an adjustable stock, the MBA-5 offers a quick adjustment lever. I placed the MBA-4 on my Black Rain Fallout AR equipped with the Swampfox Tomahawk II. For this setup, I don’t mind having a stock that locks in place once the set screw is tightened.
Is it functional?
The best way to tell if a stock is functional or just looks cool is to use it. Between law enforcement classes and range events, I use an AR-15 a great deal. So, I started taking my Black Rain rifle with me to the range every time I went. The only issue I had with the stock not being adjustable once the set screw was in place was my range bag.
One of my bags was just long enough to fit my rifle, with the stock collapsed all the way. Once I extended the MBA stock and tightened the set screw, it wouldn’t fit. That wasn’t a huge issue, as I have a larger bag, but it’s something to think about. Other than that, I loved the MBA-4 stock. Once I had the cheek weld set to work with my Swampfox LPVO, it handled great.
I didn’t think to order the GrovTec QD base cup with the stock, so I didn’t have a sling, which I’m not used to. The base cup only costs $5.29 from LUTH-AR, so make sure to order one with your stock.
There is a Picatinny rail on the bottom of the buttstock for those wishing to add any accessories to it. I have never used Picatinny rails on buttstocks before, but some do, and it doesn’t hurt having it on there.
A Good Match for LPVO Setups
I’ve used a lot of stocks over the years, and some work better than others. The MBA series has great potential, and I like that most accessories are interchangeable on the stocks. I would like to try the MBA-1 series stock on an AR-10, as it would be great for a long-distance rifle. For those who want something closer to a traditional stock, the MBA-5 is a great option.
For me, the MBA-4 is perfect for multi-purpose rifles equipped with LVPOs or medium-range scopes. It’s not designed for adjusting the length in the field, but once you have it set, it’s a solid stock. The quality is top-notch, and I like the shape and feel while using it. I will definitely be trying out some of their other stocks in the future.
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