A1 to A2 stock - Page 1

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Posted: 6/19/2017 1:15:20 PM EDT

I just completed my first M16A1 retro build and am considering installing a A2 stock. I'm looking at spacers on E Bay and the spacers are vented. What does that mean?

Posted: 6/19/2017 2:41:16 PM EDT

[#1]

The longer A2 length screw that comes with it is vented. Not the spacer.

The screw is vented to keep from creating a hydraulic effect in the receiver extension and ensure reliability. This can also vent excess oil or water should it enter the system.

Posted: 6/19/2017 3:26:28 PM EDT

[#2]

Quoted:
I just completed my first M16A1 retro build and am considering installing a A2 stock.

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Why?

Posted: 6/19/2017 3:36:14 PM EDT

[#3]

Quote History

Quoted:

Why?

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This^^^^^

Posted: 6/19/2017 3:55:14 PM EDT

[#4]

Because I have long arms and want to see if its a better fit. I can always go back.

Posted: 6/19/2017 4:21:39 PM EDT

[#5]

Quote History

Quoted:
Because I have long arms and want to see if its a better fit. I can always go back.

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The A2 stock is 5/8" longer than the A1, I don't know if those 5/8 of an inch will make a big difference though. I can only speak for myself, of course and I'm 5'11" so take this with that in mind, but to me the A1 is much more comfortable than the A2. If I was 6'5", I may have a different opinion on that but as it is (for me), the A1 is like a favorite, comfortable pair of shoes. It just fits very well. (I have both an A1 and an A2).

Posted: 6/19/2017 4:34:21 PM EDT

[#6]

Thanks for the info. I'm 6'1" and my son is 6'5" and he will inherit it one day. Not too soon I hope.

Posted: 6/19/2017 4:57:29 PM EDT

[#7]

Quote History

Quoted:
Thanks for the info. I'm 6'1" and my son is 6'5" and he will inherit it one day. Not too soon I hope.

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What I'd do, is get something that's 5/8" thick, maybe a block of wood or something, and shoulder the A1 with that 5/8" 'spacer' between your shoulder and the buttstock. See how much of a difference it makes and if you think it'd be 'worth it', to be 'incorrect'.

Hickok45 (on YouTube) talks about having an extra inch or so on his rifles, and how it makes a big difference to him, but he's 6'8" lol.

Posted: 6/19/2017 5:03:19 PM EDT

[#8]

I'm 6'4 and hate the A2 stock.

YMMV

Posted: 6/19/2017 5:06:21 PM EDT

[#9]

Quote History

Quoted:
I'm 6'4 and hate the A2 stock.

YMMV

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This, it all depends on how you hold your rifle but I'm about 6'2" and I much prefer the A1 length of pull over the A2. Personal preference though.

Posted: 6/19/2017 5:31:49 PM EDT

[#10]

I have a M16 A1 as well as an A2, and I really don't notice all that much difference when I shoulder them, 5/8" is really not all that much in the whole scheme of things.

Posted: 6/19/2017 5:42:14 PM EDT

[#11]

Quote History

Quoted:
I have a M16 A1 as well as an A2, and I really don't notice all that much difference when I shoulder them, 5/8" is really not all that much in the whole scheme of things.

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Bingo.

Posted: 6/19/2017 8:43:18 PM EDT

[#12]

I have a spacer that fits in front of the stock, giving it a2 length while using a E or earlier stock. I've had it for 20 years and used it off and on for different rifles, but always returned to standard A1 length. I'll take a picture as soon as I remember what box I put it in.

P.S. It requires a A2 screw and buffer tube spacer.

Posted: 6/19/2017 9:44:54 PM EDT

[#13]

Thanks to all for a ton of great information.

Posted: 6/20/2017 2:09:45 AM EDT

[#14]

I've had A1's and A2's. Even when I use A2's, I prefer A1 buttplates because they feel better to me.

Posted: 6/20/2017 2:43:23 AM EDT

[#15]

I stand with most of the folks here.
I have - as most - both builds (pictured below, what the heck - a thread is better with pics) and I generally prefer A1 stocks to A2s.

I do want to keep the rifle looking accurate and good - however - hence will go with whatever I have to, on my 'clones'.

Classic Carbines by SoloDallas, on Flickr

Posted: 6/21/2017 1:12:30 AM EDT

[#16]

If you are dead set on using an A2 stock, you could always put an A1 type E stock buttplate on the A2 stock. It'll help keep some of the correct look. They are interchangeable.

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - A1 to A2 stock

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