Introduced in 2012, the Magpul Storage/Type Restricted (STR) Carbine Stock is intended to provide an option for shooters looking for improved cheek weld and storage capacity. Today the STR remains a mainstay of Magpul’s diverse product line and continues to find service among recreational and professional shooters.
The STR Stock was developed to be among the many in Magpul’s line of polymer buttstocks that combines the minimalist function of the CTR stock, with added utility storage for power sources along both sides.
These water-resistant storage compartments are sufficient enough to allow for two CR123A lithium batteries, or two AA batteries to be stored by the rear-facing, hand-removable rubberized plugs. In turn, these storage compartments give the STR a broader area for an angled cheek piece which translates to a greater cheek weld with the shooter.
The reinforced and compact A-frame design of the STR includes a shielded operation lever that “unlocks” the stock from the buffer tube. The corresponding friction locking system then allows the STR to move to any position of the buffer tube, and once a position is determined, to maintain a positive position with minimal movement.
A reversible QD mounting cup, a 0.30” thick replaceable rubberized buttstock, and two integral sling loops (to accommodate a sling up to 1.25” wide) finish off the additional features to the STR.
Specifications:
- Accommodates AR10, AR15, M4, M16, M110, SR25 platforms
- Stock dimensions 7.3” (L) x 2.6” (W)
The STR Carbine Stock is available in Black (featured), Stealth Grey, FDE, and OD Green.
Product Evaluation Scores:
- Cost – Average (3/5): At $79.95 the STR represents a perfect balance of materials over cost wherein the efficient design allows for some essential storage, improved function, at a minimal increase over the more basic CTR ($59.95) stock. Magpul has made its products synonymous with aftermarket rifle products and the STR has a lot to offer shooters from the basic to more advanced. In comparison VLTOR’s IMOD ($89.95) is perhaps the closest comparator in both material and function, followed closely by B5 System’s SOPMOD ($58.99). Given that the STR’s price falls roughly between these, that gives its cost an average rating within the market. The one aspect Magpul has to offer is a very diverse product line and the STR sits within the middle of its lineup so if the STR isn’t quite what the consumer is looking for then Magpul almost certainly has an alternative.
- Comfort – Good (4/5): The biggest aspect of the STR’s comfort was its improved dimensions for a larger cheek weld over the more basic A2-type stocks. The tube itself was angled with a wider base that gave it a quasi-triangular appearance. This design not only gave the shooter more real-estate for contact when shouldering, but sufficient space for the two storage compartments that run the length of the stock. The two rubberized plugs had a comfortable fit inside the storage tubes, and were easily removed with the fingertip. Internet research illustrated that some variances in buffer tube dimensions may result in a minor amount of wiggle between the STR and buffer tube, but there are a number of personalized and simple remedies to resolve that issue.
- Durability – Excellent (5/5): The STR was made from the same polymer material as Magpul’s magazines, this gave it a good degree of resiliency and durability throughout evaluation. The thickness of the stock’s tube and A-frame help ensured any force or tension was transferred throughout the design and mitigated. In addition to several drop tests, the STR was used for several stressor iterations going from prone to standing while using the STR as a means to brace the movement. In all cases the STR supported the pressure and was never compromised beyond some minor surface marring.
- Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally the STR’s operational and friction lock both provided a solid connection to the buffer tube and the stock, keeping the overall STR in place. Movement along the various positions was solid and the operational lock avoided any accidental slippage. As noted, the biggest aspect of the STR was the improved cheek weld over the CTR or other A2 style buttstocks. While there was a little added bulk due to the angled sides of the tube and its storage compartment, it is minimal at most. The ability of the QD cup to be moved from either side was accomplished simply by unscrewing the hardware and reassembling on the opposite side. The only noted negative from a functional aspect was the removable plugs for the storage tubes did not have any type of attached lanyard or connection, making them very susceptible to loss when removed.
- Weight – Fair (2/5): Coming in at 12.3 ounces, the STR is in the mid-rage of the Magpul family with the lighter CTR weighing 8.8 ounces, and the UBR being 23.36 ounces. But for its advantages; improved cheek weld, storage and adjustability the STR is one of the more logical options for those looking for an appropriate blend of lightweight function and form. In comparison however, the VLTOR’s IMOD (9.5 ounce) and the B5 System’s SOPMOD (10.25 ounces) both come in under the weight of the STR making it the heavier option. The weight of the STR will aid in absorbing some of the recoil, but it is still a fair weight amid similar competitors.
Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)
Product Link: https://magpul.com/firearm-accessories/stocks/ar15-m4-m16-sr25-m110-ar10/str-carbine-stock-mil-spec.html?mp_global_color=118
I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.
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