The versatility of an AR rifle or carbine wearing a buttstock easily adjusted for length-of-pull is undeniable. Squeeze a paddle under the cheekrest and the gun takes up less space in the safe, fits into shorter cases and reconfigures instantly for shooters of different statures. It is a huge advantage for tactical retailers, who never know whether their next customer will be as tall as an NBA all-star or a Kentucky Derby jockey. 

The majority of modern sporting rifles ship from the factory wearing one. There is a drawback, however. Most fail to provide the rock-solid foundation required to squeeze the platform’s full precision at distance. 

Admittedly, most enthusiasts didn’t take an AR home to print ¾-MOA groups at 500 yards. Still, the number of owners stretching the gun’s distance is growing at a steady pace. The pursuit is infectious and catching on at firing lines nationwide.

Add the number of rimfires and even bolt-actions with modular, modern sporting rifle-compatible furniture, and even a modest inventory of equipment for accuracy addicts is a wise investment. Perhaps best of all, it’s still attractive for owners more concerned with home defense at 20 yards than drop at 300.

There’s no shortage of aftermarket AR buttstocks that provide unfailing stability without surrendering adjustability. They may abandon some rangeside convenience — requiring a little more effort to alter configuration — but they help deliver precision downrange.

Perhaps best of all for tactical retailers is the fact they install in a few minutes, making them an ideal over-the-counter, value-added service. The procedure is slightly different than the slip-on convenience of the more-standard adjustable AR stock, though. Here’s a quick look at the procedure.

First, determine the buttstock that best fits the customer’s needs. Some of the options to discuss include an adjustable cheekrest, buttpad and other features. Don’t forget to ask about sling slots, quick-detach mounts and buttstock toe profile — just in case they do most of their shooting from the bench. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about them and, if the opportunity presents itself, recommend upgrades to consider in the future.

Once you’ve agreed on the ideal buttstock, open the package and inspect for cosmetic blemishes. Inventory parts, although odds are good it will arrive fully assembled. Check for interior burrs or imperfections that could prevent it from installing easily, consult the instructions and collect necessary tools. 

Safety, as always, is first, foremost and always emphasized here. New and inexperienced employees, after all, are business reality. 

While keeping the firearm pointed in a safe direction, engage the gun’s safety if it is not already in that position. Maintain that muzzle direction and drop the magazine.

Work the charging handle or bolt and inspect inside the chamber. Ensure no cartridge remains. If one is there, remove it. Double check and use a flashlight if necessary.   

Place the magazine and any cartridges away from your immediate workspace. Distractions are common during store hours.

Now you’re ready to remove the installed length-of-pull adjustable buttstock. In most cases, pushing the lever under the cheekpiece down, instead of squeezing up, releases the locking mechanism. It then slides off the back of the buffer tube. In rare versions, it may be slightly different. In those cases, consult the manufacturer’s website or instructions to avoid damage.  

Inspect and clean the buffer tube if necessary. Odds are good it won’t be necessary, but grime collected there is sometimes surprising.

The front of the new buttstock will have a bar or bolt to anchor it firmly up front on the buffer tube. In this model’s case, it took a hex wrench for removal. 

With that bolt/bar pulled out, you can now glide the new model onto the buffer tube. Do so firmly toward the upper receiver. Reinstall the bolt/bar. Use thread-locking compound if recommended and tighten per manufacturer instructions. Give the buttstock a tug afterward to determine if there’s any wiggle. 

Hand the unloaded gun back to the customer, reminding them to keep it pointed in a safe direction. Then inquire if the length of pull feels comfortable. If not, follow the instructions to adjust and repeat until the ideal position is found. Do the same with the cheekpiece and recoil pad setting, one at a time. 

Don’t forget to mention things may change during the winter, when they don a thick coat. Walk them through the adjustment steps if they feel any are needed later, and you’re ready to send another happy customer out the door.