Stocks & Buffer Systems

How buffer weight, springs, and stock choice affect recoil, follow-up speed, and ergonomics.

Recoil management and ergonomics are more than cosmetics. Stock selection, buffer system, and spring weight define how the rifle handles recoil and how quickly you can make follow-up shots.

Stocks
Fixed stocks are simple and stable. Adjustable collapsible stocks offer length-of-pull adjustments, cheek weld options, and sling attachment points. Choose a stock that fits your body, kit, and mission.

Buffer & spring
Buffer weight and recoil spring affect cyclic rate and felt recoil. Heavy buffers can soften recoil but may slow cycling; lighter buffers increase speed but can increase wear. Match buffer/spring combos to your BCG and gas system.

Recoil pads & cheek risers
Small changes like a rubber butt pad or cheek riser improve comfort and sight alignment, especially with optics. Consider an adjustable cheek riser for precision glass.

Practical tip
If your rifle’s muzzle flips excessively or the rifle’s timing is off, try tuning the buffer weight and spring before changing gas system parts. Often a tuned buffer system solves perceived recoil problems.

Want the rifle to fit you like a glove? Downrange Precision Arms offers fitting, buffer tuning, and stock installation.