AR Furniture

Buttstock, pistol grip, and handguard

AR furniture includes the buttstock, the pistol grip, and the handguard. “Furniture” is a term that has come about because of all the choices about how to furnish your weapon.

The furniture is your connection to the weapon. The buttstock goes to your shoulder, the pistol grip goes in one hand and the handguard in the other. Matching the physical properties (size, shape, functions, and texture) to your preferences makes a difference in your shooting. It makes a difference because the weapon fits you better. 

The furniture also provides attachment points for accessories. Slings, sights, lights, foregrips, bipods, and more attach to the furniture.

On some lower receivers the buttstock and pistol grip hold two key springs in place. The buttstock holds the rear takedown detent spring in place. The pistol grip holds the safety selector lever detent spring in place. Some lower receivers use set screws to retain these springs but some (most) rely on the buttstock and pistol grip. This is a key “sproing” issue when removing a buttstock or a pistol grip. Be aware and alert. We all hate chasing springs.