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View Full Version : Magpul Enhanced Rubber Buttpad Review



Stickman
5 August 2009, 20:34
Weapon System: AR15/ M16

Manufacturer: Magpul

Item Installed: Magpul Enhanced Rubber Buttpad

Tools Needed: Allenhead wrench

Purpose of Item: Improves texture, ergonomics, increases length of pull by .40", and enhances impact protection.

Length of time with item reviewed: 9 months




http://stickman.rainierarms.com/galleries/Magpul%20III/0O2P0971-1028-Stick.jpg

Stickman
5 August 2009, 20:38
The Magpul Enhanced ButtPad (EBP) was first shown at SHOT 2009, and drew immediate questions about when it would be released, and what it did that the standard part did not.

I'll start out by commenting that the past 9 months that I've spent with the EBP has been with a prototype model, and while I've seen no real changes in the production item, its still worth commenting that mine may be a tad different.


The EBP is designed for stocks using Mil Spec receiver extensions (buffer tubes), and will function on the Magpul ACS, CTR, MOE, and UBR.


http://stickman.rainierarms.com/galleries/Magpul%20III/0O2P0975-1028-Stick.jpg

Stickman
5 August 2009, 20:42
The EBP does a few things better than the standard version pad, but whether its needed or not will be a decision that the reader needs to make for themselves based on their own uses and likes with their weapon platform.

The length of pull (LOP) is increased an additional .040" over the standard pad. The increased padding may function to reduce recoil for some shooters, but it would probably be more noticeable for smaller stature shooters or those who are more recoil sensitive. While some people may laugh at that, it doesn't change that lessened felt recoil generally allows for better shooting. This may also become more apparent when paired with larger caliber weapons.

Shown below next to the Magpul CTR, the increased length is evident.


http://stickman.rainierarms.com/galleries/Magpul%20III/0O2P0978-A-1028-Stick.jpg

Stickman
5 August 2009, 20:47
Magpul notes improved ergonomics with the EBP. When shown from the side, the viewer can see that there is more of an arch. Its not a massive difference to me, but part of that is no doubt because I am always shooting in armor.

Another upgrade is the texture. The standard pad is no slouch, and I've never had any trouble in inclement weather, but I can see where there is certainly a more aggressive pattern in the EBP.



http://stickman.rainierarms.com/galleries/Magpul%204/IMG_0280-1024-Stick.jpg

Stickman
5 August 2009, 20:56
Increased impact protection is something that most of us don't think about, but its nice to see that Magpul is keeping this in mind. The most common method of clearing a locked up M4/ AR15 is by slamming (or mortaring) the stock directly into the ground while pulling down on the charging handle.

This is an extreme method, but very functional, and very quick. This method places obvious high stress on the stock. While I've never broken my duty CTR doing this, I've seen people break some of the cheaper commercial stocks. The increased protection here is surely worth it, especially for those who go into harms way.




http://stickman.rainierarms.com/galleries/Magpul%204/IMG_0273-A-1024-Stick.jpg

Stickman
5 August 2009, 21:36
The end is question becomes whether I would recommend the EBP or not. The answer is going to be up to the end user. I have an early CTR, and one of the first standard pads, and I have no plans on swapping it out. For my new duty carbine I am using the ACS stock, and I'll keep the EBP on it.

Your needs may be different than mine, but the increased LOP means that I can run the ACS stock collapsed all the way in while wearing armor. For me, thats a plus, and its worth keeping.



http://stickman.rainierarms.com/galleries/Magpul%204/IMG_0275-1024-Stick.jpg

Stickman
5 August 2009, 21:48
Additional information can be found at the below links.


http://www.magpul.com/pdfs/EnhancedButtpad.pdf

http://www.magpul.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=360&zenid=6add169f686956915445b71e70d1cb71




The discussion thread for this item can be found at the below link.

http://www.weaponevolution.com/forum/showthread.php?p=11809#post11809




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