Disappointments on MagPul... Suggestions

[Myk9noseknows]

Well I went with the majority of what users have said as well as the reviews written online and on GunTests. I purchased an Armalite M4 LEC and decided to start with upgrades to the pistol grip and the adjustable buttstock.
I bought the Magpul MAID grip and the Magpul CTR adjustable stock w/ friction lock.
The CTR does not take out all of the wiggle, and I've posted as such. I've decided that for the money I spent, I want zero wiggle. I think I have that figured out.
But the MAID grip is not what I expected. First of all, two of the different sized replacement straps cannot be used on my receiver. So with what is left over, it doesn't fit my hand much better than the factory grip. So again, for the money I spent on the Magpul name, I really expect a better fit.

So I need some suggestions on a pistol grip upgrade. I've heard a few people say Hogue and I think that type of material would be nice since I have it on a few pistols and like it. However, I'd like to have adjustable inserts to allow adjustments for perfect fit to my hand, (yeah I want my cake and to eat it too if possible). I don't have access to a shop where I can try out different brands, and I don't really enjoy ordering online only to have to send it back for a refund (such an expensive pain).
So if you have links to different products, I'd appreciate it. Or I'm sure Midway/Brownells have a lot of products, I'd just like to hear positive suggestions.

[Palmguy]

I've never heard of components from the MIAD not working on an in-spec receiver (or an out of spec for that matter but I digress). There is a thread on M4Carbine.net somewhere about the CTR lockup not being absolutely perfect on some RE's (tolerances could be in the wrong direction on one or both parts). I'll see if I can dig that one up .

[ARin]

call magpul direct, see what they recommend. if the lower reciever is IN SPEC, all of the straps should fit with the MIAD. if the buffer tube is IN SPEC, the CTR will not rattle or wiggle.

Armalite has a rep for using their own random specs, which befuddles me since they have been in the AR game for quite some time.

[KEVWYO]

Dang ... sorry to hear about your dissapointment in Magpul. Love the MIAD I have. Mags are great as well.

That being said if the MIAD could have a comfort level that the Hogue grip has they could really do well.

[HPD SRT]

Originally Posted by ARin

call magpul direct, see what they recommend. if the lower reciever is IN SPEC, all of the straps should fit with the MIAD. if the buffer tube is IN SPEC, the CTR will not rattle or wiggle.

Armalite has a rep for using their own random specs, which befuddles me since they have been in the AR game for quite some time.

So what is "IN SPEC" for the CTR. I was thinking about getting one for my Model 1 build. I have a set of calipers eagerly waiting. I know Model 1 is considered a cheapo so thats why I ask so I can compare.

Originally Posted by Myk9noseknows

The CTR does not take out all of the wiggle, and I've posted as such. I've decided that for the money I spent, I want zero wiggle.

So how much wiggle are we talkin?

[faawrenchbndr]

I have a ArmaLite M15 A4 LEC.
I have a MIAD grip installed, all back-straps fit correctly.

[thebigx]

i dont know about you, but all the magpul stuff i've order has always been top notch stuff in my book... i guess that's why i have the UBR on my wish/waiting list and also another CTR. maybe i just haven't gotten one that slipped through quality control.

i think a call to magpul customer service would help you out, as mentioned by arrin above.

[cozy338]

Are you sure it's the CTR that is wiggling??? I've got one on an Armalite stripped lower with Del-Ton parts kit & it locks up solid on the tube. But, if I twist it the entire lower will "wiggle" on the pivot pins.

It has absolutely no effect on the reliable operation of my rifle.

I can't remember if you have posted that you've measured your extension/buffer tube to make sure it's in spec??

[spoolup]

Yes CTRs may have a little wiggle. I have 4 now, and the one on the DPMS 308 wiggles just a hair, but NOTHING like the standard M4 style stock did. As for the grip... best bet to find one you like is to go to a local shop and hold each and find what fits you. The MIAD is popular because of name as well as the option of the strapping to help it fit a larger majority of operators. Stocks, scopes and grips are like cars.... you should try them all and decide which one(s) you really like.

[Liquid Rhino]

Sounds to me more like your particular rifle's dimensions might be the ones to blame. ArmaLite builds a quality product, no doubt, but sometimes things slip thru the cracks in any organization. I can't imagine 2 separate products (with good QC) having issues at the same time. If you're running a commercial stock on a thinner diameter milspec tube, you're definitely gonna get some wiggle. Also, assuming you have mated the stock to the correct tube diameter, some will still exhibit a slight bit of free play. This wouldn't explain the grip issue, tho.

Are the grips' fitment issues due to it being too large in areas or having gaps (too small)? If an area is too large for correct fitment, you might try take a dremel at a low speed to smoothen it out - It's under $30 & molded plastic, so you won't lose out too much or get discoloration. I burred down my TangoDown grip's rear area to an angle (where the webbing between your thumb & index would land) as it was extremely sharp & it looks like it came like that from the factory.

Keep us posted.