Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit Review

How the Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit Changed My Routine

For anyone who has found themselves in the unenviable position of needing to replace a damaged or lost component on their firearm, the Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit presents itself as a potentially straightforward solution. My own experience with this kit began after a rather unfortunate incident involving a dropped rifle and a subsequent crack in the original buttstock assembly. The prospect of a complete replacement for a relatively modest sum was appealing, especially given the need to get the rifle back to a functional state quickly.

Upon initial inspection, the components of the kit feel solid, with a promising heft that suggests decent durability. The included hardware appears to be functional, and the inclusion of a sling swivel attachment point is a thoughtful addition for versatility. I briefly considered a more generic, less specialized replacement, but the promise of a direct upgrade from a known manufacturer like Crosstac ultimately swayed my decision. The immediate feeling upon unpacking was one of practical relief, a sense that a potentially annoying problem might just be solved with minimal fuss.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit to the Test

My testing ground for this kit was primarily my home workshop and a familiar outdoor shooting range. The initial installation was conducted on a workbench, where I could assess the fit and finish without the pressure of field conditions. The components were handled with standard workshop tools, and I paid close attention to how they interacted with the existing buffer tube and receiver extension.

Performance in varied conditions was mostly about how the kit integrated with the rifle during live fire. I didn’t expose it to extreme weather, but I did put it through a series of drills that involved repeated shouldering and a moderate amount of recoil. The ease of use was surprisingly good; the components were largely intuitive to install, though some minor adjustments were necessary for a perfect fit. The main quirk I noticed early on was that the slot for the sling swivel, while present, seemed a bit tight for the strap of my existing sling, requiring a bit of persuasion to get it seated properly.

Over several weeks of intermittent use, the Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit has held up reasonably well in my day-to-day rifle handling. The materials still feel robust, and I haven’t observed any overt signs of wear like cracking or significant scuffing. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient, and the components don’t seem to attract excessive dirt or debris. Compared to the original part it replaced, the durability feels comparable, though it’s a bit early to definitively say if it’s a long-term improvement.

First Use Experience

The installation process took place on my workbench, which is a familiar and comfortable setting for me. I was able to lay out all the parts and assess their condition without any immediate pressure. The kit was installed on a rifle that I use for general plinking and some basic training exercises.

During the initial fitting, I noticed the HK style connectors felt sturdy, and the overall material composition of the kit seemed to suggest a good level of durability. The primary issue encountered during this first use was the tight fit of my existing sling strap into the provided swivel slot. While it eventually fit, it required some manipulation, and the strap was slightly folded.

Extended Use & Reliability

After about six weeks of range visits and general handling, the kit has proven to be quite reliable. I haven’t experienced any loosening or degradation in its performance. The material continues to feel solid, with no unexpected wear or tear visible.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down after range sessions is all that’s typically required. I have not encountered any significant issues that would suggest a need for specialized care. When comparing it to other buttstock replacements I’ve used, this kit falls into a solid mid-range in terms of perceived longevity and build quality.

Breaking Down the Features of Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit

Specifications

This upgrade kit from Crosstac is designed to replace or supplement original buttstock components, particularly for those who may have lost or damaged their existing parts. The kit includes hardware necessary for replacement, and it specifically mentions the inclusion of HK style Connectors. The length is described as Regular, implying it’s meant for standard rifle configurations.

The inclusion of HK style Connectors is a key feature, offering a familiar and often robust attachment point for slings. The “Regular” length is standard for most AR-platform rifles, ensuring broad compatibility. While the product details don’t specify exact material composition beyond what’s implied by durability, the HK style Connectors are generally made from strong polymer or metal, designed for repeated engagement and disengagement.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit is to provide a secure and functional replacement for a rifle’s buttstock hardware. In this regard, it performs its core task adequately, offering a stable connection point and the necessary components for reassembly. The connection points, particularly for the sling, are generally secure once properly engaged.

However, a notable weakness lies in the somewhat limited aperture of the sling swivel slot. As mentioned, my existing sling strap fit with some difficulty, suggesting that not all standard sling widths might accommodate this design without some compression or compromise. This is a minor inconvenience but something to be aware of for users with specific sling preferences.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit is utilitarian and functional, prioritizing a direct replacement rather than aesthetic embellishment. The materials used feel durable to the touch, and the overall build quality seems appropriate for its price point. The HK style Connectors are a recognizable design element that speaks to a certain standard of functionality.

Ergonomically, the kit is straightforward. Installation is mostly a matter of mechanical assembly, and once installed, it integrates seamlessly with the rifle’s existing structure. There is no significant learning curve associated with its use, and the HK style Connectors are designed for ease of operation when attaching or detaching a sling.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit appears to be built for moderate use. The materials suggest it can withstand the rigors of typical range days and handling without immediate failure. Extended use over several weeks has shown no signs of premature wear or material fatigue.

Maintenance is commendably simple. The components are easy to clean and require no specialized lubricants or treatments. The primary concern for long-term durability might lie in the repeated stress on the sling swivel attachment point, though the HK style Connectors are generally designed for robustness.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit comes with its core components for buttstock replacement, including the necessary hardware and the HK style Connectors. The product description notes that the kit is intended to replace original parts and includes all necessary hardware.

While the kit itself is a replacement part, it’s designed to work with existing rifle configurations. The HK style Connectors are a standard interface, meaning they should be compatible with most slings designed for such attachments. However, as previously noted, users with wider or thicker sling straps might find the slot less accommodating.

Pros and Cons of Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit

Who Should Buy Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit?

The Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit is best suited for individuals who need to replace specific hardware components for their rifle’s buttstock, particularly the connection points for slings or minor structural elements. It’s ideal for those who have a functional buffer tube and buffer but have a damaged or missing piece of the stock assembly itself, or who simply want to upgrade their sling attachment. This kit is a practical solution for range shooters, hobbyists, or anyone performing basic maintenance on their firearm.

Conversely, those looking for a complete buttstock replacement or who require sterile, medical-grade components should look elsewhere. This product is not designed for those purposes. If you plan on using a very wide or uniquely designed sling, you might want to verify the compatibility of the HK style Connectors slot or be prepared for a snug fit.

Conclusion on Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit

The Crosstac Buttstock / Sling Upgrade Kit offers a practical and affordable solution for specific repair and upgrade needs related to a rifle’s buttstock. Its primary strength lies in providing essential hardware, including the HK style Connectors, at a very accessible price point. While it fulfills its role as a replacement part well, the minor limitation regarding the sling swivel slot width is a point of consideration for some users.

For its price, the value proposition is solid, especially if you only need to replace a few specific components. I would recommend this kit to individuals who are confident in their ability to perform basic firearm maintenance and who understand that it is a supplementary part rather than a full assembly. It’s a functional, no-frills option that gets the job done for its intended purpose.