Here are the 6 best AR-15 pistol braces based on design, aesthetics, durability, and price. These work with mil-spec or commercial buffer tubes or it comes with proprietary designs.
*Be sure to check your local state law before buying a pistol brace
Note: As of November 2023 the ATF has updated rules regarding pistol braces, Get updates here
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SB Tactical SBA3
SB Tactical SBA3 is by far the hottest selling AR15 pistol brace on the market for its direct attachment to a standard buffer tube for adjustable positions.
Adjustable Position - Change length of pull to your preferred configuration
Good Aesthetics - The SBA3 looks and feel like a First Tactical low drag stock that look great on most AR15 pistol builds
Easy Install - Fits any 6 Position MilSpec buffer tube (When ready to SBR your AR, just replace the brace with a stock without messing with the buffer tube)
Strike Industries PDW brace ranks number 2 on our list for its slick look on any highly customized PDW style AR15 pistols for tight space maneuverability and a comfortable cheek-weld and stabilizing interface.
Ultra Compact - Retract the brace all the way in for much more compact concealment or PDW carry
Better Vehicle & Tight Space Maneuverability - It doesn't add burden when operating in and out of tight spaces by eliminates any snag hazards and abrasion zones
Quick Deployment Latch - Simply pull and lock the length of pull
Standard Bolt Carrier - Works with standard length BCG
Maxim Defense PDW brace is very similar to the Strike Industries, but it features a completely different buffer system for different builds. The brace features the same adjustable length of pull as other PDW stocks, and it can be easily replaced with a legal Maxim Defense stock when SBR form is ready.
Different Buffer Weight - H1, H2 & Pistol buffers can be used for centerfire or pistol caliber ammunition
QD Sling Ready - Attach sling to built in anti-rotational sling mounts on each side of the stock housing
Weight: 18.59 oz 7075 T6 aluminum
Length:
5.375” closed
6.875” 1st position
8.375” 2nd position
9.24” fully extended
The Tailhook is a ATF approved pistol brace design that uses a rigid foldout support arm design to counterbalance muzzle weight to stabilize an AR pistol against the shooter’s forearm.
The Tailhook pistol braces are much easier to operate than other braces on the market because it's easier to wrap it around the forearm.
Proprietary Buffer Tube - It accepts any carbine length spring and buffer
Greater Flexibility - Adjust the brace on the fly to different shooters.
Works On Other Pistol Builds - Billet machined design work on AR15 pistols as well as other buffer tube configured pistol builds
The Tailhook Mod 2 is an upgraded version of the original Tailhook. This one features a stock alike feel.
Adjustable Length of Pull - Pull in and out to 5 different positions like the SB Tactical SBA3
Much More Durable - High impact reinforced polymer in 3 colors, it remains light weight and rigid.
Compatible With Existing BCG - Keep using the same carbine length spring and buffer
Shockwave Blade - Best For The Money
The Shockwave blade brace is the best for the money pistol brace. It's a slim fin alike design that gets the job done, but it may not feature the look.
Even though this was the very first design on the market, but we highly suggest checking out the Magpul BSL pistol brace
If you want other upgrades, please check out our AR15 accessories guide here
FAQ
Are Pistol Braces Legal ?
As of November 2023 the ATF has updated rules regarding pistol braces, Get updates here
Can You Shoulder The Brace Like A Rifle?
At this point (2023), we cannot provide a definitive answer as the ATF continue to change the legal terms for pistol braces.
Should You Shoulder The Pistol While Zeroing The Optic?
Always stabilize the firearm and apply good shooting fundamentals when zeroing an optic.