Chris Bonesteel here, so obviously biased. However I think you should take a closer look at both our m4 stocks and the ace before you decide.
Here is a thread with side by side comparison. Note that this is old thread with our version 1 hinge, our current version of hinge is 1/4" shorter(height) and about 1/2 oz lighter.
https://www.ar15.com/forums/ak-47/Si...ks_/64-151763/
As for extending the mechanism, that is only true if you unfairly do not count the threaded interface between "adapter" and tube as part of the mechanism. Our integrated m4 tubes allow the stock to collapse to the same length as any fixed threaded m4 tube. And significantly shorter than any folding threaded m4 tube.
As for looking gnarly, thats opinion, and I wont attempt to sway yours.
Our stocks definitely do not lock in the folded position, however they are held in place by a cam and spring. So they can be easily deployed, but do not just flop around. Note that standard ace hinges also do not lock folded, and for that "feature" you would need the pushbutton.
As for ace and marketing. You missed the boat on that one. They used to market heavily, and for several years were discussed thouroughly, as being the best option for folding stocks. They have since fallen out of favor, for several reasons. For one, the lockup on them is not particularly solid, all have at least some, and some have significant wobble when locked, typically worse in the push button versions. Another important reason favorability for them has died out is the attachment method, using 2 pairs of 10-32 screws to attach everything is certainly less than ideal, the screws are known to come loose and can then snap off easily. There is of course also cutting off the tang, and while this does not reflect upon the quality of finished installation, many are hesitant to do something irreversible to their rifles.
If folding is not important, and you are looking for fixed attachment of m4 stock, I would still suggest you stay away from ace. And would recommend leaning towards a vltor or caa style tube. There is no reason for the added weight and length of using a threaded tube.
Bookmarks