9 Best Pistol Braces (AR-15, AK-47, & More)
Looking for the best pistol braces and wondering which one to go with?
Pistol braces have become very popular recently and allow shooters to make their firearms more compact without converting them into short-barrel rifles.
If you want to avoid additional regulations, then a pistol brace is the way to go. These firearm accessories are constantly under attack, so picking one up before any future bans is a good idea.
This article will list the best pistol braces for many different types of firearms.
Legal Disclaimer
If you have been around the topic of firearms for a while, you will know how complex the laws are around barrel length, what is considered a rifle, and what a pistol is.
The ATF strongly regulates short-barreled rifles (SBRs) due to the National Firearms Act (NFA).
Any rifle with a barrel length of 16″ or less fall under the NFA. This means that if you want any firearm with a barrel shorter than 16.5″, you will need a tax stamp and fill out additional paperwork for the ATF and wait a long time for them to approve it.
If you purchase an AR pistol, you cannot add a stock to the pistol.
Also, some states don’t even allow SBRs and let’s say you do get an SBR letter and tax stamp, there are additional rules on transporting the firearm.
It’s a headache, and the laws honestly don’t make sense. Unfortunately, the NFA is still the law, but hopefully, it will be repealed soon.
This is just a quick synopsis of the law on SBRs and I am not a lawyer, so I recommend doing your own research on the local laws in your area.
Also, the laws and rules are constantly changing, so stay informed and up-to-date on all of the regulations, as this is your responsibility.
What Is A Pistol Brace?
Because of how absurd the laws are, people and companies always innovate. A pistol brace is designed for disabled people to operate and effectively shoot an AR pistol or similar-style firearm.
These pistol braces look very similar to a traditional stock but have a gap on the underside with a strap that you can attach the weapon to your arm.
Technically it is not a stock, but to the untrained eye or people ignorant of firearms, they look the same.
Before pistol braces came along, AR pistols had the buffer tube sticking out, which was aesthetically unpleasing. From a visual standpoint, pistol braces look great on pistols.
Now, regarding how you use the pistol brace, I will not comment on that.
With all of that being said, here are the best pistol braces I recommend.
Best Pistol Braces
Below are the best pistol braces for AR-15s, AK-47s, & some common pistol-caliber carbines.
Also included is the Sig MCX.
1. SB Tactical SBA3
Designed for all platforms capable of accepting a mil-spec carbine receiver extension, the SB Tactical SBA3 is 5-position adjustable, dramatically enhances versatility, and features a minimalist design with an integral, ambidextrous QD sling socket.
This minimalist brace is still very solid with a tight lockup. This is also the most popular pistol brace for AR platforms.
I have seen it sold in four different colors, and is fairly priced.
SB Tactical has a very in-depth Specifications Sheet on its website that lists all of the compatible firearms.
The SBA3 Adjustable Stabilizing Brace enhances the usability of the firearm by adding a third point of contact.
Featuring a minimalist design, this pistol brace is engineered to fit all platforms capable of accepting a mil-spec carbine receiver extension.
- All platforms capable of accepting a mil-spec carbine extension
- 6.0″
- 6.75″, 7.6″, 8.25″, 8.75″, 9.5″
- 1.0″
- 6.75 oz
- Black, FDE, OD Green, Stealth Gray
- 1.8″
Click Here to check the current prices of the SB Tactical SBA3
2. Maximum Defense Industries PDW
Perfect for PDW pistols, the Maxim Defense Industries PDW gives you the adjustments needed to shoot your AR pistol more comfortably and makes your pistol more compact for easier transport.
You get the same durability and features built on the same housing as the CQB stocks.
The Maxim PDW Stock features built-in anti-rotational sling mounts on each side of the stock housing.
The housing and the stock are made of 7075 aluminum for maximum strength-to-weight performance.
One-hand operation is possible with the Maxim collapse lever. The take-down lever is knurled for positive gripping when hands are wet or wearing gloves.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Maxim Defense Industries |
| Length: | 9.24 in, 5.375 in, 6.875 in, 8.375 in |
| Weight: | 18.59 oz |
| Fabric/Material: | 7075 Aluminum Alloy |
| Condition: | New |
Features:
- You can use your existing bolt carrier group. Just select the one that suits your needs.
- The Maxim Defense CQB Pistol PDW Brace uses the SB Tactical Arm Brace and easily installs on mil-spec AR15 lowers. Interchangeable with other Buttstock Assemblies
- DO NOT MODIFY A BCG TO MAKE IT COMPATIBLE. DO NOT REMOVE THE WEIGHT FROM 9MM BCGS. JP DOES NOT RECOMMEND FOR SELECT FIRE.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Maxim Defense Industries PDW
3. SB Tactical SBA4
Designed for all platforms capable of accepting a mil-spec carbine extension, the SB Tactical SBA4 adjustable brace greatly enhances the usability of the firearm by adding a third point of contact.
The SBA4 Pistol Brace is improved with new features that make it much more ergonomic and comfortable to use on any pistol that can accept a Mil-Spec buffer tube.
It features 5 positions of adjustment and has an ambidextrous QD sling socket. Another improvement this model has is the M4 style shape that improves rigidity.
The adjustable strap wraps around your forearm, and the adjustable length of pull makes it easy to use no matter your arm’s length.
Or simply use it braced against your cheek for more accurate shots.
Specs:
- Compatibility: All platforms accepting Mil-Spec Carbine extension
- Finish: Black
- Weight: 8 oz.
- Length: 7”
- Width: 2.25”
- Strap Width: 1”
Features:
- Based on the popular SBM4 brace design
- Includes mil-spec carbine receiver extension
- Integral, ambidextrous QD sling socket
- It comes with an adjustable nylon strap for a custom fit
- ATF compliant
- Veteran designed
- Made in the USA
Click Here to check the current prices of the SB Tactical SBA4
4. Dead Foot Arms Tailhook
The Dead Foot Arms Tailhook is an extremely compact PDW Style brace that utilizes the Modified Cycle System and any standard M16-style bolt carrier group.
Collapsed length of the brace is 3.9. While compact, it is still very versatile, allowing for button-free deployment and six lengths of pull settings.
At full extension, the length reaches 12.6″ from the trigger, keeping it comfortable for shooters of all sizes.
The SCW 4 Brace features an ergonomic design that uses dual rails that are offset to not interfere with weapon controls or function.
The system includes a complete brace assembly, receiver extension, adjustment rail, recoil springs, and plunger. The system weight is 18 oz.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Dead Foot Arms |
| Color: | Black |
| Length: | 3.9 in |
| Weight: | 13.9 oz |
Features:
- Left-handed cheek rest
- Dual antirotation QD Mounts
- Hard stop at last LOP
- Dual rails for added stability
Click Here to check the current prices of the Dead Foot Arms Tailhook
5. SB Tactical SBM47
Compatible with most AK-47 receiver variants, the SB Tactical SBM47 Pistol Stabilizing Brace is a compact, lightweight pistol brace designed for improved comfort and control with pistol-length firearms.
This stabilizing brace comes ready to install and features a soft, rubberized body with an adjustable nylon strap designed to wrap securely around your arm to provide increased stability, improved accuracy, and usability.
The SBM47 Pistol Stabilizing Brace enhances any AK pistol build with a slim profile arm brace for improved accuracy when firing your AK-style pistol.
The SBM47 is a tough elasto-polymer arm brace and includes a metal AK adapter and mounting tube.
The improved ergonomics of this brace enhance the handling and versatility of your AK pistol without changing its classification. This model has a black finish and is compatible with most AK-style pistols.
Specs:
- Brand: SB Tactical
- Category: Handgun Parts
- Model: AK Brace
- Series: SBM47
- Type: Brace
- Finish: Black
- Material: Elasto-Polymer
- Dimensions: 11.6″ L x 1.6″ W
Features:
- Compatible with most AK receivers
- Soft, rubberized brace
- Non-telescoping design
- Adjustable nylon strap
- It provides increased stability, improved accuracy, and usability
Click Here to check the current prices of the SB Tactical SBM47
6. SB Tactical AKTF
The SB Tactical AKTF features a slim, left-side-folding hinge with a pull-through design which ideally compliments AK pistol builds.
The AKTF is a complete assembly, ready to install. It provides you with all the advantages of a pistol with improved control by adding an additional point of contact for stabilization.
It is designed to aid the AK pistol user by strapping the brace to the forearm and/or using it as leverage to provide support and stability when shooting with one hand.
This brace is designed for AK pistols without a QD adapter at the rear of the receiver. The folding design of the AKTF Pistol Brace increases the versatility of AK platform pistols without adding to the firearm’s overall length for storage, transportation, and operation without extending the brace.
With the brace extended, the AKTF aids stability without adding unwanted bulk and unnecessary weight that could interfere with one-handed operation. The SB Tactical AKTF Pistol Brace is a proven, popular, cost-effective solution for providing stability to AK platform pistols.
Specs:
- Brand: SB Tactical
- Category: Braces
- Model: AKTF
- Series: Brace
- Stock Finish: Black
- Firearm Fit: AK-47
- OAL: 11.75″
- Stock Description: Left Side Folding
- Stock Material: Synthetic
- Weight: 11.50 oz
Features:
- Complete assembly, ready-to-install
- Fits standard AK47/74 pistols (no adaptor required)
- Left side-folding for compact storage and transport
- Advanced steel hinge design locks in both folded and extended positions
- A pull-through design offering quick deployment
- Rigid polymer substrate with flexible arm cuff
- Integral QD sling socket
- US veteran designed and proudly made in the USA
Click Here to check the current prices of the SB Tactical AKTF
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7. SB Tactical SBT EVO G2
The SB Tactical SBT EVO-G2 CZ Scorpion Pistol Brace is a premium, high-quality component for your CZ Scorpion EVO.
It boasts an aluminum and polymer construction for strength and durability that exceeds most brands.
This pistol brace offers ultimate versatility with its integral side folding design. The SB Tactical SBTEVO features a minimalist design to help maintain a weapon with a small footprint for easy packing and storage.
The SB Tactical SBTEVO CZ Scorpion Pistol Brace comes with a brace and adjustable nylon strap for less felt recoil and accuracy.
- CZ Scorpion 3+, CZ Scorpion Evo
- 9.5″
- 9.1 oz
- 1.4″
- 1.0″
- Black
Features:
- Minimalist design
- CZ Scorpion EVO compatible
- Integral folding design
- Aluminum and polymer construction
- Brace and adjustable nylon strap
Click Here to check the current prices of the SB Tactical SBT EVO-G2
8. F5 MFG Modular Brace
The latest advancement in bolt-on braces is the F5 MFG Modular Brace System combo for the CZ Scorpion EVO.
This add-on brace system is designed for the F5 MBS attachment. Use it with or without a strap for ultimate control.
If you have a pistol that needs a brace, the MBS with Cyber Arm fits the bill, putting a nice tail on your pistol.
The Cyber arm allows you to take any Scorpion Evo and builds it into a braced pistol.
The MBS with Cyber Arm is ready to go out of the box. Machined out of billet Al to exacting specifications and an ergonomic, one size fits all forearm section.
F5 also makes these pistol braces for B&T weapons.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | F5 MFG |
| Color: | Black |
| Gun Type: | Rifle |
| Weight: | 2 lb |
| Max Width: | 3 in |
| Cavity Depth: | 2 in |
| Fabric/Material: | Billet 6061 Aluminum |
| Caliber: | 9mm Caliber |
| Gun Model: | CZ Scorpion EVO 3 A1 |
| Strap: | No |
| Gun Make: | CZ |
Features:
- CZ Scorpion Evo9 Compatible Adapter
- Left-side folding brace for compact storage
- Ergonomic forearm cradling geometry
- Ready to accept strap for extra control
- Direct fit with all CZ SCORPION EVO firearms
- Strap not included
- Cyber Arm Brace Included
- 6061 AL And Nylon 6/6 Polymer Construction
- Integrated Locking Hinge
- Adjustable Cheekwell
- 7 Adjustable Length Positions
- 3in Length of Pull
Click Here to check the current prices of the F5 MFG Modular Brace System
9. Strike Industries MPX/MCX Stabilizer
Unlock the full capabilities of your firearm by outfitting it with this Strike Industries MPX/MCX Stabilizer. These Rifle Parts designed by Strike Industries are adjustable to 3 positions to accommodate your preferred shooting style.
Easily enhance your accuracy by gaining better control of your weapon with this drop-in Strike Industries MPX/MCX Pistol Stabilizer that requires no gunsmithing or modifications.
The slim, low-profile design won’t interfere with the rest of your build, and its ergonomic construction allows for full mobility in the field.
Operate the stabilizer with the ambidextrous push button built for any type of shooter to find your perfect length. There’s also a sling loop for additional attachments.
Specs:
| Manufacturer: | Strike Industries |
| Color: | Black |
| Weight: | 15.7 oz |
| Condition: | New |
| Gun Model: | SIG Sauer MCX, SIG Sauer MPX |
| Gun Make: | SIG Sauer |
Features:
- 3 Position Adjustable
- Slim design, low-profile footprint
- Enhanced Pistol Stabilizing Interface
- Drop-In compatible with Sig MCX/MPX
Click Here to check the current prices of the Strike Industries MPX/MCX Stabilizer
Best Pistol Brace FAQ
Will the ATF ban pistol braces?
As of my writing this, they have not been banned. They are always on the agenda and have gone back and forth. I predict they will keep attempting to ban pistol braces.
Are there adjustable pistol braces?
Yes, many companies that manufacture pistol braces make them adjustable. Three positions are the most common, and they also make foldable braces.
Do pistol braces require a tax stamp from the ATF?
As of my writing this, pistol braces do not require a tax stamp or any additional paperwork.
What is considered an SBR?
A short-barreled rifle (SBR) is defined by the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA) as a shoulder-fired, rifled firearm made from a rifle with a barrel length of fewer than 16 inches or overall length of fewer than 26 inches or a handgun fitted with a buttstock and a barrel shorter than 16 inches in length.
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)
- SB Tactical SBA3
- Maximum Defense Industries PDW
- SB Tactical SBA4
- Dead Foot Arms Tailhook
- SB Tactical SBM47
- SB Tactical AKTF
- SB Tactical SBT EVO G2
- F5 MFG Modular Brace
- Strike Industries MPX/MCX Stabilizer
Have you ever used a pistol brace?
Which pistol brace did you decide to go with?
Let me know in the comments below.
Further reading on Firstworldcrusader.com: Are you interested in learning more about guns and gear?
This list of the Best Red Dot Sights can help you choose the best optic for your rifle.
In addition, here are the Best AR-15 Upgrades & Accessories that can help you get more out of your primary battle rifle.
