AND STABILIZING BRACES ON RIFLES, SUBMACHINE GUNS, PISTOLS AND SHOTGUNS
By Nick Jacobellis
One of the more significant advancements that has been made in the firearms industry, has
involved the installation of side folding, under-folding, and retractable/telescoping stocks on a variety
of rifles, submachine guns, as well as on certain shotguns. In recent years, a device known as a
Stabilizing Brace has also been made available, for use on certain firearms that are legally designated
as a pistol. While we may take this for granted today, it is important to remember, that for a very long
time, rifles and all “shoulder fired capable” weapons were fitted with a wooden stock. This included a
number of pistol caliber submachine guns.
The primary benefit of using a folding, or a retractable/telescoping stock, involves the ability to
transport and operate a more compact firearm. Certain firearms are also a bit lighter to transport, carry
and utilize in confined spaces, when they are equipped with a folding or collapsible/retractable stock
that is manufactured in lightweight polymer. In recent years, the use of a polymer Stabilizing Brace has
made it possible for legally armed end users to operate firearms that are legally designated as a “pistol.”
Using a lightweight Stabilizing Brace, like the type made by SB Tactical, makes it possible to more
accurately engage targets from a standing unsupported position, especially when engaging targets at
longer distances.
IN THE BEGINNING
The first rifle caliber firearm that was fitted with a very well made side folding metal (wire)
stock, was issued to U.S. Army paratroopers during World War II. The Inland Model M1A1 .30 Caliber
Carbine was ideally suited for use by airborne troops, who were dropped by parachute or delivered into
a combat zone in a glider. The Inland Manufacturing Division of General Motors manufactured
140,000 M1A1 Model .30 Caliber Carbines during World War II.
As someone who trained with a government issued .30 Caliber M1 Carbine, while attending
the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Brunswick, Georgia, who also owns a
WWII era M1A1 Carbine, I can attest to the pros and cons of the rifle that is commonly called the
“Paratrooper Model.” The main reason why the Inland Model M1A1 was ideally suited for use by U.S.
Airborne troops, was the compact nature of the design, when the metal “wire” stock was in the folded
position. As an added benefit, the Inland Model M1A1 Carbine could also be operated and fired with
the side folding metal wire stock in the folded position. This was such a popular design, that a number
of manufacturers produced post WWII era M1 Carbines, that were fitted with a side folding metal wire
stock. Perhaps the best specimen of a post World War II M1 Carbine, that is equipped with a side
folding stock, is manufactured by the Auto Ordnance Corporation.
THE REISING
The .45 ACP Caliber M50, M55 and the M60 Reising Submachine Gun was briefly issued to
certain U.S. Marines during the early days of WWII. The M55 Reising was fitted with a side folding
stock. Despite the lower cost of production and certain innovative features and lighter weight
construction, the poor performance of the Reising in combat caused this firearm to be withdrawn from
field use.
THE M3 GREASE GUN
One of the most interesting pistol caliber submachine guns used by Allied Forces during World
War II was the .45 ACP caliber U.S. made M3 Grease Gun. The M3 Grease Gun was a very unique
design, that was required to be manufactured using all stamped and welded metal parts that required
very little finishing. The M3 was designed to be a less expensive alternative to the Thompson
submachine gun during WWII. The M3 was also designed to operate with a slower rate of fire and
utilized a metal 30 round magazine.
Even though a telescoping metal wire stock was incorporated in the design, the M3 was often
fired with the stock collapsed. This was made possible by the operator holding the pistol grip with his
strong hand, while gripping the area around the magazine-well with his weak hand.
The M3 utilized a throw lever style cocking handle to load the chamber and clear stoppages.
The M3A1 Model of the famous Grease Gun replaced the throw lever charging handle with two
indentations in the bolt assembly, that were used by the operator to retract the bolt.
While the M3 was primarily chambered for use by U.S. and Allied military personnel in .45
ACP caliber, a 9mm M3 was made for use by U.S. Office of Strategic Services (OSS) supported
(Allied) resistance units operating in German occupied countries. The 9mm M3 variants were
specifically chambered in the 9mm caliber, so resistance fighters could utilize captured German 9mm
ammunition. Over 600,000 M3 and over 40,000 M3A1s were manufactured at a cost of $15 dollars
each. M3s and M3A1 were used in combat from 1944 to the end of WWII and were later used in the
Korean War, with some Grease Guns being used in the Vietnam War, as well by tank screws during
Operation Desert Storm. As someone who has field tested various submachine guns, the M3 is a
personal favorite.
THE GERMAN MP40
Even though the Germans used other 9mm sub guns, including captured Allied weapons, the
MP40 or Maschinenpistole 40, was the most widely used 9mm submachine gun in the German
Armed Forces during WWII. The MP40 was another blowback operated firearm that fired from an
open bolt. The MP40 was able to be transported/carried and fired with the well made metal stock
folded. The stock on the MP40 was considered an “under-folder,” because the stock could kept folded
under the frame of the MP40, which made this submachine gun more compact. The MP40 could also
be fired with the metal stock extended and locked into the open position.
The MP40 has been incorrectly referred to as The Schmeisser. This occurred when Allied troops
recovered MP40s on the battlefield and the only name that was found on this weapon, that was located
on the magazines, was Schmeisser. While Mr. Yugo Schmeisser was a German arms inventor who
designed the magazines that were used in the MP40, the weapon that Schmeisser was actually famous
for inventing was the MP18. Much like the U.S. made M3 & M3A1 Grease Gun, the MP40 was also
manufactured using a number of metal stamped parts.
THE VIETNAM ERA
During the Vietnam War, the select fire M16A1 with a fixed polymer stock and a 20 inch barrel
chambered in .223/5.56 caliber was the full size general issue main battle rifle. The original AR15 and
the Colt M16A1 initially utilized a 20 round lightweight metal box magazine. A higher capacity 30
round metal magazine eventually became standard issue for the M16.
To make the M16 a bit more compact, a shorter version known as the Colt CAR15 XM177 was
manufactured. The Colt CAR15 with fitted with a retractable polymer/plastic stock and a shorter 10
inch barrel. The CAR15 E2 version had an 11.5 inch barrel. During the Global War on Terrorism the
M4 variant with a 14.5 inch barrel became standard issue and eventually replaced the M16s with a
heavy 20 inch barrel as the primary U.S. (main) battle rifle. Optics and other accessories also became
standard issue and were widely used on military rifles and even on the patrol carbines that are currently
used by law enforcement officers. The Colt CAR 15 that I was issued during my career in the U.S.
Customs Service had a 16 inch barrel. This rifle was ideally suited for use in and out of interdiction
aircraft, while operating on vessels and while operating in more remote locations along a land border.
The most popular 9mm submachine gun used by certain U.S. Special Forces (Studies &
Observation Group aka SOG) personnel during the Vietnam War was the 9mm Carl Gustaf m/45B
known as The Swedish K. The Swedish K developed a sterling reputation for reliability while being
utilized in a harsh jungle environment. The 36 round box magazine and the relatively low rate of fire of
600 rounds a minute contributed to the ease in which the Swedish K could be effectively and accurately
wielded in battle. The Swedish K was also fitted with a side folding metal stock, that made this sub gun
more compact when the stock was folded.
When the Swedish government refused to sell additional m/45s to the U.S., Smith & Wesson
was approached to make a 9mm submachine gun. Even though the S&W M76 was not an exact copy of
the Swedish K, the Smith & Wesson sub gun shared the general appearance and method of operation of
the m/45. The adoption of the S&W M76 was short lived as different variants of the short barreled
carbines known as the CAR15 came into more widespread usage.
THE AK VARIANTS
The Cold War and the Vietnam War also saw the widespread use of fully automatic Communist
Block (COMBLOC) AK47s chambered in 7.62×39 caliber, that were fitted with a traditional wooden
stock, or an under-folding metal stock. The metal under-folder that is used in AK47s is similar in
design, to the metal under-folder that was used on the German MP40.
Several years after the adoption of the M16 and the Colt CAR15 by the U.S., the Russians
developed the 5.45×39 caliber that was used in the AK variant known as the AK74. While AK47s were
still in widespread circulation, the AK74 became the main battle rifle that the Russians carried during
their invasion and occupation of Afghanistan. The AK74 is also the main battle rifle that is being used
by both Russian and Ukrainian troops in the current conflict in Ukraine.
Much like the .223/5.56 caliber U.S. made AR15/M16/CAR15/M4, the Soviet made AK74 is
chambered in a “lighter” 5.45×39 caliber. The U.S. designed 7.62×51 (.308) NATO caliber ammunition
and the Soviet 7.62×39 caliber ammunition are both heavier .30 caliber bullets, that weigh more than
the .223/5.56 NATO and the 5.45×39 calibers. The benefit of utilizing a battle rifle chambered in the
U.S. made .223/5.56 NATO caliber and or the Soviet designed 5.45×39 caliber, is the ability of combat
troops to more comfortably carry a larger combat load of ammunition. Rifles chambered in .223/5.56
NATO and 5.45×39 also produce less felt recoil than rifles chambered in .30 caliber ammunition
(7.62×51/.308 and 7.62×39.) Unlike the AK47 that was manufactured with wooden stocks and under-
folding metal stocks, the bulk of the AK74 rifles are fitted with a standard wooden or a polymer stock.
That said, the wooden “furniture” or stock on AK74s is not considered to be all that heavy.
As someone who purchased fully automatic AK47s from an unlicensed arms dealer, while
working undercover along the Mexican Border, who has also field tested various semi automatic
AK47s, I personally find the models with the stamped receivers and the fixed stocks to be the lightest
The Chinese wooden AK47 stocks are also a tad shorter in length and are personally preferred. The
AKs with milled receivers, like those made by Zastava (in former Yugoslavia), that are equipped with
an under-folding metal stock are the heaviest AK variants. That said, regardless of the type of receiver
(stamped or milled), AKs that are fitted with an under-folding metal stock are more compact.
I have also field tested and trained with semi automatic Bulgarian AK74s, one with wooden
“furniture” and one with a side folding metal (wire) stock. Just like every other AK variants, both of
these rifles proved to be flawlessly reliable and easy to carry in the field. As stated above, the two main
differences between the AK47 and the AK74 involve recoil and the weight of the ammunition. Utilizing
polymer magazines, as opposed to all steel AK magazines, can also aid in reducing the weight of your
combat load. One comment on magazines involves the rather steep cost of original AK74 magazines.
The good news is, that the Magpul AK74 magazines that I purchased are as reliable as the original
Bulgarian AK74 magazines that I purchased, when these magazines were reasonably priced.
The AKS-74U Krinkov or Krink is a shortened version of the AK74 chambered in 5.45×39
caliber, that was manufactured with a very well made side folding triangular shaped metal stock. The
The Krinkov has an 8.1 inch long barrel, weighs under 5 pounds, is just under 30 inches with the side
folding metal stock extended and is just under 20 inches long with the stock in the folded position.
While field testing an AKS-74, I found the sights to be easier to acquire than the sights that are used on
full size AK47 and AK74 rifles. This doesn’t meant that I am unable to effectively use traditional AK47
style sights. It means that my eyes find the Krink style sights to be more “user friendly” and easier to
acquire. The Krinkov is a compact rifle caliber firearm that is well suited to be used by personnel who
operate in tight quarters.
A company called Zastava manufactures some of the most robust and rugged AK variants in
various military calibers. One of my personal favorites is the Zastava ZPAP85; a firearm that is
designated as a pistol, that can once again be legally sold and possessed with a SB Tactical Stabilizing
Brace. The ZPAP95 is chambered in .223/5.56 NATO caliber and is basically a semi automatic version
of the original Krinkov, that is fitted with a 10 inch chrome lined barrel barrel, a stamped steel receiver,
a hinged top cover, a Krink style rear sight and a dual aperture front sight. Zastava also makes a rifle
model in 5.56 with a 16.5 inch barrel, that is fitted with Krink style sights and side folding or a
collapsible stock. ZPAP 85 models are also available with a FDE (Flat Dark Earth) Finish.
The Zastava ZPAP 92 is a 7.62×39 caliber variant that is available as a Krink style pistol with a
10 inch barrel, or as a rifle with a 16.5 inch barrel and a FDE/Flat Dark Earth Finish. Zastava also
manufactures a ZPAP model with an Artic White Camouflage Cerakote Finish.
The newest edition to the Zastava lineup is the PAP M77, a rifle chambered in 7.62×51 (.308)
caliber, that has a 19.7 inch Cold Hammer Forged Threaded Barrel, utilizes 20 round magazines, is
fitted with a Promag adjustable/collapsible polymer stock and a TD “pistol” grip. The unloaded weight
of the Zastava M77 is 8.6 pounds.
The Zastava M90 is a 5.56 NATO caliber rifle with an 18.25 inch barrel that utilizes 30 round
polymer magazines and is available with different stock options to include a wooden stock set or a
Magpul manufactured Zhukov Folding Stock, with an MOE Grip and a Hogue Handguard, that weighs
8.5 pounds unloaded.
When you compare the M90 in 5.56 NAO to the M77 in 7.62×51 or .308 caliber you can see
that both rifles are very similar in barrel length and weight. Much like the comparison between the
AK47 and the AK74, the difference between the M77 and the M90 involves the weight of the
ammunition, especially since the M77 utilizes all steel 20 round magazines. Once again, the weight of
the combat load is a consideration. However, some will argue and rightfully so, that .30 caliber 7.62×39
and 7.62×51 caliber rifles provide improved stopping power, especially at longer ranges.
The wild card in this discussion involves the type of ammunition used. Modern commercial
5.45×39 caliber ammunition for AK74 variants does not perform like the original Soviet AK74 7N6
steel core bullet configuration, that is currently banned from being imported in the United States.
Likewise, 77 grain 5.56 caliber ammunition is a more capable performer than standard 55
grain .223/5.56 ammunition. This means, that when used with the right ammunition, the U.S.
AR15/M16/M4 rifles and the AK74 can be more effective than the same rifles loaded with more
standard commercial ammunition.
SUB GUNS AND RIFLES OF THE MIAMI VICE ERA OF THE DRUG WAR
As mentioned above, the first rifle that I carried in harms way, that utilized a lightweight
retractable/collapsible plastic stock, was a Colt CAR15. This rifle was issued to me when I served in
the U.S. Customs Service and I flew as a crew member on drug interdiction aircraft in the Caribbean.
I also carried my issued Colt CAR15 when I conducted smuggling investigations, while operating on
land and when working on an undercover vessel off the coast of Colombia.
THE 9MM HECKLER & KOCH MP5, THE MP5K AND THE 9MM WALTHER MPK
The 9mm Heckler & Koch MP5 was the general issue submachine gun that was utilized by the
U.S. Customs Service and a host of other law enforcement agencies and special operations military
units. Even though the HK MP5 was the primary 9mm submachine gun that was available for issue to
U.S. Customs Agents, I ended up utilizing a 9mm Walther MPK instead. I was issued a 9mm MPK
when I was serving as a Special Agent assigned to the Miami Air Smuggling Investigations Group 7,
that was co located with the Miami Air Branch at Homestead Air Force Base. The 9mm MPK was a
true Cold War era sub gun, that came into service before the emergence of the more “modern” HK
MP5A3, that was widely used during the Drug War, as well as during post 9/11/01 Global War on
Terrorism.
Even though the older stamped steel 9mm Walther MPK with the 6.7 inch barrel was a tad
heavier at 6 pounds 4 ounces unloaded, compared to the 9mm HK MP5A3, that weighed 5 pounds 10
ounces unloaded, I found the Walther variant to be just as reliable as the HK MP5A3. One difference
involved the appearance of both firearms, with the Walther MPK looking nothing like the type of sub
gun, that was in widespread distribution in law enforcement agencies and special operations military
units. The Walther MPK was also fitted with an extremely rugged metal wire side folding stock
compared to the retractable/telescopic stock that was used on the MP5A3. One of the reasons why I
personally preferred the Walther MPK, was because I could use the extremely well made metal wire
folding stock to break vehicle or motel glass windows if necessary. When you work undercover, or you
provide backup to other undercover personnel, it gives you peace of mind to know, that the submachine
gun that you carry can be used to easily smash your way into motel rooms, or into locked vehicles, to
take a major violator into custody, or rescue an undercover agent who is being held hostage.
I also felt that the 9mm Walther MPK was ideally suited for use by an undercover agent,
because the MPK was issued to me in a “nondescript” heavy green cotton canvass zippered case that
contained three steel 32 round metal magazines. This package was so compact, I was able to travel with
my MPK. I also carried my issued Walther MPK in my undercover vehicle.
The 9mm Heckler & Koch MP5K is considerably more compact than the MP5A3 or the
Walther MPK. With a barrel of 4.5 inches and an overall weight (when empty) of 4.5 pounds with an
unloaded magazine, the MPK utilized either a 15 or a 30 round magazine. The MP5K is capable of
full auto fire, burst fire or single action fire. The HK MP5K was and still is ideally suited for those
applications that requires an operator to possess a more compact submachine gun. The HK MP5K can
be carried with or without the side folding stock attached.
As someone who trained with and field tested a standard MP5A3 with a telescope stock, as well
as the more compact 9mm MP5K with a side folding stock, I agree that while both variants can be
utilized in a traditional submachine gun role, the MP5K is the better of the two variants to be carried,
when it is necessary to possess the most compact and concealable submachine gun possible.
ITALIAN COLD WAR CLASSICS
The Italian BM59 was a modified M1 Garand rifle, that was chambered in 7.62×51 (.308) and
fitted with a 20 round metal box magazine. The American made M14 bears a striking resemblance to
the modified American made M1 Garand rifles that were converted into BM59s. The MKIII version of
the BM59 was equipped with a pistol grip and a metal folding stock and was designed for use by Italian
Mountain and Airborne Troops. The Italian BM59 represents one of the .30 caliber Allied/NATO rifles
that were made into a more compact model when equipped with a folding stock.
The trend of transitioning to 7.62×51 (.308) caliber main battle rifles continued during the Cold
War era of the 20th Century. It was during this period of time that the German arms manufacturer
Heckler Koch produced the venerable G3/HK92. When NATO transitioned to 5.56 caliber battle rifles,
Heckler & Koch developed the HK93, a full size higher capacity magazine rifle chambered in 5.56
NATO caliber, that was available with a retractable/collapsible stock. The HK93 was another rifle that
was available to U.S. Customs Agents who served in South Florida during The Miami Vice Era of the
Drug War.
The Italian made Beretta Model 12 is another very well respected but often less known 9mm
submachine gun, that saw widespread service during the Cold War. The Beretta Model 12 is another
premium brand 9mm submachine gun, that had a sterling reputation for reliability and was made under
license in Brazil and Indonesia. The side folding metal “wire” stock, that was fitted on the Model 12,
provided the end user with the ability to “shoulder” this sub gun, when it was necessary to deliver more
precise “aimed” fire. The Beretta Model 12 utilized 20, 32 and 40 round metal (stick) magazines.
GWOT RIFLES
The EBR or Enhanced Battle Rifle was developed during The Global War on Terrorism. Simply
put, the Mk14 EBR or Enhanced Battle Rifle was an M14 that had its wooden stock replaced with a
chassis system. The EBR chassis system contained a telescoping retractable (dual wire) metal stock and
rails for the mounting of an optic, a bi pod and a laser. EBRs were also used as Designated Marksman
Rifles. Two variants of the EBR were produced, one with a 22 inch barrel and one with an 18 inch
barrel. The first U.S. military personnel to be issued an EBR were Navy SEALs. EBRs were also used
by U.S. Army Designated Marksmen. The EBR that I evaluated was issued to U.S. Customs & Border
Protection Black Hawk helicopter crews.
THE FN SCAR 17
The FN SCAR Mk17, also known as the SCAR Heavy, or Special Operations Combat Assault
Rifle. While the SCAR Heavy is chambered in 7.62×51 (.308) and utilizes as 20 round magazine, the
FN SCAR Light is chambered in 5.56 NATO and utilizes AR15/M16/M4 magazines. Both SCAR rifles
are fitted with a side folding polymer stock. The Mk SCAR 17 is available with a 13, 16 and a 20 inch
barrel. I evaluated two FN SCAR Heavy Mk17s, one a commercial model with a 16 inch barrel that
was equipped with a Trijicon ACOG and one that was issued to U.S. Customs & Border Protection
Black Hawk helicopter crews. The DHS/U.S. Customs SCAR Heavy was equipped with an ELCAN
optic and laser.
THE BERETTA ARX100/160
The Beretta AR100 is the semi automatic version of the Beretta AR160. While the bulk of the
AR100s and 160s were chambered in 5.56 NATO, this rifle was reportedly also available in other
calibers. The version I field tested was a semi automatic ARX100 chambered in 5.56 NATO. When
chambered in 5.56 NATO, the AR100/160 is a piston driven battle rifle that utilizes AR15/M4
magazines. The ARX100 is an amazing performer that weighs under 7 pounds unloaded. This is one
rifle that I regret not buying. The Beretta (M4 style) NARP (New Assault Rifle Platform) is replacing
the select fire Beretta ARX160.
SHOTGUNS GET MORE COMPACT
The discontinued “Jungle Gun” version of the semi automatic Mossberg 9200A1 12 gauge
shotgun was an interesting design, that had an 18.5 inch barrel and was fitted with a very well made
and rugged side folding Choate stock. The 9200A1 also had a corrosion resistant Parkerized Finish, a
thicker walled barrel, synthetic “furniture” and all metal parts construction. One drawback of the
9200A1 was it’s limited 4 round tubular magazine capacity. That said, the 9200A1 was one of the few
“combat” shotguns of its day that was available with a side folding stock. Being equipped with a side
folding stock made it easier to transport and deploy a 9200A1 when operating in confined quarters.
Remington Arms Company also manufactured one of their 870 Model 12 gauge pump
action shotguns with a 16 inch barrel, that was equipped with an under-folding metal stock and a pistol
grip. Even though this under-folding metal stock was on the heavy side, it enabled the end user to carry
and transport a more compact shotgun. This is a perfect example of the expression, that life is all about
trade-offs.
A TOP GUN BULLPUP
The Springfield Armory Hellion is a 5.56 NATO caliber bullpup rifle that is fitted with a
retractable polymer stock. In fact, the semi automatic Hellion and the select fire Croation military
variant called the VS2, are the only bullpup rifles that are equipped with a retractable/collapsible stock.
(I am in the process of evaluating the extremely well made Springfield Armory Hellion for ARGunners.
I expect to publish the results of this T&E in a few weeks.)
SB Tactical is a company that embodies the meaning of the famous saying, “Necessity is the
mother of invention.” Once ATF loosened its official position on how Stabilizing Braces could be
used, new products were developed, that could be installed on firearms that were designated as a pistol
under federal law. SB Tactical is a leading producer of Stabilizing Braces in the U.S. and currently
manufactures a variety of models for every firearm designated as a “pistol.” Installing a SB Tactical
Brace on any firearm that is legally designated as a pistol, makes it possible to fire such a firearm from
your shoulder.
About the author: Nick Jacobellis is a Medically Retired U.S. Customs Service Senior Special Agent and a former NY police officer who was physically disabled in the line of duty while working undercover as a federal agent. To date the author has published 240 magazine articles in various law enforcement, firearms, survival and military history magazines, as well as 14 action packed non-fiction, historical military and police procedural fiction books of the following titles: Tactical Survival 101, Controlled Delivery Book One and Book Two, The Front Line Fugitives Books I, II, III, and IV, Buck Banderas U.S. Marshal Books One, Two and Three, A Special Kind of Hero, The K9 Academy-The Second Edition and Guns South. A number of 5 Star reviews have been posted on Amazon.com (US) and (UK) as well as on ARGunners.com. The author’s 14th book is a Christmas story titled: Santa’s Christmas Tree Convoy. The author was born and raised in Flatbush section of Brooklyn New York and has an BS Degree in Police Science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.