DIY AR-10 trigger shoe (ugly...)

[KZP]

The distance between the grip and trigger on my AR felt too short compared to my Cadex bolt action setup. Got out my calipers and measured a 0.6" difference. After a few days of thinking I figured out a solution that I could execute with crude tools.

I cut a few pieces of flat bar aluminum and brazed the edges to make a thicker block. After a few hours of hacking bits off with a dremel and angle grinder, I ended up with a crude trigger shoe. One set screw runs from the front pad to the back to put pressure on the trigger.

It feels nice and is semi-solid if I don't abuse it. Not sure how long it will hold up. Don't know exact grade of aluminum, got it from the hardware store so I assume it is on the softer side. I expect overtime the set screw will destroy the threads or the back side will bend itself open.

If there is a better commercial solution, I'd be interested to see it. I spent a few hours searching online and couldn't find anything similar. I'll use this until it doesn't work anymore.

 

[RFutch]

If it’s stupid but it works it’s not stupid.

 

[softcock]

that Shoe looks like an item that could possibly now be done with 3-D printed harder quality ABS . ? . or Maybe a 2-piece clam-shell design ?
.
edit add:
I did Buy a couple . and Several years ago there were some 'add on' trigger shoes sold out there by someone .
They were Aluminum and 'wide' Curve Shoe , ( double set screw attached ) . I bought one for CZ .22lr and a 10/22 .
II might even still have one around , if I find one will take a pic .
.

 

[KZP]

that Shoe looks like an item that could possibly now be done with 3-D printed harder quality ABS . ? . or Maybe a 2-piece clam-shell design ?
.

I was thinking about that too. I don't have access to a 3d printer, and I figured to get a real tight fit the trigger should be laser scanned to make the shell conform better. I'm also not too sure what minimum thickness you need in a 3d printed model before the plastic loses strength.

 

[19Scout77]

With the extra weight, did you butt stroke it a few times to make sure it’s still safe?

 

[KZP]

With the extra weight, did you butt stroke it a few times to make sure it’s still safe?

Yep, trigger is heavy enough spring weight to handle it. It isn't that heavy despite how it looks. I have a two stage trigger and the first stage is very light, but the shoe is also light enough to still return back to zero.

 

[19Scout77]

Have you considered something like this?
https://www.brownells.com/rifle-par...ssories/ar-15-rite-pull-adapter-prod7378.aspx

 

[KZP]

Interesting, I haven't seen something like that before. I'll check it out.