I opened the box to find a very tightly packed M40A3 stock, with two screws, and a manual. As I took the stock out of the box, I wasn't disappointed. Weighing it at just under five pounds, this is one hefty piece. I shoulder the stock briefly, and the feel was perfect. And I knew I had spent my money well.
The stock is made out of something that really no other replica is made out of. It's not ABS, it's more of polymer type fiberglass, much like the Classic Army G36 series. As I was looking over the stock, I noticed that there is no hollow places on it, at all. Any where that there isn't supposed to be a receiver, or outer barrel, it's solid, all the way through. I found this quite reassuring, as I like to use my rifles as a tool, like it's intended, function over form.
I also noticed that there isn't a place to put a sling swivel, there are though little "dots" if you will, to show you where you would drill some in. I plan on doing this shortly, to place a 6"-9" Harris Bi-Pod.
But like on the real M40A3, there are sling mounts on the side. I have yet, though to been able to track any down for this particular stock.
There does seem to be a seam line that runs the length of the rifle, I for one don't really care about it much. But if you're into minute details, you may want to take that into account. It doesn't look like a "cheap" seam line, if you will. More like a molded one, as you can see in the various pictures.
Assembly
Assembly of the stock, to your existing VSR outer barrel, and receiver is quite easy. It's a pretty simple drop in, and doesn't take any modification at all. As the M40A3 comes with it's own trigger guard, the first thing you have to do is unscrew the existing trigger guard from your VSR trigger assembly. After this you just drop the receiver into the stock, and screw in three screws.
"Three screws," you're asking? "I thought it only come with two?"
The stock does only come with two screws, one Allen wrench type, and one Phillips head type. The third screw you use comes from the old trigger guard. You screw this into the same place as you would on the normal VSR stock.
Also something to notice, is that you must take your original mag release from the original VSR stock, and place it into the new Fortress stock.
FeaturesSome things you may notice on this stock, are the adjustable cheek rest, and the adjustable butt stock. These features make the stock very customizable to the user.
The rifle also has a textured pistol type grip, as well as textured fore grip. This feels more like it is molded into the stock, so it's finish is the same as the rest of the stock. Making me think it's there mainly for aesthetic reasons.
Another feature that you will notice, is there is a rest for your off hand to be placed. This gives a very sturdy fire position, when in prone.
ConclusionOverall I would say this rifle is a good investment for anyone wanting to turn their VSR into a M40A3, it's built like a tank, has many great features, and will last for a long time. Some may think the price is a bit high, just for a stock. But those that find there stock VSR light, and "toyish" like, then this stock is a great investment.
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