Stern Defense, Llc
About Stern Defense
Stern Defense LLC was founded in 2016 by Andrea Beasley in Summersville, Missouri, building on her family's 25+ years of manufacturing experience through South Central Manufacturing.
The company entered the firearms industry 17 years ago through OEM work with an up-and-coming gun company that has since become quite large.
This extensive OEM manufacturing experience led to the development of their own branded precision firearms accessories and conversion systems.
Stern Defense has gained industry recognition through features in Shooting Industry Magazine and The Firearm Blog, with products showcased at major trade shows like SHOT Show and Big 3 East.
Today, the company remains committed to precision, quality, and efficiency, serving law enforcement, hunters, shooters, and gun enthusiasts with products designed and manufactured by the finest machinists and engineers in the industry.
Popular Stern Defense Features
Last Round Bolt Hold Open
- This breakthrough innovation elevates the shooting experience by providing reliable last round hold open functionality critical for both law enforcement and civilian applications.
6061 T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction
- Optimal performance and lightweight design combined with maximum durability for professional and recreational use.
Quick Installation Design
- Products install in seconds with no permanent modifications required to your AR-15 lower receiver.
4140 NiB-Coated Feed Ramp
- Enhanced durability and reliability through advanced coating technology for consistent feeding performance.
Type 3 Hard Coat Anodization
- Maximum wear protection and corrosion resistance for long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
Drop-Free Magazine Operation
- Magazines hold securely and drop free as designed, maintaining proper magazine release function for tactical reliability.
Best-Selling Stern Defense Products
MAG-AD9 Glock Magazine Adapter
- Their flagship product that put them on the map, converting AR-15 lowers to accept Glock 9mm and .40 S&W magazines for $179.99.
SD CH1 Charging Handle
- Specifically designed charging handle for their conversion systems, priced at $32.50 for optimal compatibility and performance.
SD AR-15 Assembled Upper Receiver
- Complete upper receiver assembly for $109.00, providing the foundation for pistol caliber carbine builds.
RAB-AD Rapid Attach Buttstock Adapter
- Innovative buttstock mounting solution for $139.95 that enhances conversion system functionality and user experience.
MOD4 M-LOK Upper Kits
- Complete pistol caliber carbine systems available in 4", 6", and 16" barrel configurations for versatile applications.
MAG-AD Series for Multiple Platforms
- Magazine adapters for Beretta, S&W M&P, and SIG P320 magazines, expanding compatibility across popular pistol platforms.
Bolt Carrier Groups
- Specialized BCGs designed specifically for pistol caliber conversions, ensuring reliable cycling and performance.
Popular Uses for Stern Defense
Law Enforcement Applications
- Trusted by law enforcement agencies to build AR platforms that accept duty pistol magazines for the ultimate police patrol rifle.
Training and Cost-Effective Shooting
- Pistol caliber ARs serve as cheap plinkers and great training tools perfect for new shooters using existing magazines and affordable ammunition.
Competition Shooting
- Reliable operation and consistent performance make these systems ideal for competitive shooting applications requiring precision and dependability.
Home Defense
- Pistol caliber carbines offer reduced overpenetration concerns while maintaining the familiar AR platform for home protection scenarios.
Recreational and Range Use
- Indoor range compatibility and suppressor-friendly operation make these conversions perfect for recreational shooting and range training.
Stern Defense FAQs
QUESTION: How quickly can I install Stern Defense magazine adapters on my AR-15?
ANSWER: Stern Defense magazine adapters install in seconds like an AR magazine with no permanent modifications required to your lower receiver.
QUESTION: What buffer weight do I need for Stern Defense conversion systems?
ANSWER: You must use a 5.4 ounce buffer or heavier when using a carbine spring for proper cycling and reliability.
QUESTION: Which Glock magazines work best with the MAG-AD9 adapter?
ANSWER: Post-2004 square notch Glock OEM magazines are recommended for best performance, while Glock 26 and 27 magazines are too short and cannot be used.
QUESTION: Does Stern Defense offer a warranty on their AR conversion products?
ANSWER: Yes, Stern Defense provides a 1-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship to the original purchaser.
QUESTION: What materials are used in Stern Defense magazine adapters?
ANSWER: Stern Defense uses 6061 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction with 4140 NiB-coated feed ramps and Type 3 hard coat anodization.
QUESTION: Can law enforcement agencies use Stern Defense products for duty rifles?
ANSWER: Yes, Stern Defense products are trusted by law enforcement agencies to create patrol rifles that accept their existing duty pistol magazines.
QUESTION: Where are Stern Defense conversion systems manufactured?
ANSWER: All Stern Defense products are designed, machined, and assembled in their Summersville, Missouri factory using USA-supplied materials.
QUESTION: Do Stern Defense adapters maintain last round bolt hold open function?
ANSWER: Yes, Stern Defense adapters feature reliable last round bolt hold open functionality that elevates the shooting experience.

