AEA Custom Stock Design and Build For the Zeus.

Loren · Jan 16, 2024

I started work on developing a new stock for the Zeus. The comb on the OEM stock is very low for just about any scope use so will be addressing that problem along with my idea for style. I am still working on digitally shaping the stock but here is kind of where it is going right now.

Some images from the CAD model that is in works.

Cheplicki · Jan 17, 2024

i would really like to see a bul-pup stock

Loren · Jan 17, 2024

Cheplicki said:
i would really like to see a bul-pup stock

Will have to look at trigger and safety mechanisms to see linkage could be easily developed.

heavy-impact · Jan 17, 2024

What powder burner cartridge has a similar recoil to the .72 Zeus?

Loren · Jan 17, 2024

Why? I do not have any data on the Zeus recoil and have not shot mine yet. I am waiting on a piece of AR500 plate to add to my back stop.

If you compare muzzle energy of the Zeus to most center fire cartridges it will be less. Even a typical 5.56 55gt round is producing over 1200fpe.

I have big bores kick, but the impulse speed of the kick is slower than a center fire round

Like getting kicked by a slow mule vs a fast one….they both knock you on your butt, one just happens faster…lol

heavy-impact · Jan 17, 2024

Loren said:
Why? I do not have any data on the Zeus recoil and have not shot mine yet. I am waiting on a piece of AR500 plate to add to my back stop.

If you compare muzzle energy of the Zeus to most center fire cartridges it will be less. Even a typical 5.56 55gt round is producing over 1200fpe.

I have big bores kick, but the impulse speed of the kick is slower than a center fire round

Like getting kicked by a slow mule vs a fast one….they both knock you on your butt, one just happens faster…lol

Just curious since I've never shot one.
.223 feels like nothing in an AR.
I'd imagine the .72 is pretty heavy so that would slow the recoil a lot.

Loren · Jan 17, 2024

I agree a .223 in a gas gun is pretty light. In a bolt gun it will let you know it has a bit of power.

The Zeus is heavy, and I have a muzzle brake designed to take out some of the recoil. Will see once the AR500 plate arrives.

Loren · Jan 20, 2024

A quick and dirty 3D printed prototype used to check ergonomic fitment. Based on this I already have a few changes to the design.

Loren · Jan 27, 2024

I have been working on fine tuning the shape, filling in details on the inletting. I added the adjustable cheek riser as suggested. I added the M-Lok rail on the forearm and fine fitted the relief the the QD female foster fitting for attachment of the fill line. The devil is always in the details.

I am about ready to cut this is wood. I need to complete a manufacturing CAD model and create the CNC programs. Again more details...lol

The is a 3D printed prototype. I really love the ergonomics. It feels good in the hands, close my eyes and come down to a cheek weld, open my eyes and the scope is right there where it should be.

RM.510bigbore · Jan 29, 2024

heavy-impact said:
Just curious since I've never shot one.
.223 feels like nothing in an AR.
I'd imagine the .72 is pretty heavy so that would slow the recoil a lot.

Big bores recoil!!!!! The Zeus is more powerful than my Texan .510 CF TX2....My Texan with 650 grain slugs at 750 fps will scope you if your not prepared.... So if you shoot slugs from 600 to 1000 grains its gonna kick... My 50 Texan pulled the threads outta frame on factory front for end shooting in BOG tripod...Yes slugs over 500 grain seem to bring the recoil....In subsonic big bores all we have is diameter and weight .... So a 223 will recoil less than my 510 Texan even shooting say 460 grain slugs...

elittle1234 · Feb 2, 2024

Is your 3d printed stock lighter than the wood one? Just curious. The zeus with a polymer stock and carbon bottle would be so much more comfortable I think. It's heavy! Especially the 32".

Loren · Feb 3, 2024

elittle1234 said:
Is your 3d printed stock lighter than the wood one? Just curious. The zeus with a polymer stock and carbon bottle would be so much more comfortable I think. It's heavy! Especially the 32".

No it is about one pound heavier than the OEM wood stock. There is a lot more volume in my design VS the OEM stock. I just weighed my action with scope (3-18 x 44x 34mm) it weighs in at 13lbs 10 oz. It is a heavy cannon. Not sure if adding or subtracting a pound from a stock is really going to make much difference. A carbon fiber air tank would probably be a big WIN.