I am not a big telescoping stock fan, but I was being different with this rifle, same with the vertical fore grip. You'll have to handle it before you decide: it is very light and quick! I guess there might be something to it after all.

For the sights, I LOVE the EOTech holographic laser sight mated to the iron system. Unlike most guys, I did not go with the free floated forend and modified gas block. Free floating a carbine seems silly to me. I like the idea of only having to deploy one lever if the batteries fail, so only my rear sight folds down. Besides, the EOTech reticle sits right on top of my front sight, and is the perfect combat sight IMO as I keep both eyes open. Cheek weld is not critical - wherever that floating reticle is, the bullet goes! Everything remains in focus.

BTW, the vertical fore grip just snaps into the rails, and comes off with two buttons, so no biggie. I like my rail covers on the forend, because they are firm rubber and fully cover the unused rails. They snap off in sections for accessory attachment.