Just about everybody, meaning even the Viking Tactics instructors, uses the padded. It's the one I have and it rides very comfortably. As far as an adapter, it depends on how your rifle is set up. A collapsible stock needs nothing additional on that end. An Ace tubular probably wouldn't, either. Up front, a front sight base or any type of 1" side-mounted sling swivel will get you there. Actually, I just have a vertical slot cut out near the end of my handguard tube. I'll try to get a picture posted this evening.