M-LOK Source: įourteen years ago, thanks to Magpul, the M-LOK system hit the market. However, there are several options of the Picatinny rail system that mount on an M-LOK handguard system that will help you add most, if not all, of what you need. If all you’re interested in is a quality scope and maybe a laser aiming module, then a Picatinny system may be the best choice. If that’s the only accessory system you have, the landscape of a standard Picatinny can get very cluttered should you decide on using multiple configurations simultaneously. For the weight-conscious consumer, the added weight of the rail and the accessory was often a non-starter.Īdditionally, by design, a top-mounted Picatinny rail system is linear, meaning its plane typically runs on top of the AR15 from just forward of the ejection port to the base of the front sight. The problem with installing a Picatinny handguard system was that it added additional weight to the gun. Since its inception, the Picatinny system has accommodated many kinds of accessories such as lights, night vision devices, laser aiming modules, and even bayonets. Initially, the Picatinny rail system allowed the installation of a scope on a higher caliber rifle. Picatinny Source: ĭesigned back in the 80s, the Picatinny and Weaver-style rail systems were, at one time, the only things on the market. Here is an explanation of three of the most used accessory systems and a few pros and cons. Once you understand the best approach for you, it’s time to start snapping up those accessories. Regardless of what you choose, it makes sense to have a system that will help you when configuring your rifle for the mission. Is this going to be a competition rifle?ĭo you intend to use your AR15 specifically for home defense and hunting? Or maybe you want to use your rifle in all three situations. Usage Source: īefore you rush out and start picking out accessories to mount to your rifle, you need to think about the most common shooting activities you plan to perform. Understanding the differences and the advantages of each type of system will help you choose the perfect adaptation for your rifle. KeyMod and M-LOK style handguards were released on the market, providing an AR15 owner with a much lighter solution with smoother ergonomics. Perhaps you purchased or built your latest AR15 with only a Picatinny style rail up top and a no-thrills handguard.įor some, that may be sufficient, but when the mission or you’re shooting preferences require it, you may want to consider Keymod or M-LOK handguards for all those nifty accessories you want.

There are quite a few different items that will enhance the functionality of your rifle, along with several installation methods you should give serious thought about installing on yours. If you don’t want to waste time and you’re eager to go to the range, check here for rifles that offer many out of the box accessories.

Although many AR15 owners accessorize the upper receiver of their AR15 with, at the very least, a quality optic system, it doesn’t have to stop there.

Top keymod accessories