Picatinny Rails

Michael Johnson
15 min readJun 8, 2024

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Welcome to the world of adaptable, versatile, and reliable Picatinny Rail solutions! In our roundup, we’ll dive into the latest additions to this ever-growing market, showcasing the top picks that cater to a wide array of firearms and applications. Stick around as we explore and compare features, quality, and performance so you can make your perfect choice. Let’s get started!

The Top 12 Best Picatinny Rails

  1. Axis 5-Pack Adhesive Picatinny Rails — Gear up your protective headgear with the adaptable Axis A02031–001 TW1900 Bonded Picatinny Rail, perfect for effortless integration with the AXIS TW1200 Portable Miniature Hearing Bullet Sensors.
  2. Samson M-LOK 4" Picatinny Rail Kit for 1913 Rail — The Samson M-LOK 4" Rail Kit is a top-notch accessory designed for precision rifles, providing optimal fit and function with a variety of M-LOK interfaces.
  3. UTG Pro Keymod Picatinny Rail 4 Slot — UTG Pro 1.57" 4 Slot Keymod Pic Rail — MTURS04S: A precision-made, versatile mil-spec rail section, proudly designed and manufactured in the USA, for modular accessory attachments and seamlessly connecting multiple sections.
  4. Brass Catcher with Picatinny Rail Mount for AR Reloading — Convenience meets efficiency with the TacStar Brass Catcher and Picatinny Rail Mount, a smart addition for AR shooters seeking a hassle-free brass collection solution.
  5. Strike MLOK Picatinny Rail System — Protect your investment with the highly-durable Strike Industries Strike MLOK Rail Handguard — the ultimate shooting solution for any skill level.
  6. Metallic Picatinny Rail Covers for Firearms — Armaspec’s M-LOC 3 Slot Black Picatinny Rail Covers provide durable, aluminum protection for your firearm, manufactured in the USA, backed by no reviews or rating.
  7. RS Regulate M-LOK Rail for Galil ACE with Twin Opposed Handguard Bolt — Revamp and elevate your Galil ACE rifle with the RS Regulate M-LOK Rail, adorned with an anodized surface, double handguard clamps, and a Picatinny Rail for unmatched adaptability.
  8. IAG I-Line Short Picatinny Dash Rail for 2021+ Ford Bronco — Install and fine-tune your attachments effortlessly with the IAG I-Line Short Picatinny Rail. Crafted exclusively for the 2021+ Ford Bronco without the B&O Sound System, this product provides a secure and hassle-free mounting experience.
  9. Short Picatinny Rail, M-LOK Accessory for Comfortable Grip — Experience comfort and versatility with the VISM by NcSTAR M-LOK Accessory Rail Short — a high-quality, 5-slot Picatinny rail designed for enhanced grip and easy installation.
  10. Q Top Rail for The Fix 1913 Picatinny Rail — Upgrade your The Fix 1913 with the Q Top Rail for effortless attachment of optics and night vision accessories, designed with utmost compatibility for a seamless shooting experience.
  11. Picatinny Rail Phone Mount for Ford Bronco — Securely hold your phone with the IAG I-Line Picatinny Rail with Phone Mount, featuring adjustable angles, foam pads for scratch prevention, and compatibility with various accessories for the 2021+ Ford Bronco.
  12. Jeep Wrangler Picatinny Rail Roof Light Mount — Upgrade your off-road adventures with the DV8 Offroad JL-190053-RF: a robust, hassle-free, and adaptable Picatinny rail-mounted rooftop light for Jeep JL/JT vehicles.

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Reviews

Axis 5-Pack Adhesive Picatinny Rails

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The Axis 02031–001 TW1900 Adhesive Picatinny Rail is a versatile accessory designed specifically for use with the AXIS TW1200 Body Worn Mini Bullet Sensor. This black rail is perfect for those looking to enhance the functionality of their non-tactical helmet, providing a secure and reliable mounting solution for the mini bullet sensor.

The Adhesive Picatinny Rail is easy to apply, allowing you to quickly and efficiently attach the sensor to your helmet. The rail is helmet mountable, ensuring a snug and secure fit that won’t compromise the stability of your helmet. With a compatible mount, this product is an essential addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection, providing the perfect solution for tracking your adventures.

Samson M-LOK 4" Picatinny Rail Kit for 1913 Rail

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I recently had the chance to test out the Samson Manufacturing Corp. 4" Black ML-4-KIT, a top-notch rail section accessory that’s great for any standard M-LOK interface. One of the first things I noticed was how seamlessly it fits on my 1913 Rail, enhancing the overall look and feel of my Marksman’s Corner setup.

The rail section is made from durable, high-quality materials and features a sleek, black finish that’s perfect for blending in with any setup. In my experience, I found that the rail is easy to mount and secure, ensuring it stays in place during all my tactical adventures.

However, while the Samson M-LOK 4" Rail Kit is an excellent addition to any M-LOK interface, it’s essential to note that it’s designed specifically for standard M-LOK systems and might not be compatible with other types of rails.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and stylish rail section accessory that’s perfect for your M-LOK interface, the Samson Manufacturing Corp. 4" Black ML-4-KIT is an excellent choice. Just keep in mind that it’s made for standard M-LOK interfaces and might require some modifications to fit other types of rails.

UTG Pro Keymod Picatinny Rail 4 Slot

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The UTG Pro Picatinny Rail Section is a top-quality, precision-machined accessory designed for AR platform guns. With a proudly made in the USA label, this rail section measures 1.57 inches in length and offers an optimal profile (0.375" saddle height) for versatile accessory attachments and modular applications.

The rail edge design ensures true continuous rail slots when connecting multiple sections, while it’s constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy with a hard coat anodizing finish to ensure durability. This rail section also comes with the necessary keymod compatible steel locking nuts, steel allen screws, and an allen wrench for a hassle-free installation process.

Brass Catcher with Picatinny Rail Mount for AR Reloading

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The TacStar Brass Catcher is a game-changer for AR shooters who reload. It’s a breeze to install on flat top ARs, thanks to its adjustable and low-profile mounting bracket. The heat-resistant catch bag can hold up to 120 . 223 cases, so you can collect plenty of brass.

However, the catch bag and its aluminum deflector plate can become rather flimsy. And while a single Picatinny rail mount is provided, some users wish for additional mounts to make changing between rifles easier. All in all, this product is great for its intended purpose, but could use a few tweaks for broader compatibility and durability.

Strike MLOK Picatinny Rail System

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The Strike MLOK Rail is a top-notch accessory designed for avid shooters of all skill levels. Crafted by the talented team at Strike Industries, this rail is built with high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting durability.

One of the standout features of this rail is its M-LOK compatibility, allowing for seamless attachment to your AR-15. It also comes with a free-floating design, providing ultimate stability during aiming. Overall, the Strike MLOK Rail is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their rifle and improve their shooting experience.

Metallic Picatinny Rail Covers for Firearms

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The Armaspec Picatinny Rail Covers come in a sleek black finish, fitting seamlessly into your M-LOC 3 slot setup. Crafted with quality in mind, these aluminum covers are both durable and lightweight. Not only do they enhance the look of your firearm, but they also protect it from dust and other elements.

While they require some assembly, users appreciate the USA-made hardware that ensures a secure fit.

RS Regulate M-LOK Rail for Galil ACE with Twin Opposed Handguard Bolt

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The RS Regulate MLOK Rail, a versatile addition to the Galil ACE length gas system, was a recent addition to my daily gun collection. Despite not fitting perfectly with. 308 Galil ACE models or single long cross-bolt handguards, this rail did a great job of allowing me to customize my iconic Galil ACE and provided stability during my shooting sessions.

One thing that caught my eye was the anodized finish that left the rail with a sleek, black look. However, I noticed it weighed a bit more than my typical rails, adding a bit of extra weight. Another feature worth highlighting was its compatibility with the Galil ACE length gas system and twin opposed handguard bolts, which provided a sturdy grip.

In terms of negatives, I did find that its compatibility with other models or handguards was limited, so potential customers should be aware of this restriction. Overall, my experience with the RS Regulate MLOK Rail was mostly positive, and it adds an extra touch of personalization to my Galil ACE.

IAG I-Line Short Picatinny Dash Rail for 2021+ Ford Bronco

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Installing the IAG I-Line Short Picatinny Dash Rail on my 2021 Ford Bronco was a breeze. I loved that it didn’t require any cutting or drilling, making the installation process quick and easy. The rail’s adjustable feature was fantastic, allowing me to securely mount different accessories like a dash cam or phone.

The fitment on the Bronco was spot-on, providing an OEM quality accessory mounting point. It felt sturdy and secure, even on bumpy trails, and I appreciated that it could be easily removed if needed. The hardware bag included was a nice touch, as it ensured all the necessary components were handy.

However, the only downside was that the rail wasn’t compatible with the B&O sound system found on LUX package Broncos. Overall, the IAG I-Line Short Picatinny Dash Rail was a handy addition to my Bronco, enhancing the functionality of my dash accessories.

Short Picatinny Rail, M-LOK Accessory for Comfortable Grip

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The NcSTAR M-LOK Accessory Rail Short is a versatile and durable addition to any AR-15 build. Its 5-slot Picatinny rail provides a solid platform for attaching various accessories, while its short design offers a comfortable grip when used as a hand stop. Machined from high-quality aluminum, this rail adds great value and style to your firearm.

However, the mounting hardware can be a bit tricky to use, as some users reported issues with T-nuts not spinning properly. Additionally, the 2 screws provided for mounting might not be long enough, requiring an extra piece or modification for a secure fit.

Overall, the NcSTAR M-LOK Accessory Rail Short strikes a good balance between functionality and affordability. Its aluminum construction and 5-slot Picatinny rail make it a solid choice for a variety of accessories, but be prepared to fiddle with the mounting hardware for a perfect fit.

Q Top Rail for The Fix 1913 Picatinny Rail

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As a gun enthusiast, I have been using the Q Top Rail for The Fix 1913 8.5" Blk for quite some time now, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the experience. The first thing that caught my eye was how sleek and well-designed it is. The machining and fits are precise, allowing for seamless attachment of accessories like optics and night vision devices. I was particularly impressed with the Picatinny Rail system, which made it incredibly easy to mount and unmount my attached scopes.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks I’ve encountered. Firstly, the installation process was a bit more challenging than I expected. It required some patience and precise hand movements to ensure proper alignment, which could be frustrating for beginners. Secondly, the product is a bit on the pricier side compared to other top rail options in the market. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Q Top Rail for The Fix 1913 8.5" Blk has been a reliable and versatile addition to my firearm setup, and I would definitely recommend it to fellow enthusiasts.

Picatinny Rail Phone Mount for Ford Bronco

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As a daily user of the IAG I-Line Picatinny Rail with Phone Mount for my 2022 Ford Bronco, I can say it exceeded my expectations. This mount allows for a secure and versatile phone placement, easily adjustable to any angle. The accessory rail accommodates different phone positions and even additional accessories like a dash cam.

One aspect that stood out to me is the compatibility with a range of phones, fitting most devices between 2.36 to 2.76 inches in width. This feature ensures a snug fit for your device, preventing any wobbling or falling.

The mount installation process was straightforward, requiring only the included hardware to secure it to the OEM accessory mounting hole in the dash. The rail provides an OEM quality accessory mounting point once installed, enhancing my overall driving experience.

The IAG I-Line Picatinny Rail with Phone Mount offers a seamless integration with my Ford Bronco, perfect for hands-free navigation and phone functionality.

Jeep Wrangler Picatinny Rail Roof Light Mount

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I’ve always been a fan of off-road adventures and finding the right gear for my Jeep Wrangler is essential. Recently, I came across the DV8 Offroad D-JL-190053-RF, a Picatinny rail roof light mount designed specifically for Jeep JL/Gladiator models in 2018 and beyond. The first thing that caught my attention was the robust AR-15-inspired design, which not only adds a military aesthetic but also provides versatility in terms of mounting accessories.

One of the coolest features of this mount is its bolt-on installation process, making it easy for anyone to get it up and running. It arrives fully assembled with the Picatinny rail, so there’s no need to worry about complicated setups. I was particularly impressed by the numerous mounting options available for different lights and accessories, ensuring that my adventures are always well-illuminated and ready for action.

However, one drawback that I discovered was that the DV8 Offroad D-JL-190053-RF is only compatible with the Jeep JL & JT A-Pillar mounted rail system, which might limit its appeal to a broader audience. Overall, I would highly recommend this product for those seeking a reliable and stylish off-road lighting solution that seamlessly integrates with their Jeep JL/Gladiator.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to the Buyer’s Guide for Picatinny Rails! This section is here to help you understand the key features, considerations, and general advice about this product category. Without naming specific products or providing external links, we aim to give you the information you need to make informed decisions when buying Picatinny Rails.

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What is a Picatinny Rail?

A Picatinny Rail, also known as a mil-spec rail, is a standardized rectangular rail profile that has become a universal mounting system for various accessories, such as sights, lasers, and lights. It was first developed for military applications and is now widely used across the law enforcement and civilian markets. Picatinny Rails are known for their versatility, durability, and ease of use.

Types of Picatinny Rails

There are several types of Picatinny Rails available in the market. The most common ones include free-floating, drop-in, and pinned rails. Free-floating rails allow for optimal accuracy by having no contact with the barrel, while drop-in rails are inserted directly into the barrel channel and secured by a pinned rear nut. These types of rails can be found on different platforms like firearms, scopes, and accessories.

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Picatinny Rail Compatibility

Ensuring compatibility is crucial when shopping for Picatinny Rails. It’s essential to know the dimensions and spacing of the rail you need, as these can vary depending on the type of firearm or accessory it will be used with. Be sure to check the label or specifications of the rail you’re considering, and if in doubt, consult with a professional.

Quality and Durability

When shopping for Picatinny Rails, quality and durability should be at the top of your list. High-quality rails are made from aircraft-grade aluminum or steel, providing optimal strength and rigidity. Ensure that the rail has a matte black finish for weather-resistance and a grippy texture to prevent accessories from slipping. It’s also important to look for rails with anodized surfaces for improved durability and resistance to corrosion.

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FAQ

What is a Picatinny Rail?

A Picatinny Rail, also known as a MIL-STD-1913 rail or by the trademarked name Picatinny, is a type of rail system that’s gained considerable popularity among gun enthusiasts and professionals. Developed in the 1990s by the United States Military, this versatile and adaptable rail has since become widely adopted in firearms for its ease of use.

One of the main reasons for the Picatinny Rail’s popularity is that it allows users to mount an array of accessories such as scopes, lights, or laser sights onto their firearms with ease. The rail’s unique key-slot design ensures that these accessories are securely fastened without requiring additional hardware.

Picatinny Rails are made from various materials like aluminum, steel, and polymer, providing different options for users. They also come in varying dimensions and lengths, designed to suit various firearm types.

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What are the advantages of using a Picatinny Rail?

The primary advantage of using a Picatinny Rail is its ease of accessorization. With the key-slot design, you can securely attach accessories in a matter of minutes. This flexibility allows for the easy switching and configuring of firearms based on your specific needs or preferences.

Another significant advantage of Picatinny Rails is their durability and reliability. These rails are fabricated from robust materials, assuring long-lasting performance and sturdiness. Additionally, they’re designed to be compatible with a wide array of accessories, making them suitable for various shooting styles and applications.

How do I choose the right Picatinny Rail for my firearm?

When selecting a Picatinny Rail, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, ensure compatibility with your firearm’s receiver, the intended dimensions and length, and your preferred material. Some firearms may have specific receiver styles or dimensions, so it’s crucial to select a rail that’s compatible.

Additionally, consider the rail’s weight as some materials like aluminum or polymer may be lighter. If durability is a concern, consider a steel rail. Lastly, take your budget into account, as pricing varies depending on the materials and features offered.

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Can I mount accessories from different manufacturers on a Picatinny Rail?

Absolutely! One of the main benefits of the Picatinny Rail system is its adaptability and compatibility. Accessories from various manufacturers can be mounted on Picatinny Rails as long as they’re in line with the standard key-slot design. This flexibility and standardization allows users to mix and match components based on their individual preferences or requirements.

Just remember, while Picatinny Rails offer compatibility with a wide range of accessories, it’s still essential to ensure that the accessories align correctly with the rail. Some accessories may have variations in height or size and, to ensure proper mounting and performance, it’s critical to verify compatibility.

Are there any alternatives to Picatinny Rail systems?

Yes, there are other railing systems available on the market. The most popular alternative to the Picatinny Rail system is the Weaver Rail system. Although both Weaver and Picatinny rails use a key-slot design for compatibility, they have different key sizes. Picatinny rails use a 0.436-inch key size while Weaver rails use a 0.324-inch key size.

Another option is the KeyMod Rail system. KeyMod rails use a circular slot that allows for a greater range of accessory sizes and rotational freedom. However, these system’s accessories are not typically compatible with Picatinny or Weaver rails, making them a separate and distinct option from Picatinny Rails.

How do I clean and maintain my Picatinny Rail?

To ensure your Picatinny Rail remains in optimal condition, it’s essential to clean it regularly, especially after exposure to dirt, dust, or high-pressure environments. Use a soft cloth and mild detergent solution to wipe down the rail, ensuring that you remove any debris or buildup in the key slots. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive materials or high-pressure water, as these can cause damage to the surface or weaken the rail’s structure.

In addition to regular cleaning, it’s crucial to periodically inspect the rail for any signs of wear and tear, such as bent or broken key slots. If any damage is noticed, consider replacing the rail or repairing it by a professional to maintain its functionality and durability. Proper cleaning and maintenance of your Picatinny Rail will help ensure its longevity and continue to provide reliable performance.

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