As hunting season gets underway, many of you are probably already kitted out with all the right gear.  Most hunters have a set of rifle hunting accessories to assist help achieve the goal. But, for those of you on the lookout for any last-minute adjustments you can make — or those of you already planning for next year — it’s time to take a good look at your AR-15. Yes, we know, it’s not exactly the most conventional choice for a hunting gun. But, as owners across the country are coming to find out, it’s actually a pretty versatile option. Consider this:

Accessory Customization Is King For Hunting

We all know the AR-15 is supremely customizable. That’s one of the biggest overall benefits to the platform, whether your primary use is home defense, hunting, or competition shooting. By extension, this means your AR can be pretty well customized even just to perform specific tasks within those broader groups better than many other guns can be.

The true bounty of function is that you can legitimately set up a half-dozen different uppers (or more), each designed to chamber a different caliber ammunition and set up with different rifle hunting accessories. Whatever you need for what you’ll be hunting each go-round, the AR makes it easy to customize your upper accordingly. That way, when it’s time to head out for your next trip, just grab your lower and the upper you have set up for whatever it is you’ll be hunting. It’s even fairly easy to swap them out while on the go, so grab a couple of different uppers if you’ll be hunting big game one day and wild boars later in your trip.

Portability & Maneuverability

The other big benefit to the AR-15 is that it was designed for people who would need to carry them long distances and be able to get into a strong shooting stance quickly — our troops. This benefit carries over into hunting in the sense that it is a light enough rifle that it can easily be carried over long distances without fatigue. Even better, it can be disassembled and reassembled quickly if you want to stow it in your pack while you trek out into the wilderness.

The size and setup of the stock and handguard also make it easy to get into a solid shooting stance quickly, and reaction time can make a big difference. The comparatively shorter barrel means it’s easier to maneuver around obstacles and still find a strong grip.

How To Customize For Hunting

The biggest determination for customizing an AR upper for hunting is what you’ll be hunting. That’ll affect the ammo you need, which will then affect the base components of your upper. Depending on the gauge, you’ll be able to find complete uppers or, for some of the ammunition sizes that are less conventional for the AR-15, you may need to build the upper yourself. Fortunately, the abundance of different upper receiver parts and accessories manufacturers out there mean you can find just about everything you can imagine for a range of different ammo sizes.

Choosing Upper Components

Once you’ve figured out what size ammo you’ll be chambering, you’ll need to think about all the other elements that go into an upper. What you’ll be hunting will also give you certain elements to plan for, like distance, optics needs, maneuverability, and so on. For example, if you know that a long-distance shot or two will be a strong possibility, you’ll want to be sure your upper has a handguard rail system so you can easily add on a scope or other options rather than relying on a fixed iron sight. Some of the primary game-dependent components and AR accessories in 2026 include:

Barrel Length

A shorter barrel will be lighter and easier to maneuver, but it also means less velocity. The reverse also holds true; longer barrels will be heavier, but also offer more velocity. If you’re hunting elk, that increased velocity is going to be more important than what you’d need for, say, coyote hunting.

Gas System

Also, pay attention to the gas system. Shorter gas systems generally mean they’re venting closer to the receiver, which can gunk them up more quickly and decrease the lifespan.

Hunting Rifle Handguard

Choosing a rail system is secondary to making the choice between a free-floating handguard and the non-free floating options. Non-free floating, as you can probably guess, is going to actually connect to the barrel.

That can be problematic for a couple of reasons. First, anything touching the barrel is going to affect vibrations, even if it’s just a subtle change. Adding accessories that attach to a non-free floating handguard can further affect it. This can combine to such an extent that each bullet fired may leave the muzzle at a slightly different angle — ultimately affecting your accuracy as you get further away from the target.

The other thing to keep in mind with non-free floating handguards is that the vibrations can also have an effect on any accessories attached to them. This is most important when taking optics into consideration, but the vibrations can be enough to affect other accessories over time.

Best Hunting Accessories For An AR

The proper rifle hunting accessories can help make for an all around better experience as well. Fortunately, companies like RailScales have a vast array of options available to outfit your hunting rifle. It's important to know what types of accessories will help each build perform better. Speaking of AR accessories, you’ll probably want one or two for each of your different hunting setups. Your need for different scopes or other optics will vary based on your intended quarry. In addition, it’s a good idea to have backup sights in the event that a powered sight fails, so invest in a fixed iron sight that won’t inhibit your primary optic or take up too much space on your rail system. It’s also worth adding on RailScales, a hand stop, and/or a vertical grip based on your preferences.  Explore all the best in lightweight, durable, and heat-resistant AR accessories with RailScales to complete your hunting setups today!

New for Fall 2023: Introducing the HTP XOS in MLOK

In the ever-evolving world of firearm accessories, RailScales is proud to present its latest innovation: the High Temp Polymer (HTP) injection molded version of our G10 machined XOS RailScales. The HTP XOS scales are designed to take your shooting experience to a whole new level. Here's what you need to know about this exciting addition to our product lineup.

Enhanced Grip and Heat Protection

The HTP XOS scales are a 3-sided solution, offering more than twice the grip surface compared to our traditional HTP Scales. This expanded surface area is achieved through the addition of a 135º wing on each side of the panel, allowing the HTP XOS to wrap tightly around your rail. The result is a seamless grip area that provides unparalleled handling and heat protection.

Color Options to Match Your Style

We understand that customization is key for firearm enthusiasts. That's why the HTP XOS scales are available in four popular industry colors: Black, Flat Dark Earth, Sniper Grey, and OD Green. Whether you prefer a classic look or want to make a statement with your firearm, we've got you covered. These scales are sold individually, giving you the flexibility to outfit your firearm with added texture, grip, and heat protection at a reduced cost.

MLOK Compatibility

The HTP XOS scales are designed to accommodate most popular MLOK handguard rail systems. We've carefully crafted these scales to ensure a precise fit and hassle-free installation. However, we recommend checking the specifications below to confirm compatibility with your specific rail system.

Specifications:

• New HTP Near-Infrared (NIR) material
• 3.5 MLOK Slots
• Width: 1.150"
• Thickness: 0.125"
• Length: 5.520"
• Weight: 0.85 oz each with hardware
• 416 US-made stainless nuts
• T20 TORX US-made fasteners

Introducing HTP Near-Infrared (NIR) Material

Our HTP scales have always been known for their heat stabilization and high-strength properties, thanks to the inclusion of 50% long glass fiber. This unique composition provides excellent rigidity and high heat distortion temperature (HDT) of 500º. The crystalline properties and glass loading make our HTP scales minimally susceptible to warpage, even to the extent of serving as a substitute for die-cast metal parts.

Now, with the introduction of the HTP XOS scales, we've incorporated a new Near-Infrared (NIR) compliant upgrade to our material. Originally formulated for a recent military contract, the HTP NIR material has been integrated into our commercial product line. This IR additive has remarkable properties, as it absorbs Short Wave IR radiation (non-visible light) while preventing the emission of longer-wave IR radiation (visible light). The result? These scales are virtually invisible when viewed using night vision or FLIR equipment, making them a game-changer for low-light shooting situations.

Keep an eye out for the "NIR" marking on the back of our HTP line, and stay tuned as the new HTP NIR material will be making its way to the rest of our HTP product line by the end of 2024.

Browse Our Rifle Hunting Accessories

At RailScales, we understand that firearm customization is a personal journey. That's why the HTP XOS scales are sold individually, allowing you to select the quantity that suits your preferences and needs. We're dedicated to providing you with the tools you need to elevate your shooting experience.

With the HTP XOS in MLOK, RailScales continues to set the standard for innovation and performance in the world of firearm accessories. Elevate your practice, elevate your skills, and elevate your entire shooting experience with RailScales. Make your firearm uniquely yours with our latest addition: the HTP XOS scales. Get ready to experience a new level of grip, control, and heat protection.

Hunting Considerations for AR-15 Platform Users

Hunters increasingly favor AR-15s for their adaptable, low-recoil, precision-oriented design that enables fast, consistent, and gear-flexible performance in demanding field conditions while supporting a growing ecosystem of durable, lightweight accessories.

Why AR-15s Are Becoming Increasingly Common Among Hunters

While the original blog highlights portability and adaptability, many hunters are turning to AR-15s for additional reasons:

• Reduced recoil compared to traditional bolt guns in similar calibers

• Match-grade triggers and modern barrels improving real-world accuracy

• Fast follow-up shots, which are critical in hog hunting and predator control

• Quiet suppressed performance, when using adjustable gas blocks and modern ammo

• Modular ergonomics allowing shooters with different body types or gear (gloves, jackets, chest rigs) to maintain consistent handling

As AR-15 hunting culture expands, accessory development (RailScales included) continues to prioritize lightweight, low-snag, temperature-resistant materials that withstand long days in the field.

Additional AR-15 Hunting Upper Considerations

Beyond caliber, barrel length, and gas system, many hunters benefit from upgrading:

Thermal or Low-Light Optics Integration

Modern hog, coyote, and predator hunting increasingly takes place at dusk or night. Hunters often pair:

• LPVOs for daytime

• Thermal clip-ons for night hunts

• Red-dot + magnifier combos for mixed environments

This optics flexibility makes consistent rail placement extremely important, which is where lightweight MLOK panels and heat-resistant rail covers shine.

Suppressor Performance

Many hunters now suppress their AR hunting rigs. Suppressors add heat and require grips and panels that:

• Reduce heat conduction

• Maintain structural integrity under rapid temperature cycling

• Provide stable grip for barricade work

RailScales G10 and HTP XOS panels excel here, helping maintain hand placement without glove melt or polymer deformation.

Expanded Guide: Handguard Features Hunters Should Look For

These handguard upgrades give hunters a warmer, more secure grip, smoother movement through brush, and better heat control during rapid strings of fire, all without adding unnecessary weight or bulk.

Slim Profiles for Glove Use

During colder hunts, gloves can make small handguards difficult to grip. RailScales panels help build a larger, more positive surface area without increasing weight.

Low-Snag Texturing

Dense brush environments require smooth integration between gear and rifle. MLOK panels with radiused edges reduce drag on straps, jackets, and foliage.

Heat Performance for Long Strings

Especially relevant for hog hunting, where multiple animals may be engaged quickly:

• G10 RailScales resist heat transfer

• HTP XOS provide wrap-around protection for high-temp handguards

This keeps the rifle controllable during extended engagements.

Additional Hunting Accessories

These compact control accessories help hunters maintain secure, consistent handling and stability in rough terrain and long treks, reducing snag risks while enabling steadier shots from improvised field positions.

Karve® Handstop for Hunting

Provides consistent indexing and prevents the support hand from creeping toward the muzzle — especially important when navigating brush, climbing, or using a suppressor.

Anchor™ Vertical Grip

Gives hunters improved weapon retention during:

• fast transitions

• uneven terrain

• wet or cold conditions

Vertical grips also stabilize shooting from improvised rests (trees, fences, rocks).

QDX® Sling Mount for Field Use

Perfect for hunters who carry rifles long distances. Benefits include:

• reduced snag hazard

• compatibility with both QD swivels & HK hooks

• ability to brace against barricades or trees

This helps stabilize long-distance shots without a bipod.

RSB / RSB-M Mini Grips

Ideal for lightweight hunting builds where minimalism matters. These grips keep rifles small, maneuverable, and ergonomic.

Enhanced HTP XOS Hunting Application Notes

HTP components give hunters reliable grip and control in freezing, wet, or messy conditions while staying cooler around suppressors and reducing infrared signature for night-ti

Benefits for Hunters

• Cold-weather performance: HTP resists becoming brittle in freezing environments, unlike some polymer rails.

• Heat mitigation during suppressed hunts: Hog and predator hunters using suppressors will appreciate drastically cooler contact points.

• Improved weapon retention: Mud, rain, and blood exposure can make rifles slippery. HTP XOS textured surfaces prevent grip loss.

• Low-light signature control: NIR-compliant material reduces visible IR emission — valuable for night hunters using thermal or NV gear.

Additional RailScales for AR Hunting Builds

These new low-profile mounts and ultralight support accessories give hunters cleaner light and sling integration, steadier field shooting, and less snag-prone rifles, while common AR-15 hunting questions boil down to matching legal requirements, caliber, and barrel length to the game and terrain.

Scout Pro Halftop Mount (NEW)

Perfect for hunters who run weapon lights.
It provides:

• extremely low-profile mounting

• strong recoil resistance

• perfect positioning for light activation with gloves

This is particularly useful in thick brush or low-light hog hunting.

LAO™ Sling Mount (NEW)

Hunters can attach lights or slings without adding bulky components to their handguard.
The LAO mount’s minimalist footprint means:

• fewer snag points

• improved balance

• compatibility with wide-angle illumination setups

BOLO™ Bipod Slinglet (NEW)

Ideal for hunters who need a compact bipod alternative without traditional bipod weight.
Allows:

• stabilized prone or kneeling shots

• sling tension shooting

• minimal added bulk

This greatly benefits backcountry hunters where every ounce matters.

Additional Hunting-Specific FAQ 

Is the AR-15 legal for hunting in my state?

Most states allow AR-15s for hunting, but restrictions may apply based on caliber or magazine capacity. Always check your local regulations.

What is the best caliber for deer hunting with an AR-15?

Common hunting calibers include:

• 6.5 Grendel

• .350 Legend

• .300 Blackout (short-range)

• .450 Bushmaster (large game)

Your choice depends heavily on distance and game type.

Does adding a handstop or vertical grip help in hunting?

Yes — improved hand placement reduces fatigue and increases rapid shot accuracy, particularly when moving or shooting from improvised rests.

Is MLOK better than KeyMod for hunting?

MLOK tends to be:

• stronger

• more widely compatible

• more heat resistant

This makes it a better long-term choice for hunting rifles.

Does barrel length matter for hunting with an AR-15?

Yes — longer barrels provide more velocity, while shorter barrels improve maneuverability. For open terrain hunting, 18–20 inches is common; for brush or hog hunting, 10.5–16 inches may be preferred (where legal).

Browse our selection of AR Hunting Accessories Today

Hunters today demand rifles that are customizable, lightweight, and adaptable across multiple environments. The AR-15, combined with modern accessories like RailScales G10 panels, HTP XOS upgrades, sling mounts, handstops, and lighting solutions, creates a platform capable of handling nearly any hunting scenario. Whether you're stalking elk in the mountains, calling coyotes at night, or managing hog populations, the right AR-15 accessories in 2026 make an immediate and measurable difference. With RailScales, you can build a hunting rifle that’s rugged, reliable, and tailored to your exact needs.