null

RailScales: A Guide to AR-15 MLOK Rail Panels

Posted by RailScales LLC on Dec 2nd 2024

RailScales: A Guide to AR-15 MLOK Rail Panels

AR15 mlok rail panels

As more modern AR rail systems incorporated new methods for accessory attachment, while continuing to get thinner and lighter in order to accommodate the new equipment, a need arose for a product to mitigate heat transfer to the rail. It wasn’t until 2014 when RailScales offered their first set of panels made of FR-4 (commonly known as G10) that a shift was seen in the appeal of having hardware-mounted, machined rail panels attached to the firearm. RailScales has continued to drive innovation in this space, and others, in the years since their namesake product was released, and they remain a steadfast name in the industry.  Read more from RailScales on the A Guide to AR-15 MLOK Rail Panels now.

AR-15 MLOK Rail Covers -  The Epitome Of Excellence

RailScales has continued to evolve its accessory offerings, however their AR-15 MLOK rail covers still stand apart as the premier product for a variety of reasons. Utilizing the heat resistant capability of G10, combined with its use as a durable and lightweight material that was machinable on CNC, as well as tight hardware tolerance specifications and made in the USA, RailScales found a niche in the industry that had been sorely missing. The advent of additional texture options to their lineup, and more recently new color options as well, only helps to cement their claim of offering the best MLOK rail covers in the industry.

Diverse Options For All Shooters

In addition to their namesake panels, RailScales also offers an allotment of other MLOK rail cover options that give diversity to an already fantastic lineup of products. The HTP Scales take the popular G10 version of RailScales panels and textures into a more affordable polymer molded variation. These not only offer customers the same great textures as the pricier machined items but also include additional color options that are not available elsewhere. If the desired effect is to cover more MLOK rail space to ensure maximum heat protection, RailScales also makes a version of their AR-15 MLOK rail covers called XOS which give a wraparound feel and cover twice as much surface area as their traditional panels.

AR15 mlok rail

XOS Scales - Top AR 15 Accessory

One of the later additions to the RailScales lineup of AR-15 rail panels is its 3-sided XOS Scales. An expansion on the traditional version, these were designed with maximum rail coverage and grip purchase in mind. Composed of the same FR4 material as its RailScales panels, by adding a 135º wing coming off of each side of the mounting flat, RailScales engineered a panel that effectively doubles the surface area of coverage inside the same mounting footprint. Most recently, RailScales began to add its TerraCore option, an FDE-colored version of its namesake best AR-15 rail panels, to its already abundant product lineup.

Customize & Upgrade 

With the substantial variety of engineering design, materials, and color schemes available, RailScales gives customers no shortage of options to make any AR-15 custom fit for them. Look forward to future products from RailScales to continue to add functional and aesthetically pleasing options for customizing and upgrading the AR15 platform.

best MLOK rail

RailScales XOS & Solo Series: Advanced MLOK Rail Accessories for AR-15 Customization

RailScales has established itself as a leader in AR-15 accessories, particularly with its innovative MLOK rail covers and grip solutions. The XOS and Solo Series represent the pinnacle of versatility and durability for AR-15 rail systems, providing both functionality and aesthetics. These products are designed to cater to different needs, from extended grip coverage to lightweight, low-profile options, allowing AR owners to build their ideal setup.

RailScales XOS Series: Comprehensive Offerings for MLOK Rail Systems

The RailScales XOS Series offers extended grip and rail coverage solutions, specifically designed for MLOK rail systems. The XOS Series includes several options to suit diverse AR-15 configurations and user preferences, with the hallmark being its 3-sided design that maximizes rail protection and heat dissipation.

types of MLOK rail panels

XOS Scales

  • Description: The original XOS Scales feature a 3-sided design with 135º wings extending from the mounting flat, effectively doubling the surface area covered compared to traditional rail covers.
  • Features:
    • 3-sided grip coverage for maximum control
    • Multiple textures, including Honeycomb and Matrix, for customized grip
    • CNC-machined from G10 (FR-4) material for durability and heat resistance
    • Available in popular colors like Black, FDE, OD Green, Sniper Grey, and TerraCore
  • Best Use: Ideal for longer MLOK rail setups where extended grip surface and heat protection are priorities.

best AR-15 MLOK rail panels

XOS-H Scales

  • Description: The XOS-H Scales build upon the original XOS design by integrating an accessory cutout, allowing seamless integration with other RailScales accessories.
  • Features:
    • 3-sided design with accessory cutout for modular attachment
    • G10 construction for heat resistance
    • Available in various colors and textures
  • Best Use: Perfect for users who want to add accessories like the Karve handstop or Anchor grip without sacrificing grip area.

top mlok rail panels

XOS-H HTP Scales

  • Description: The XOS-H HTP Scales provide the same design as the XOS-H, but are crafted from High Temp Polymer (HTP) for a more affordable option with additional color ways.
  • Features:
    • High Temp Polymer material for reduced weight and cost
    • Same 3-sided design with accessory cutout
    • Available in colors such as Black, FDE Tan, Sniper Grey, and OD Green
  • Best Use: Great for lightweight builds or those prioritizing affordability without compromising functionality.

best ar panels

XOS-H TerraCore Scales

  • Description: TerraCore adds an FDE-colored option to the XOS-H lineup, designed for outdoor environments where blending with natural surroundings is preferred.
  • Features:

  • TerraCore color, ideal for desert or arid environments
  • 3-sided coverage with accessory cutout
  • Durable G10 material for superior heat resistance
  • Best Use: Ideal for users needing a camouflage option with all the benefits of the XOS-H design.

RailScales Solo Series: Slim, Lightweight MLOK Rail Accessories

For AR-15 users seeking low-profile and lightweight options, the RailScales Solo Series offers compact rail covers that deliver essential grip without bulk. The Solo Series is perfect for users who prefer a minimalist design while still benefiting from RailScales' renowned grip and heat resistance.

railscales AR15 scales

Solo MLOK Rail Covers

  • Description: Solo Rail Covers are sleek, single-slot panels that add grip without unnecessary weight or size, ideal for users focused on a streamlined build.
  • Features:
    • Low-profile, single-slot MLOK design
    • Available in multiple textures and colors, including Black, FDE, OD Green, and Sniper Grey
    • Lightweight High Temp Polymer (HTP) material for durability
  • Best Use: Perfect for AR-15 users who want to add grip to their rail without adding bulk, especially on short or lightweight builds.

HTP Solo Scales

  • Description: The HTP Solo Scales are injection-molded High Temp Polymer panels that offer all the benefits of RailScales’ premium designs at a budget-friendly price.
  • Features:
    • Injection-molded HTP material for heat resistance and durability
    • Thin and lightweight, adding grip without bulk
    • Textured grip surface for enhanced control in various conditions
  • Best Use: Suitable for all MLOK-compatible ARs, particularly where cost-effectiveness and low profile are priorities.

New RailScales Products: Expanding Your AR Customization

RailScales continues to innovate with new products that cater to a variety of AR-15 configurations. Here are some recent additions to their lineup:

Scout Pro Hardtop™ Mount

A patent-pending 1 MLOK slot base for SureFire Pro rotating light bodies, offering up to 210º rotation. This mount is designed to be reversible with fore/aft adjustment within its mounting footprint.

    • Material: 7075 Aluminum
    • Colors: Carbon Black, Terra Bronze
    • Best Use: Ideal for mounting lights on AR-15 setups requiring adjustable positioning.
    • Scout Pro Halftop™ Mount

Scout Pro Halftop™ Mount

Specifically designed for compact PDWs like the Sig Rattler LT, this 1/2-slot MLOK base provides similar functionality to the Hardtop but is optimized for tighter setups.

  • Material: 7075 Aluminum
  • Colors: Carbon Black, Terra Bronze
  • Best Use: Best suited for shorter MLOK rail systems, providing light mounting options on compact builds

MonoLift™ Riser

Originally developed for a UK MoD contract, this rise is engineered for optimized optic placement and compatibility with Sig MCX LT variants.

  • Material: 7075 Aluminum
  • Features: Allows for a heads-up posture, compatible with optics like Romeo8T and Juliet4.
  • Best Use: Enhances setups requiring elevated optics, reducing canting issues and allowing greater rearward optic placement

FAQ for RailScales XOS & Solo Series and Accessories

Q: What is the primary difference between the XOS and Solo Series?
A: The XOS Series offers extended grip coverage with a 3-sided design and accessory cutouts in the XOS-H models, ideal for users needing maximum surface area. The Solo Series is focused on single-slot, low-profile rail covers for minimal bulk and weight.

Q: Can XOS-H Scales be used with other RailScales accessories?
A: Yes, XOS-H Scales feature an accessory cutout compatible with handstops and vertical grips such as the Karve and Anchor, providing modularity without additional mounts.

Q: Are TerraCore Scales available in the Solo Series?
A: TerraCore is currently available for select XOS models, offering an FDE color option ideal for camouflaging in outdoor settings. The Solo Series primarily includes HTP colors.

Q: Which RailScales rail cover should I choose for a lightweight build?
A: For a lightweight setup, the HTP Solo Scales or XOS-H HTP Scales are recommended due to their High Temp Polymer construction, which offers heat resistance at a reduced weight.

Q: Are all RailScales products compatible with MLOK rail systems?
A: Yes, both the XOS and Solo Series are designed specifically for MLOK compatibility, providing a secure fit and easy installation across various MLOK rails.

Q: How do XOS-H TerraCore Scales benefit hunting applications?

A: TerraCore Scales offer an FDE color, providing camouflage for hunting environments while retaining the heat-resistant and durable features of G10 material.

guide to mlok rail panels


Disclaimer:

This blog content was generated by a human and with the aid of artificial intelligence. It may contain errors or inaccuracies and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. This content is for SEO/entertainment purposes only and the views expressed in this content does not necessarily reflect the views of RailScales LLC. For more information, please refer to bullet point #13 on our FAQ.