The increase of privately owned AR-15 style firearms over the last two decades has seen a marked increase in demand for new accessories and/or AR-15 Accessories, to enhance the shooting experience or improve performance. There have been innovative new products, as well as aesthetic improvements that have no functional purpose on the rifle, and some niche items have also been developed to fill the growing need for accessorizing a weapon. It can be difficult to navigate this market and determine which products will actually benefit the end-user, let alone find the right product to fit in a budget. Fortunately, companies like RailScales, who gained brand recognition for their namesake AR-15 rail panels, have continued to develop new and useful AR15 accessories for the MLOK AR-15 rail to keep fresh and innovative new products coming at regular intervals.
Design and Features: AR-15 Accessories for MLOK
MLOK uses a series of slots machined into the rail or handguard, allowing for the attachment of accessories using T-nuts that fit into the slots and lock into place when tightened. This design provides several advantages over traditional rail systems, including:
- Increased Flexibility: MLOK allows accessories to be attached at various points along the rail, offering more customization options compared to fixed Picatinny rails.
- Reduced Weight: MLOK rails are generally lighter than traditional Picatinny rails because they don't require continuous metal sections. This reduction in weight is significant for shooters looking to maintain a lightweight rifle.
- Improved Durability: The MLOK system's T-nut design provides a secure connection, reducing the risk of accessories becoming loose or detaching during use.
Adoption and Popularity
Since its introduction, the MLOK system has become widely adopted by both civilian and military users. The U.S. Military conducted tests comparing MLOK to KeyMod, with results showing MLOK's superiority in terms of durability, impact resistance, and overall reliability. This led to the military's preference for MLOK in various applications, further boosting its popularity.
The MLOK system's open-source nature also contributed to its rapid adoption. By allowing other manufacturers to design and produce MLOK-compatible accessories, Magpul ensured that the system would become a standard in the industry, driving innovation and providing shooters with a wide range of options.
A Product Addition For More Rail Types
One AR-15 product that RailScales offers is an updated take on a classic AR-15 accessory. In the past, companies like Heckler & Koch, Magpul, and others have offered a quick-detach or hook version to mount a sling to the AR-15 platform for easy and safe carry. In an effort to envelope more rail platforms and sling styles into one usable product, RailScales developed the QDX, an inline sling mount capable of attaching both quick-detach slings as well as HK style hook slings. Rather than having the QD mount at 90º to the rail, the inline QDX allows for the sling to be attached closer to the rail and stay parallel to the sling when mounted.
RailScales Popular MLOK Accessories For AR-15s
Popular MLOK accessories are highly functional, durable, and easy to install, often made from high-quality materials like aluminum or reinforced polymer. They are lightweight to maintain firearm maneuverability, versatile for multiple purposes, and compatible with a wide range of MLOK-compatible firearms. Ergonomics and aesthetics also play a role, as well as the reputation of the brand and competitive pricing. Examples include rail sections, foregrips, bipods, flashlight mounts, and sling attachments, all designed to enhance the firearm's usability and user experience.
RailScales Karve Handstop
The Karve Handstop is a compact and lightweight MLOK attachment that enhances control and stability. It is designed to prevent your hand from slipping off the rail, providing a consistent point of reference for your grip. The ergonomic shape of the Karve Handstop allows for comfortable handling, making it ideal for both recreational shooting and tactical applications.
RailScales G10 Rail Covers
RailScales G10 Rail Covers are designed to be ultra-lightweight and thin, making them a great choice for AR-15 users looking to maintain a streamlined profile. Made from G10, a durable fiberglass laminate, these covers are heat-resistant and provide a comfortable, non-slip grip. With various textures and colors available, you can customize your rifle to suit your style and needs.
With Product Innovation Comes Functional Solutions
RailScales continues to show that finding functional solutions to common problems for AR-15 shooters can drive product innovation. When looking for new AR-15 accessories, RailScales can be counted on for creating excellent new products right here in the US that are aesthetically pleasing to look at, and give a clean and low-profile mounted product that enhances many aspects of shooting the AR-15. Interested in alleviating some of your common problems with shooting or performance? Learn more from RailScales today.
When There Is An AR-15 Accessory Need, RailScales Accepts The Call
RailScales has a track record of seeing a “need” in the industry and creating products to solve specific pain points for the end-user of their AR-15 weapon platform. The Ampule was one of the earliest AR-15 accessories developed by RailScales that didn’t attach to the firearm directly using the MLOK platform. Going to the range usually involves having multiple adjustment tools available; with Eotech or Aimpoint being both the most popular on the market, as well as the most copied items offered. The Ampule sight adjustment tool allows for adjustments on Aimpoint’s flagship T1 and T2 products, as well as anything else using the “two dot” adjustment system. It also includes a flat head side to adjust Atpial lasers or a number of other sights that require flat head adjustment. Constructed of durable 7075 aluminum, the Ampule by RailScales makes an excellent addition to any range bag.
Popular Niche AR-15 Accessory: The LEAF Series
One of the more niche AR-15 accessory products that RailScales developed, which has increased in popularity now that more shooters are using night-vision gear, is the LEAF series of fixed front backup sights for the DBAL and ATPIAL night vision lasers. The LEAF was developed in an effort to shorten the number of Picatinny slots used by backup iron sights. Traditionally, a user would have to place a full front post in front of the laser unit to have the option for an accurate sight picture if their optic or laser went down. RailScales created the LEAF to sit directly on top of the laser and mount in preexisting threaded holes, thereby freeing up valuable rail space on top. Initially geared toward the military and law enforcement, this innovative AR-15 product has now become synonymous with a DBAL front sight.
FAQs about the Best AR-15 Accessories for MLOK
1. What are the primary types of AR-15 accessories RailScales offers?
RailScales offers a variety of the best AR-15 accessories in 2023, 2024 and beyond. Including rail panels, sight adjustment tools, fixed front backup sights, and sling mounts. These products are designed to enhance the shooting experience, improve performance, and address specific pain points for AR-15 users.
2. What is the Ampule and how does it benefit AR-15 users?
The Ampule is a sight adjustment tool that allows for adjustments on Aimpoint's T1 and T2 products and other optics using the "two dot" adjustment system. It also includes a flat head side for adjusting Atpial lasers and other sights requiring flat head adjustment. Made from durable 7075 aluminum, the Ampule is a handy addition to any range bag.
3. Can you explain the LEAF Series and its use case?
The LEAF Series consists of fixed front backup sights designed for DBAL and ATPIAL night vision lasers. These sights mount directly on top of the laser, using preexisting threaded holes, freeing up valuable rail space. Initially intended for military and law enforcement, the LEAF Series has gained popularity among civilian shooters using night-vision gear.
4. How does the QDX sling mount differ from traditional sling mounts?
The QDX is an inline sling mount that can attach both quick-detach (QD) slings and HK style hook slings. Unlike traditional mounts that position the QD at a 90º angle to the rail, the QDX allows for closer attachment to the rail, keeping the sling parallel when mounted. This design provides a more streamlined and functional solution for sling attachment.
5. Why should I choose RailScales products for my AR-15?
RailScales is known for innovative design and high-quality manufacturing. Their products are not only functional and durable but also aesthetically pleasing. Made in the USA, RailScales AR accessories are designed to solve specific problems faced by AR-15 users, offering clean, low-profile solutions that enhance the overall shooting experience.
6. Are RailScales products compatible with all AR-15 models?
RailScales products are designed to be compatible with most AR-15 models and popular rail systems. However, it is always recommended to check the product specifications and compatibility details provided by RailScales to ensure a proper fit for your specific setup.
7. How do I get support if I have issues with my RailScales products?
RailScales offers customer support through their website and email. For any questions regarding product compatibility or other inquiries, you can reach out to them directly for assistance.
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.