For many users of the AR-15 platform, a vertical forward grip (or VFG) is one of the most common AR-15 accessories that are sought out to improve shooting performance. It’s not difficult to see the advantages provided by adding a support point for the second hand to control the muzzle climb on the weapon and stabilize the shooting position. The AR-15 vertical forward grip, in any of the many variations available on the market, will offer a wide array of useful additions to the modern firearm. However, while they may be one of the most popular items that make their way onto the modern AR-15 MLOK rail system, there are other options available on the market which can offer similar advantages to the vertical forward grip without the added bulk and weight at the end of the weapon. One such accessory is the Karve MLOK handstop, by RailScales.

AR-15 MLOK Handstop vs Vertical Forward Grip

First becoming popular in the last decade, with the advent of the Keymod and later on the MLOK rail system, the AR-15 MLOK Handstop is a relatively new component making waves in the firearms industry. As opposed to the vertical forward grip, the MLOK handstop generally sits much closer to the rail, providing support for the second hand while keeping a sleek, low-profile look. Products, like the Karve in MLOK by RailScales, are designed with this in mind, creating a barrier to prevent the hand from slipping from the optimum position, or a barricade stop to press against barriers for additional support. Without the added bulk of a VFG at the front of the weapon, an end-user can get on target more quickly, and lessens the impact of the weapon getting snagged or hindered by the forward grip jutting off of the MLOK rail. As more and more shooters look to lighter and shorter builds, the AR-15 Handstop in MLOK will soon become the premier choice for the modern shooter.

Perfecting The AR-15 Handstop

Once the benefit of using an AR-15 handstop becomes obvious, there are still many varieties available on the market to select. Though not the original creators of the AR-15 handstop, RailScales put their best efforts into perfecting the idea with their Karve. Almost 7 years into its existence, it’s still one of the most popular and sought-after items for users in both Keymod and MLOK. RailScales manufactures all of its products in the US, so quality control and the materials used are a large part of what makes this product stand out. Machined out of 6061 aluminum for added durability, while using lightening cuts to prevent extra weight, the Karve can look unassuming coming out of the box. However, RailScales was looking to the future with the Karve’s design, including their patented COG system to quickly change between Keymod and MLOK rails, a bi-directional feature that allows for the Karve to be used in either the push or pull configuration and a crimped rear for use as a barricade stop. With multiple ways to utilize the features provided, the Karve stands apart from other AR-15 MLOK handstops.

Enhance and Personalize Your AR-15 Platform

Additionally, when looking for a way to enhance and personalize the AR-15 platform, most users want to have options and alternatives to fit their particular setup. Fortunately, RailScales not only has multiple anodizing colors available for their premier aluminum version of the Karve, ranging from Carbon Black, Terra Bronze, and Orbital Grey, but they also make an economical polymer version as well. The Karve-P by RailScales offers many of the same great features of their aluminum version at a fraction of the cost, so there are options available for most any user. The Karve by RailScales truly sets the standard for AR-15 handstops in MLOK. Interested in learning more or discovering other AR-15 accessories? Shop now.