The modern AR-15 rail platform has evolved more over the course of the last two decades than at any time since Eli Whitney introduced the world to the idea of interchangeable parts. As the best AR-15 Rail Covers in 2024, we are ecstatic for this innovation. There are few areas where this is more prominent than the advent of using some variation of rail cover, among other accessories, as an addition to the AR-15 rail. In the sport shooting world, a rifle build would now be considered incomplete without the addition of a host of third party AR-15 accessories attached. Whether they are a functional part of the firearm, or simply adding a personal aesthetic to the weapon, rail covers have become a staple in the industry. What led to the rise in popularity of these types of accessories, and do they actually help to improve the shooting experience? Learn more about the best AR-15 rail covers in 2024 from RailScales now.
Best AR-15 Rail Covers In 2024
Prior to the expiration of the Assault Weapons Ban in the United States, that ended in 2004, there was little innovation outside of military use in regards to AR-15 rail accessories. If civilians were able to legally own a rifle, it was typically outfitted with 1913 Picatinny as this was standard use in the military at the time. Picatinny was used as a standard that could give a uniform and repeatable attachment method that any manufacturer could reliably test fitment on. As Picatinny rails tend to be rough to the touch, with sharp metal edges that can make shooting, or even holding the weapon an uncomfortable experience, rail covers were introduced to address these drawbacks. However, as there was little market incentive at the time to develop new products for this platform, it remained relatively dormant, and rail covers were still seen as a tertiary accessory to the overall performance of the weapon. Once the AR-15 platform was available to civilians, this started a cascade of manufacturers looking to create products and build an industry around rails and rail accessories for this virtually untapped market space.
A Functional and Aesthetically Focused AR-15 Rail
As the AR-15 rail platform continued to evolve over the years, new methods for attaching the best AR parts to the weapon started to gain popularity. There have been a number of proprietary attachment methods developed, however the most notable innovations in this area were the advent of Keymod and more recently Magpul’s MLOK style of rail. These two are specifically important, as they allowed for any manufacturer to make products that could be attached to the firearm based on repeatable specifications, and no longer needed to rely on the manufacturer of the rail to be the only option for accessorizing. With the explosion of rail covers and other rail accessories starting to flood the market, industry heavyweights like Magpul, Knights Armament, and Bravo Company would all introduce their own variants in primarily polymer to help the end-user accessorize their rail. As shorter and lighter rails became more prominent, the need for a product to mitigate heat from the barrel would inspire manufacturers like RailScales to look at possible solutions, and take rail covers from an extra aesthetic to a necessary addition to any rail.
AR 15 Accessories Personalization: Heat Resistant - Increased Grip - Style
With the release of their G10 Railscales, a top recommended AR 15 accessory, the company’s namesake, a real push to make rail covers a functional part of the firearm that could drastically improve the end-user experience started to arise. RailScales has since continued to innovate new and useful designs to add to their initial offerings, adding a lineup of polymer products in their HTP Scales that are heat resistant and give additional grip texture, at a fraction of the cost. The modern shooter wants their AR-15 to be a personalized tool, and RailScales has made this possible with modular rail cover accessories in a variety of materials, colors, textures and lengths so that not only improve the user experience, but makes it their own.
FAQs on AR-15 Rail Covers and Accessories
Q1: What led to the rise in popularity of AR-15 rail covers and accessories?
The popularity of AR-15 rail covers and accessories surged after the expiration of the Assault Weapons Ban in 2004, opening up opportunities for civilian firearm ownership. This led to a wave of innovation from manufacturers looking to cater to the growing market demand for customizable AR-15 platforms.
Q2: Do rail covers actually improve the shooting experience?
Yes, rail covers serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. They provide a comfortable and secure grip on the firearm, reducing discomfort and improving control during shooting. Additionally, they protect the shooter's hands from sharp edges and heat generated by the barrel.
Q3: What are some notable innovations in AR-15 rail attachment methods?
Keymod and MLOK are two significant innovations in AR-15 rail attachment methods. These systems allow for the attachment of accessories to the firearm based on repeatable specifications, providing versatility and flexibility for the end-user. Keymod has fallen off in recent years due to the more reliable nature of MLOK attachment.
Q4: How has RailScales contributed to the evolution of AR-15 rail covers?
RailScales has played a significant role in advancing AR-15 rail covers from mere aesthetics to functional components. Their G10 RailScales offer enhanced grip and heat resistance, making them a top recommended accessory for AR-15 users seeking improved performance and customization. Since RailScales inception in 2014 they have had many imitators come and go, yet none have been able to innovate in the rail cover space quite like RailScales.
Q5: Are RailScales products available in different materials, colors, and textures?
Yes, RailScales offers modular rail cover accessories in a variety of materials, including G10 and polymer, as well as a range of colors and textures to suit individual preferences and customization needs.
RailScales: Elevating Your AR-15 Rail Covers in 2024
RailScales is at the forefront of innovation in AR-15 Rail covers in 2024, offering a diverse lineup of high-quality rail covers and grips designed to enhance the shooting experience. From their flagship G10 RailScales to the heat-resistant and textured HTP Scales, RailScales provides shooters with functional and stylish solutions for personalizing their firearms.
Key AR-15 Rail Products in 2024:
- G10 RailScales: Crafted from durable G10 material, these rail covers offer unparalleled grip and heat resistance, ensuring a secure hold and improved control during shooting.
- HTP Scales: RailScales' polymer products provide additional grip texture and heat resistance at a fraction of the cost, making them an excellent choice for shooters seeking functional enhancements.
Customization Options: With a variety of materials, colors, textures, and lengths available, RailScales allows shooters to customize their AR-15s according to their preferences, making each firearm a personalized tool tailored to individual needs.
Experience the difference with RailScales and elevate your AR-15 shooting experience. Visit railscales.us to explore their full range of products and follow RailScales on social media for the latest updates and releases.