The Weaver rail mount and the Picatinny rail mount are systems that are used to mount a variety of different components to almost any type of weapon. There is a difference between the two, but not much at all. They are so close that when advertised, manufactures will identify them as a Weaver/Picatinny rail mount. They are used on handguns, shot guns, rifles and even bow and arrow systems. The military uses them extensively on weapons like the M16, AR15, M4 etc. Just to name a few. By changing out the forward hand grip on the AR15, you could mount four different components to the weapon.

Component Possibilities

You can get these systems on line for just about any weapon, but for this discussion we will use the AR15 as our example. By replacing the standard forward hand grip with an available four sided Weaver/Picatinny grip, we can add four components to our gun. On top you could mount a scope, but typically the scope would be mounted more towards the rear in the gun handle area, but there are iron sights that can be mounted on the top of the grip if you choose to go that route. On the sides at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions, possible applications could be a laser and a tactical light. At the bottom, the 6 o’clock position, we could mount a vertical hand grip, also for the bottom there are bi pod systems available and you can buy those with a bayonet lug and have a knife at the end of your gun. You can really have fun adding parts to your AR15.

The added weight

Obviously, if you go ahead and really trick your gun out, you will have added weight at the front of your gun, so you will want to choose your ad on components carefully. Take for instance, flash lights, there are MANY different ones to choose from and they are made from different materials and some are heavier than others, the same goes for lasers, bi pods, vertical hand grips, bayonets and the rail grip itself. Some are made of aluminum and some are made of composite materials, which are said to weight up to 50% less, which would, in my opinion be my first choice.

Future applications

If you want to load your AR15 with multiple ad ons, but can’t afford to do it all at ounce, like me, start with the 4 position hand grip rail and ad on when you can. There are models you can buy that feature covers that will conceal the unused rail, while still providing proper ventilation and a smooth look.

In closing

Adding parts to your AR15 can be allot of fun, whether you are doing it for the cosmetics or for true functionality. It all depends what type of shooter you are, but whatever the case my be, have fun and exercise safety.