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Posted: 4/17/2015 1:27:00 AM EDT
Hey guys, I am in the market for a free float rail for my Colt le6920. I like the look of the Geissele SMR Style rails, particularly the Mk2 because of its price, but it also looks rather heavy. Also, I'm not sure whether I should look into keymod rails or not, as I've never handled them before. I will also need a low profile has block and would like some advice on models to look into. I don't want to spend boat loads of money on this rifle, ( problably around $250 max for a rail) but I'd like a quality product that I can trust. Thanks for the help again. 
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Well, welcome and get ready to be overwhelmed!
The good news is you couldn't have picked a better time. As an AR enthusiast, the quality and downright plethora of parts these days is excellent. I myself, like lightweight modular rails. Because they are light, versatile, and I don't mount many accessories. But I can't pick what you will like. My advice is to work in steps with your selection. Choose whether you want full quad, modular bolt-on rail style, keymod, or even M-Lok. Then look at your budget you're willing to spend. Don't forget to look at your preferred length and weight requirements. I can tell you firsthand there is a very noticeable difference between a 10oz rail, and a 15oz. All that being said, you will be happy with just about any reputable companies rail system. There are truly not many bad choices unless you dig around for some super cheap fleabay specials. If you narrow down what your requirements are, myself and others can help guide you further with our experiences. As for gas blocks.... Keep it simple. I say YHM for gas blocks all the time. Why? Because they are as good as most others, cheap, and they just plain work. No need to spend more unnecessarily. You can pick them up for around $25-$30. Edited to add: I noticed you have a 6920. You can save money and have one of the best gas blocks by simply cutting down your existing front sight tower. I'm not saying you will want to do that, but it is a great option. Not difficult, and will just take some of your time. |
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foursixty nailed it.
I couldn't have imagined 5 years ago the selection we have today. I switched to Keymod last summer and don't plan to ever go back; light, smooth, small diameter, and only mount what/where I need. And there are a ton of makers in the market, new and old turning out crazy cool, quality pieces to choose from. I don't think you'll regret a Keymod rail, but if you do somebody here will snatch it up quick and you can move on. As for gas blocks, I've run no fewer than a half dozen, and again agree with foursixty - the happiest/most secure I've felt is after cutting down the FSB on my current upper, smoothing the edges, and then spray painting it black. No screws to jack with, no misalignment, etc. I get to use the stock pins to ensure it's not going anywhere and that it is aligned properly. I say that's the way to go if you don't need an adjustable block. If you don't like it, you're out only a few bucks and can still use it until you get a new one. Do what I did: google "Keymod rails" and surf the thousands of pics and see what's out there. I finally settled on the NSR, but there are about 6 more I'd like to get my hands on and see in person. Good luck! |
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Quoted:
I'm extremely happy with my 15" ALG EMR V1. Stupidly light weight, comfortable to hold, M-Lok slots, very easy to install, well made, and probably the best bang for the buck out there right now (in my opinion). They start at $100; my 15" rail was $145. +1 on the ALG EMR V1 Got my 13" for $110. You just can't beat um with a stick! |
Alright thanks for the info so far guys. I'm thinking about either the Geissele SMR Mk2 in sand, the Daniel Defense lite/ Slim rail, or the BCM KMR 15' rail, my question is will a Daniel Defense .750 clamp on low profile gas block fit under the BCM rail? It seems a lot tighter under that handguard and i just want to make sure everything will fit before i make my order. Thanks!  Also, would you rather have a B5 systems Sopmod stock or the B5 Bravo for its lighter weight?
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| Thanks for your advice man! You seem very knowledgeable on the AR platform in general and i appreciate the help. Do you have a preference on either a normal gas block and adding a dimple to the barrel or a clamp on system? My friend who just got past BUDs swears by clamp on systems, but im not exactly sure if its worth the extra price or not. |
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Quoted:
Thanks for your advice man! You seem very knowledgeable on the AR platform in general and i appreciate the help. Do you have a preference on either a normal gas block and adding a dimple to the barrel or a clamp on system? My friend who just got past BUDs swears by clamp on systems, but im not exactly sure if its worth the extra price or not. Not sure who you were responding to but I think I can help steer you with your last questions. As far as gas blocks in general it goes pinned > clamp > set-screw. A pinned block ( especially like your factory front sight base ) is the strongest and most secure method of attachment. That's why I recommend cutting down your front sight and making it a low profile unit. You won't be able to buy a better, stronger block. That being said, some don't want to do that for several reasons. Most are scared to "mess it up", but honestly it isn't difficult with time, patience, and a few fairly basic tools. Others don't want to mutilate their stock sight base in case they find it necessary to return the rifle back to stock configuration at a later date. This reasoning is understandable. Now let's briefly go over your other two options. I would say clamped is a very strong attachment method. However a quality set-screw block that is mounted correctly is more than adequate. I've not had one come loose. And the gas blocks will be hidden and protected under a handguard anyway. The benefit of clamped blocks vs. set-screw is naturally strength. But it comes at a cost. The majority of all clamp blocks are too big to fit under today's small uber light free float rails. A lot of rails these days only have 1.3" inner diameter, so this is something to consider. The only clamp style block that I'm aware of that is small enough is made by SLR. It is a quality piece, but relatively expensive vs. other options. Set screw blocks are normally the smallest other than a few exceptions. I like YHM blocks because they are cheap and work just fine. But there is a heap of options out there. Larue, BCM, MI, etc, etc. If I was buying a gas block tomorrow and I wanted one that was small, light, and bombproof, I would seriously consider the set screw model made by Geisselle. It is installed with screws but it also comes with a shoulder area made specifically for pinning. It even comes with the hardware to pin it. It would be more than solid. All in all stick to name brands and make sure to focus on what will fit under the handguard you choose. Remember that although there are differences in mounting strength between the methods above, they all work well when they are installed correctly. I apologize for being long winded, I just hope I was clear enough in the message. If not, ask any questions you may have. This site has many people that know more than I, and can lay things out better. Lol. Hope I've helped. Best of luck!
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| Yeah I was trying to reply to you foursixty, but I couldn't figure out how to Add your quote when I can't post that many words yet due to being a new member haha. You've done an excellent job in clearing the whole gas block debacle up for me, and I appreciate the long, thorough response. I'd like to write more in my posts but it's hard to write on a tiny phone screen between work or classes :p. Thanks for all the help, I look forward to continued learning on this site with all of the kind members such as yourself! |
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