For some AR-15 guys it’s picatinny or bust. For them there is no alternative- they’re almost offended by the idea. However, for others new and exciting choices make life more interesting. For them, the market has really stepped up to the plate in the last few years.
New accessory mounting standards like M-LOK provide a straightforward and reliable option for AR-15 enthusiasts who don’t like the bulk of some picatinny rails or simply don’t want all the rail space. They need something simple and comfortable, that is aesthetically pleasing with room to grow. M-LOK rails are great for that.
Like a lot of new technologies, it sometimes takes a little while to gain traction. Fortunately, the market for M-LOK rail accessories has matured nicely. There are now tons of great add-ons that will take your rifle or pistol from mild to wild and anything in between. I’ve used a number of M-LOK rail accessories and to help narrow down the options, I’ve curated a simple list of 10 excellent pieces that work great and won’t break the bank.
Magpul M-LOK QD Sling Mount
The M-LOK QD Sling Mount provides a forward attachment point for the Magpul MS4 Sling and other push-button quick disconnect slings. Machined from anodized aluminum, the M-LOK QD Sling Mount features beveled edges to reduce snagging and has an anti-rotation design that prevents swivels from spinning. It’s super low-profile too, which provides a lot of functionality without being obtrusive or bulky.
GET INFO: $19Magpul M-LOK Aluminum Rail Sections
Designed for use with all M-LOK compatible rails, Magpul’s M-LOK Aluminum Rail Sections allow the attachment of various picatinny spec rail-mounted accessories such as lights, vertical grips, iron sights, etc. Machined from anodized aluminum, these rail sections also feature beveled ends to reduce snagging and eliminate sharp corners and edges.
GET INFO: $10+Kinetic Kinect M-LOK Quick Detach Rail Section
Kinetic’s Kinect system offers a quick and sturdy method of attaching a picatinny rail section while eliminating common issues like over-tightening. And the best part is you don’t need any extra tools. There are two spring-loaded wedges in the base of the Kinect mounting point. When you press the accessory or rail section down in the M-LOK slot, two tiny deployment triggers get pressed against the rail firing the wedges into place.
GET INFO: $50Midwest Industries M-LOK Barricade Stop
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Barricade Stop will mount to any M-LOK capable rail system and features checkered teeth that allow users to achieve a solid anchor point for precise shots. Low-profile fingerstops and handstops are super popular right now, and I have to say I’m a fan. When you want a clean look yet still be totally funtional it’s the way to go. The Barricade Stop is constructed from 6061 aluminum and is hard coat anodized with a matte black finish. And like with all Midwest Industries products this barricade stop is made in the USA.
GET INFO: $26Magpul M-LOK Handstop Kit
Another great low-profile option, Magpul’s M-LOK Hand Stop Kit serves as a light weight M-LOK slot index point for improved weapon control, or as a forward stop to prevent the shooter’s hand from reaching the hot front sight assembly or muzzle. The kit includes one M-LOK Hand Stop, one M-LOK Index Panel, and one M-LOK Rail Cover for the individual user to configure their kit as they desire. Also included in this kit is an M-LOK Hand Stop MOE Adapter for use with Magpul polymer M-LOK Hand Guards as well as other wider profile rails.
GET INFO: $24Arisaka M-LOK Inline Scout Mount
The Arisaka Inline Scout Mount is designed specifically for the extremely popular SureFire M300 and SureFire M600 Scout series of weapon lights. It replaces the stock Picatinny rail adapter with a low profile mount for M-LOK rails. The mount is especially useful on handguards that feature 45 degree angle mounting flats. When used on a 45 degree angle mounting flat, the Inline Scout Mount allows the user to position the light closer or farther away from the top 12 o’clock rail to give clearance for front sights or other accessories.
GET INFO: $37Magpul M-LOK Type 2 Rail Covers
M-LOK Type 2 Rail Covers are two-piece covers that install directly onto most M-LOK aluminum hand guards. These M-LOK covers are non-orientation specific which allows users to mount them in any direction without affecting function and only protrude slightly more than 1/8″ from the mounting surface to maintain a low-profile. They feature beveled contours to minimize potential snagging and utilize Magpul’s TSP texture for additional grip. The center locking tab is pre-scored to allow the user to snap off sections and mix and match colors for a custom look.
GET INFO: $13Magpul M-LOK MVG Vertical Grip
The M-LOK MVG is a light-weight vertical foregrip that attaches directly to M-LOK compatible hand guards and with no additional Picatinny rails required. Made from the same high-quality polymer as other Magpul products, the M-LOK MVG uses the new Magpul TSP texture for positive control in all environments. With rounded contours and a shorter length, it has been optimized for use with the “thumb break method” of shooting and can also be used as a traditional vertical foregrip.
GET INFO: $19Magpul M-LOK Cantilever Rail/Light Mount
The M-LOK Aluminum Cantilever Rail/Light Mount allows the attachment of various picatinny spec rail-mounted accessories such as lights and optics, and directly interfaces with the popular SureFire M300 and SureFire M600 Scout series lights or Magpul Light Mount V-Block and Rings. The Cantilever Rail/Light Mount has picatinny slots that extend forward .75″-1.5″ past the M-LOK mounting slot to improve ergonomics and optimize accessory positioning in a wide variety of uses, while keeping lights and accessories low to reduce the weapon’s profile.
GET INFO: $34Odin Works M-LOK Flashlight Mount
Odin Works Flashlight Mount is designed to mount any 1″ diameter light to any M-LOK rail system. It’s unique, low-profile design allows light placement at the 1, 5, 7, or 11 o’clock positions so it’s out of the way yet easily accessible when you need it. The Flashlight Mount is machined from billet aluminium and only weighs about an ounce. They also include all the hardware and tools you’ll need to install this awesome piece.
GET INFO: $40What Else?
Did you find the M-LOK rail accessory you were looking for? If not keep your eyes peeled. The M-LOK mounting standard is still a rather recent arrival and new parts are being introduced regularly.
Are there other awesome M-LOK rail accessories you like? Tell us about it in the comments!