VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

brand692

brand692

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Oct 22, 2009
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Western NE
#1
For the M1A gurus,

I've just recently started my addiction to the M1A. I'm working on getting optics mounted to my M1A. Have a Smith and, as much as I hate to say it, an ARMS 18 mount for my rifle. To be completely honest, neither of them really do it for me, so I'm considering a VLTOR rail cluster.

I am specifically considering the one that goes into the dovetail on the receiver AND bolts to the side. I do not want the short version that simply bolts to the side. This one, specifically, is what I'm considering:
M1A_toprail2-web-lg.jpg


I have a few questions:
First, will it work with a MCM M3A Stock?
Second, will I actually gain a more stable base for mounting my optics?
Third, from the pictures I've seen, there seems to be two styles, one that is just a handguard, and one that goes all the way around the forend of the rifle to include going over the stock. Is there a benefit to one and not the other?
Fourth, can someone post a pic of it set up on their rifle?

Before everyone says "GET A SAGE," I will let you know I can't. CA says that if I do, will more than likely go on a shooting rampage because of the pistol grip. Also, to be completely honest, I really like the M3A and have no reason to replace it.
 
#3
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

Are you looking to put red dot on it or a traditional scope? I don't know much about the VLTOR rail but by the pics, it should fit the M3A stock without issue. The only thing I can see that might have a fitment issue is where the bracket mounts on the left side of the receiver. The M3A stock has a narrow forend just like the GI stock and the top area where the GI handguard is, is normal GI height as well. If going the red dout route, the Ultimak and Amega Ranges handguard rail systems work fine on all the McM M1A/M14 stocks.

Check here and scroll down for the Ultimak rail with Aimpoint pics:
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...932#Post1652932
 
#5
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

I'm specifically looking to mount a traditional scope to it, exactly how the picture above is mounted. I don't have a problem dedicating the side mount to the rail system, as long as the rail goes all the way back to the dovetail.

I can't seem to find a place to order one. VLTOR says that they make them for SA, and SA has sole rights to it. However, after looking at the SA website, I can't find it.

There is one on GB right now, but it is the type that wraps all the way around the stock, which is not my goal. I'd love to have the setup EXACTLY as shown above with the exception of the stock. I already have a M3A. I like the one that replaces the handguard, bolts into the side mount, and the dovetail. It seems that it would be the most solid mount.
 
#6
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Wardog15</div><div class="ubbcode-body">YOu could go with a Troy industries stock which almost gives you a monolithic rail platform. More expensive than Vltor though. </div></div>

No I can't. Its a pistol grip. Illegal in this great state. Same reason I can't put it in a SAGE EBR. Plus I already invested 700 bones in a MCM M3A, which I really like.

I heard at one point that Troy was making a rail handguard that bolted into the dovetail, but I cannot seem to locate one.
 
#7
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

Disregard. I found the Troy Rail. Its called "The Battle Rail." It looks like it may work too, and comes in at 300 bucks. Anyone have one of them and can provide feedback?
 
#8
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

Anyone have any experience with either the VLTOR or the Troy rail setups? I basically just want to know if they are a better optic mounting platform than the side saddle Sadlak's, Smith's, and ARMS mounts.
 
#10
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

The cluster rail is made by Vltor for Springfield Armory Inc(SAI). They are only sold by SAI. They are not listed on their website but if you call SAI costumer service you can buy one direct from SAI. The one that extends over the receiver is the Extended Cluster Rail. I think it retails between $400 to $500. The standard Cluster Rail retails for about $300 to $400. You may want to look on some online ocutions or ee on different forums for them. I have seen used standard cluster rails as low as $100 and Extended ones for $250. You can mount a scope on both. The standard would need a Larue LT-608 scope mount which is for the Sage EBR but will work on the cluster rail set up. Larue has them but not on their website. hope this helps
 
#11
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

The Troy top rail may also work for you but it sits up higher than the vltor set up which may give you a cheek weld problem. Also the Troy set up requires you to remove your rear site assembly from your rifle. Some guys like this and put AR style BUIS on the troy top rail.
 
#12
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

Also both Vltor setups wrap around the stock. The top rail is permently attached and the wrap around section has a quick detach latch on each side.
 
#13
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

ebam1a

Thanks. That is EXACTLY all the info I'm looking for. I didn't realize you could use the LT-608 with the standard length rail, good info.

Thanks,
Ben
 
#14
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

I have not used the LT 608 on a vltor standard set up my self but i have seen it done. It is a nice way to go. You can take your scope off of your rifle to use your irons and put it back on without loosing zero.
 
#15
Re: VLTOR M1A Handguard/Rail Cluster Questions

Have you looked at the KAC rail or maybe a Striker-14 M-14/M1A Tactical Rail System. The striker is going to be a little harder to get no longer in business. But for the right price i might happen to be able to get one for you let me know?
21stCenturyM1A_01_sized.jpg
 
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