What .308 Rail?

Cold_Bore_88

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Jul 13, 2013
705
144
The Woodlands, TX
I am currently having a 14.5" .308 "scout" AR built. I am going with a heavy barrel but want to keep the weight down as much as possible. The rifle will only be used for shots inside 600.

The builder is pushing me towards a Fortis 14" Switch but I have some apprehension due to the clamping mechanism (rotation, slip, etc.). However, this is the lightest rail out there and I cannot find any other close contenders, The MW industries rail just doesn't do it for me. The other option I have is Centurion. The Troy Alphas are just heavy. Any advice?

I like the keymod look.
 
I'm in the same boat. I'm looking for something long and something that I can fit a suppressor under.
So far I've found;

Apex
Odin Works
Samson Manufacturing
JP


If I weren't concerned about fitting a suppressor, I'd look at;
Daniel Defense
Wilson Combat
Centurion


There are a few more, but I just can't think of them.

Let me know what you decide.
 
I have a 14" Wilson Combat TRIM on my 16" Mega-Based 308 AR. I had some slippage early on, but I think that was due to [my] incorrect installation. While I think it is fixed now, I haven't run it hard and so can't say for certain.

Weight is OK, but I really like the size and feel in my hand.

I also have a Lancer CF tube on an AR 15, though they make them for DPMS-style 308s. The mounting system is a little cumbersome (its a 2 piece setup requiring red locktite), and that adds a little weight (rearward), but the CF tube itself is light. And it too feels very nice in hand...
 
I think the Switch is a great choice. You shouldnt worry about the clamping mechanism. It locks up tight and i have seen zero rotation of that particular handguard when installed correctly. It is extremely light, no one else is making anything close to the weight of the Fortis.

Other good options are the KAC URX 3.1 and AP Custom's keymod carbon fiber handguard. For those interested, the AP will allow one to cover a suppressor. The ID is 1.75"+...