Are railed forearms obsolete?

[FlyingPen]

The more I think about it, the more it seems standard free floating rails from LaRue, Daniel Defense, etc are kind of pointless when we have systems like the PRI free float tube, Viking VTAC tube, and the VLTOR CASV systems.

Pros of Tube systems:

A. Position accessories in 45' angles (mini red dots, buis, lights, etc)
B. Much more flexibility in accessory placement
C. Lighter weight as you only have to attach rails you're going to use
D. Slimmer profile and a nicer more ergonomic grip if not using a vertical grip
E. Half the cost of a quality a DD or LaRue rail in the case of the Viking Vtac

Pros of Monolothic type rails (CASV, POF Predator, etc)

A. Position accessories in 45' angles (mini red dots, buis, lights, etc)
B. Much more flexibility in accessory placement
C. Monolithic upper rail to give you maximum flexibility in placing optics as far forward as you like
D. Very simple and trivial install with no tools


I don't see how then why anyone would buy a standard free float rail system anymore except possibly maybe for looks? Even in that regard, it's a pretty trite look as it's become even more common place than the old plastic handguards.

[brokestudent12]

DD lite weighs less than VTAC and PRI

[mattmcg]

DD lite weighs less than VTAC and PRI

I used to think the same thing but when you look at a DD lite rail with the necessary rail protectors to make it a grippable surface (sorry the rail teeth are just unusable in raw form), the weight advantage actually goes to the JP! You really need to look at the "all-in" weight when you're putting together a usable setup.

I now enjoy a number of JP VTACs (even on a .308 build) along with a DD lite for picatinny nirvana....

[SunriseF150]

Yes they are. Please send me all your FF railed forearms promptly I will dispose of them for you.

[50 Freak]

Of course not, where would I hang all my flashlights, laser, bipods and kitchen sink off of?????

[maxicon]

Yep, I'm not that happy with railed forearms in general. I just don't have that much stuff to hang on them, and between the weight, bulk, poor ergo, and need for rail covers, they just seem silly on a civilian rifle.

I'm wrestling with coughing up the cash for a VTAC for my Armalite 20". It would make a lot of sense, but I'm trying to hold down my BRD spending. Maybe it's time to sell something .