AR-15 Picatinny Rails Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Published on March 20, 2009
Duration: 1:31

The Picatinny rail system, officially MIL-STD-1913, is a significant advancement for AR-15 platforms, evolving from the Weaver-style mount. Its multiple grooves allow for secure attachment of diverse accessories like optics, lasers, grips, and lights. The video demonstrates mounting various accessories, highlighting the versatility and customization potential of the AR-15 platform.

Quick Summary

The Picatinny rail system, officially MIL-STD-1913, is a standardized mounting platform for firearm accessories. Based on the Weaver design, it features multiple transverse grooves for secure attachment of optics, lasers, grips, and other gear, significantly enhancing AR-15 customization.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Picatinny Rails
  2. 00:19History and Naming (MIL-STD-1913)
  3. 00:30Design and Purpose (Weaver Style)
  4. 00:41Accessory Examples and Mounting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Picatinny rail system?

A Picatinny rail system, officially MIL-STD-1913, is a standardized mounting platform on firearms, based on the Weaver system. It features multiple transverse grooves allowing for secure attachment of a wide variety of accessories like sights, lasers, and grips.

What is the difference between Picatinny and Weaver rails?

While based on the Weaver design, the Picatinny (MIL-STD-1913) rail has standardized dimensions for the cross-section and groove spacing, ensuring better interchangeability and a more secure lock with accessory mounts compared to the original Weaver system.

What kind of accessories can be mounted on an AR-15 Picatinny rail?

Picatinny rails are highly versatile. You can mount optics like scopes and red dots (e.g., Trijicon ACOG), laser sighting systems, vertical foregrips, tactical flashlights, bipods, and even spare magazine holders.

Where did the Picatinny rail get its name?

The Picatinny rail system is named after the Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey, where the standard was developed. It is officially known as MIL-STD-1913 for military applications.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from MidwayUSA

View all →