I recently purchased a BCM 14.5" upper equipped with a DD 12" Lite Rail (just tried it out and I love it). The various rails that are in use now were just coming in when I EAS’d so I really don’t have any experience with them. What do you all do as far as maintenance of the rail itself and barrel under it, like after shooting in the rain for example? Is it necessary to take the rail off? I really don’t have a baseline for proper maintenance with a rail equipped rifle.
That is kind if a problem especially in areas where rain or rust are a concern. There are some long type brushes with wire handles that would be long enough that you could spray the area under then rail and then scrub it with the brush.
For the most part assuming that you have good kit and the finish is present you should be good to go. This is one reason why I am fan of painted weapons. When done properly it will provide an extra layer of protection to your weapon.
Thats why I like removeable bottom rails.
If you’re in a humid area rust can form. Dry I wouldn’t worry too much.
I keep a thin rag in a bag that has oil on it, and if you do something similar you can try a long screw driver or such to push the edge of the rag in from the front. Or put a few drops on q tips, and go at it from the holes along the rail. Don’t have to coat every square inch as the oil will naturally spread out.
I live in Central TX and have had SS barrels get very light rust under a LaRue hand guard. Ive generally stuck to rails since then that the bottom is removable.
Compressed air if it gets wet. I’ve never had any rust or maintenance issues with something like that.
I’m in the Desert though… so it’s usually just sand and dust in there.
Shit, was I supposed to clean in there!! :eek:
I have five ARs with DD Lite rails, and I have never done much more than spray oil in there.
What do you all do as far as maintenance of the rail itself and barrel under it, like after shooting in the rain for example?
If you can’t get to compressed air, a warm/dry location or other method of drying, WD40 can be used to hose it down. While not a great lube, it is designed to displace water and prevent rust.
Thank you very much gents. That’s about what I figured, but I knew I’d get confirmation here. I’m still learning to live with not IG inspection clean after every range trip, but I can’t handle rust.
IMHO future rail development needs to give the user access to the exterior of the barrel. This is more important than having every ounce of weight savings.
One piece tube style handguards and FF railed handguards need to go away.
KAC had this figured out with the URX but they can’t stop using the integral flip up sight.
This is why I like the RIS II so much.
my Centurion FF comes apart with 4 screws that clamp the two halves onto the barrel nut and two more to hold the front together. it is very sturdy and light.
so far I have been a DD fan, don’t own Larue, and currently have a couple Troys. from now on, I don’t see me buying anything except Centurion…