I purchased an upper reciver some time ago thinking I would build it some day. But then decided it was far easier to just buy a complete upper. But of course this thing just sitting in the safe wasn’t going to work! So now I have a CHF DD mid length barrel, no front sight, that I am working with. The one thing I can’t decide on, and would like some input on, is a rail. I am going with the DD gas block so I can install about any rail length I want. Any suggestions? 9", 10", 12"? I have a couple of Omegas and really like them but with no front sight I can use anything I want, but I’m just not sure. Help!
your needs are gonna dictate rail length… without knowing any of your needs, it’s impossible to make an intelligent suggestion…
VFG, light and probably sling attachment is about it. And a front sight, can’t forget that. I don’t hang that much stuff on one, but I also like the look and the utility of a good rail.
If you get a low pro gas block you probably want a rail long enough to cover said gas block. On a mid length a 10" rail should just cover the gas block (depending on the length of the GB it might stick out a hair). An 11" or 12" would completely cover it no matter the length. If you get a traditional FSB you would need a 9" rail.
A 10" rail would be plenty long enough for most people even with a forward grip, and still gives a pretty long sight radius for your irons. I have a 12" rail on my 16" mid length, and aside from the front BUIS the last 2" of rail doesn’t even get used. I still have a LaRue FUG and Surefire Scout light on it.
The longer rail can be a benefit if you shoot off supports as it gives you more room to rest the rail on the support instead of the barrel resting on there which can throw off your POI. If you shoot with a very far forward grip (like Travis Haley from Magpul for instance) the longer rail can give you a bit more freedom to setup your weapon without things becoming cramped, in the way, etc.
10" is what I was thinking, just to cover the block. I have seen 11" rails and thought that might be the right length, but I think 10 is it. Just need to figure out which one before I start to put it together, so i will have the right barrel nut on hand.
A 10 inch rail will leave about 1/4" of the gas block exposed or more depending on the type of low profile gas block you get. I prefer 11" or 12" rails to fully protect the gas block if I don’t get them pinned.