NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length Review

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length Made a Bold First Impression

After a decade plus in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve handled countless AR-15 accessories. When I first saw the NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length, I was intrigued by the promise of an affordable and easy-to-install Keymod handguard. It seemed like the perfect solution for breathing new life into an older AR build without breaking the bank.

My goal was simple: to replace the basic polymer handguards on my trusted, but somewhat dated, mid-length AR-15 with something more versatile. I wanted a platform that would allow me to easily mount lights, lasers, and foregrips without the bulk of a quad rail. The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length presented itself as a budget-friendly way to achieve this enhanced functionality.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the lightweight aluminum construction. The black anodized finish appeared durable enough for my needs. The handguard felt solid and well-made, especially considering the price point.

I considered a few other options, like the Magpul MOE SL Handguard and some pricier free-float Keymod rails from Midwest Industries. However, the NcStar offering’s drop-in installation and included Picatinny rail sections swayed my decision. I wanted a quick and easy upgrade.

My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential for improved ergonomics and accessory mounting, but skeptical about the long-term durability of a more budget-conscious product. Could NcStar deliver a reliable Keymod rail system at such an accessible price? Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to assess the NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length’s impact on handling and accuracy under controlled conditions. I installed the handguard in under 10 minutes using only a screwdriver.

The weather was sunny and warm, perfect for a range day. The handguard felt comfortable in my hand, offering a noticeable improvement over the original plastic. The slimmer profile allowed for a more positive grip. After mounting a vertical foregrip and a weapon light, I put several magazines through my AR. The NcStar rail system remained secure and stable throughout, with no noticeable shifting or loosening.

The only minor issue I encountered was that the included Picatinny rail sections required a bit of effort to align perfectly within the Keymod slots. I ended up slightly loosening the Keymod screws to allow for small adjustments and then tightened them back down.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length has held up surprisingly well. I’ve taken it on a few weekend camping trips and used it extensively during range sessions.

The black anodized finish shows some minor scratches from rubbing against gear, but the aluminum itself remains structurally sound. I have noticed that after extended periods of rapid fire, the handguard can get quite hot, requiring the use of gloves. Regular cleaning with a solvent and light oil keeps the NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length looking and functioning its best.

Compared to my previous experiences with basic polymer handguards, the NcStar system offers a significant upgrade in terms of versatility and grip. It hasn’t matched the performance or heat dissipation of some of the higher-end free-float rails I’ve used, but it’s also a fraction of the cost.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length

Specifications

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length is designed as a drop-in replacement handguard for AR-15/M4 platforms with mid-length gas systems. It boasts several noteworthy specifications:

• It’s constructed from black anodized aluminum. This provides a good balance of strength and weight.
• Its length is 8.5 inches. This is a standard mid-length size.
• The weight is 7.3 oz., or 9.3 oz. with both accessory rails attached. This makes it a lightweight addition to your rifle.
• It includes two accessory KeyMod to Picatinny rail sections. One short and one medium.
• It’s designed to fit AR15/M4s with a MIL-SPEC barrel nut, Delta Ring, and front Handguard Cap. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of rifles.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the rail system’s performance and usability. The aluminum construction ensures durability, while the Keymod slots allow for easy attachment of accessories. The drop-in design allows for a quick and easy upgrade.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length performs its job admirably, providing a solid and versatile platform for mounting accessories.

• It offers seven angles of Keymod slots. This offers ample customization options.
• The top rail aligns with the receiver height. This creates a seamless mounting surface for optics and other accessories.
• While it’s not a free-float design, it provides a stable and secure platform for accessories. This is suitable for most recreational and tactical applications.

The main strength is its ease of installation and the immediate increase in accessory mounting options. The primary weakness is heat dissipation during extended firing sessions. It can get hot enough to require gloves. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly Keymod rail system.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length features a functional and ergonomic design.

• The aluminum construction feels solid and well-made. This provides a reassuring sense of quality.
• The slimmer profile offers a comfortable and secure grip. This is an improvement over standard polymer handguards.
• The black anodized finish provides a sleek and tactical look. This enhances the overall appearance of the rifle.

There’s a slight learning curve involved in properly aligning the Picatinny rail sections within the Keymod slots. Once that’s mastered, accessory mounting is a breeze.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length is reasonably durable for its price point.

• The aluminum construction can withstand moderate use and abuse. This makes it suitable for recreational shooting and light tactical applications.
• The black anodized finish is prone to scratching, but it does provide some protection against corrosion. This helps to extend the lifespan of the rail system.
• Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. This minimizes the effort required to keep it in good condition.

With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length offers a wide range of customization options.

• It comes with two KeyMod to Picatinny rail sections. These provide immediate mounting options for a variety of accessories.
• It’s compatible with most standard Keymod accessories, including vertical grips, weapon lights, and lasers. This allows for a high degree of personalization.
• You can add additional Keymod rail sections as needed. This allows for greater customization to your own particular setup.

The included Picatinny rail sections are a nice bonus, offering immediate versatility without requiring additional purchases.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length

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Who Should Buy NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length?

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length is perfect for:

• Budget-conscious AR-15 owners looking to upgrade from standard polymer handguards.
• Hobbyist shooters who want to add versatility to their rifle without spending a fortune.
• Those seeking a simple, drop-in Keymod solution without requiring advanced gunsmithing skills.

Who should skip this product?

• Serious tactical users or competitive shooters who demand maximum durability and heat dissipation.
• Those willing to invest in higher-end free-float rail systems for superior performance.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A quality vertical foregrip or angled foregrip for enhanced control.
• A weapon light for improved target identification in low-light conditions.
• Keymod rail covers to improve grip and protect your hands from heat.

Conclusion on NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length

The NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length is a surprisingly capable and affordable upgrade for any AR-15 owner looking to enhance the functionality and ergonomics of their rifle.

The value proposition is excellent. The price is justified given its performance and ease of installation.

I would personally recommend it to anyone on a budget who wants to dip their toes into the world of Keymod accessories.

For the price, the NcStar Keymod Rail System Mid Length delivers solid performance, ease of use, and a noticeable improvement over standard handguards. It’s a great way to modernize your AR-15 without emptying your wallet. Upgrade your AR today!

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