Let’s Dive into FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail
The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail offers a solution for mounting accessories onto the iconic P90 and its civilian counterpart, the PS90. Produced by FN America, this rail aims to provide a secure and reliable platform for lights, lasers, and other essential tactical gear. These rails promise to enhance the versatility of a platform known for its unique design and close-quarters capabilities.
I’ve always appreciated the P90’s bullpup design and ambidextrous controls, but its limited accessory mounting options have been a consistent frustration. Needing to mount a dedicated weapon light and aiming laser for low-light operations was my primary reason for seeking a side rail solution. The goal was to improve its effectiveness in dynamic shooting scenarios, especially those encountered during force-on-force training.
Upon unboxing, the FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail appears well-machined and robust. The matte black finish matches the aesthetics of the PS90, creating a cohesive look. The included hardware gives confidence that the rail would be securely fastened to the weapon.
Compared to aftermarket rails I’ve seen from CMMG and other manufacturers, the FN America rail seems more streamlined, closely following the P90’s original design. While the CMMG option boasts extended length, the FN America seemed more focused on a lower profile. Some nylon options exist, but their durability was questionable for serious use.
My initial impression was positive. The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail felt like a quality addition that promised to enhance the PS90’s functionality without compromising its ergonomics or aesthetics. I was excited to get it mounted and put it through its paces on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved mounting the FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail onto my PS90 SBR and heading to an outdoor shooting range. The primary accessories I used were a Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount HL-X weapon light and a Holosun LS321G IR laser/illuminator. This setup aimed to replicate a realistic low-light engagement configuration.
The rail performed admirably under dry conditions, holding both the light and laser securely in place throughout several hundred rounds of 5.7x28mm ammunition. There was no noticeable shift in point of aim or loosening of the rail. Mounting was simple and straightforward.
I found the rail easy to adapt to. It added minimal bulk to the PS90, and the accessory placement felt natural and intuitive. After zeroing the laser, the setup proved quite effective for rapid target acquisition in varying light conditions.
The only issue encountered after the first use was minor loosening of the mounting screws, easily remedied with a dab of thread locker upon reinstallation. Other than that, it held up with out fail.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail has proven to be a reliable addition to my PS90. It has seen action in multiple range sessions, low-light training exercises, and even a defensive carbine course.
The rail exhibits minimal signs of wear and tear, the anodized finish holding up well against scuffs and scratches. The mounting hardware remains secure, and the rail itself shows no signs of deformation or loosening. Minimal and basic maintenance is required, such as cleaning the carbon build up.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is typically all that’s needed to remove carbon fouling and maintain its appearance. The rail’s robust construction surpasses my expectations, particularly when compared to cheaper, polymer alternatives I’ve encountered.
Compared to previous experiences with poorly designed aftermarket rails that would loosen or shift under recoil, the FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail has been a significant improvement. Its rock-solid mounting and durability have inspired confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of practical use. It enhances my ability to trust my platform.
Breaking Down the Features of FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail
Specifications
The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail is specifically designed for compatibility with the FN America P90 and PS90 firearms. The rail is constructed from lightweight yet durable aluminum, ensuring a solid mounting platform without adding excessive weight to the weapon. The black anodized finish provides corrosion resistance and blends seamlessly with the PS90’s aesthetics.
The rail itself features a standard Picatinny rail section, allowing for the attachment of various accessories such as lights, lasers, and vertical grips. Its compact design ensures minimal interference with the weapon’s ergonomics. The rail includes all necessary mounting hardware for easy installation.
These specifications are vital for optimal performance. The aluminum construction ensures durability and prevents the rail from bending or breaking under stress. The Picatinny rail section enables users to easily attach and detach accessories as needed, providing versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail performs its intended function admirably. It provides a secure and stable mounting platform for accessories, enabling users to customize their PS90 to meet their specific needs. The rail’s low profile ensures that it doesn’t interfere with the weapon’s handling or sight picture.
The primary strength of this rail is its robust construction. Its reliable mounting design ensures that accessories remain securely in place, even under heavy recoil. A potential weakness could be the limited length of the rail, which might restrict the number of accessories that can be mounted simultaneously.
This product meets and exceeds expectations. Its simplicity, durability, and secure mounting capabilities make it a valuable addition to any PS90 owner’s kit. It eliminates issues experienced with cheaper alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail boasts a minimalist design that complements the PS90’s unique aesthetics. The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a flawless anodized finish. The weight is negligible, ensuring that the rail doesn’t significantly alter the weapon’s balance.
The rail is incredibly user-friendly. The simple mounting process requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills. There is practically no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail is built to last. Its durable aluminum construction and corrosion-resistant finish ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care, this rail should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the rail is simple. Regular cleaning with a solvent and light oil is sufficient to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail provides users with a standard Picatinny rail section for attaching a wide variety of accessories. This includes weapon lights, lasers, vertical grips, and even small red dot sights. The rail is compatible with most commonly available Picatinny-mounted accessories, providing a high degree of customization.
While the FN America rail doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the mounting hardware, the options for customization are nearly limitless. Users can tailor their PS90 to their specific needs, whether it’s for tactical applications, target shooting, or home defense.
Pros and Cons of FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail
Pros
- Solid and Secure Mounting: Provides a rock-solid platform for accessories, ensuring they stay in place during use.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality aluminum with a corrosion-resistant finish, built to withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Easy Installation: Simple mounting process that requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Low Profile Design: Adds minimal bulk to the PS90, preserving its ergonomics and handling characteristics.
- Enhanced Versatility: Allows users to mount essential accessories such as lights and lasers, increasing the PS90’s effectiveness in various scenarios.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive compared to some aftermarket alternatives.
- Limited Rail Length: The shorter rail length may restrict the number of accessories that can be mounted simultaneously.
Who Should Buy FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail?
This FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail is perfect for PS90 owners looking to enhance their weapon’s versatility with reliable accessory mounting capabilities. It is particularly well-suited for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and home defense enthusiasts who require a secure platform for lights, lasers, and other essential gear. It is also ideal for those who prefer FN America quality.
Those on a very tight budget might consider cheaper, albeit potentially less durable, alternatives. Shooters who require extremely long accessory rails should also explore extended aftermarket options.
A must-have accessory for this rail is a high-quality weapon light, such as a Streamlight ProTac or SureFire Scout Light. A visible or IR laser aiming device can also greatly enhance the PS90’s capabilities in low-light conditions.
Conclusion on FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail
In summary, the FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail is a well-designed and robust accessory that significantly enhances the functionality of the PS90. Its solid mounting capabilities, durable construction, and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment for any serious PS90 owner. This rail improves the weapon’s capabilities.
While the price may be slightly higher than some aftermarket options, the quality and reliability justify the cost. The rail provides an enhanced level of confidence in the accessory’s function.
I wholeheartedly recommend the FN America P90-PS90 Barrel Side Rail to anyone looking to improve their PS90’s versatility and performance. Upgrade your PS90 today and experience the difference a quality rail can make!