Let’s Talk About Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails
The Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails offers a simple yet effective solution for adding Picatinny rail space to M-lok compatible handguards. This allows for the attachment of various accessories like lights, lasers, vertical grips, and bipods. Midwest Industries, known for their quality and durability, aims to provide a reliable and easy-to-install accessory for the AR-15 platform.
I recently found myself needing to mount a new weapon light on my AR pistol, but I didn’t want to replace my entire handguard. My existing M-lok handguard offered limited mounting options for my desired light position. I began searching for a short rail section that would allow me to attach the light exactly where I wanted it, without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
Upon receiving the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails, I was immediately impressed with its solid feel and clean finish. The black anodized aluminum looked very durable and well-machined. The included mounting hardware appeared to be of good quality.
I considered a few other options, including Magpul’s M-lok Polymer Rail Sections and some generic aluminum rail sections from other manufacturers. Ultimately, I chose the Midwest Industries rail section because of their reputation for producing high-quality, reliable AR accessories and the fact that it’s made in the USA. I also liked the 11-slot length, which seemed like a good balance between providing enough rail space and minimizing added weight.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the product looked and felt good, but the “8.6-inch length” advertised in some descriptions had me skeptical, especially after reading user reviews complaining about the misleading measurement. I was hoping it would fit my specific needs despite the confusion about its actual size.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range, where I was sighting in a new optic and wanted to get my weapon light mounted as well. The weather was mild and dry, perfect for shooting. The rail section installed easily on my M-lok handguard using the provided hardware and an Allen wrench.
Mounting the weapon light to the rail section was straightforward, and the entire setup felt very secure. After several magazines of .223, the rail section remained firmly attached, showing no signs of loosening or shifting. I immediately appreciated the added versatility the rail provided, allowing me to comfortably activate the light with my support hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable scratches or dents, despite some rough handling in and out of my gun safe and range bag. The anodized finish appears to be very durable.
The rail section has remained securely attached to my handguard, even after several hundred rounds of ammunition and numerous range trips. I’ve also taken it on a couple of overnight camping trips where it was exposed to dirt and moisture, but it has required minimal maintenance beyond a quick wipe-down. Compared to some cheaper rail sections I’ve used in the past that would loosen frequently or show signs of corrosion, the Midwest Industries rail section has been a significant improvement.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is crafted from high-quality aluminum and features a durable, mil-spec Type III hard coat anodized finish. It is designed to fit any standard M-lok compatible handguard.
The rail section features 11 Picatinny rail slots, providing ample space for mounting various accessories. Its overall length is approximately 4.625 inches (despite the misleading packaging dimension), with a width that conforms to standard Picatinny rail specifications. The package includes the necessary mounting hardware for attaching the rail section to an M-lok handguard, along with a straight shotgun rail clip. The compatibility with AR-15 style handguards ensures broad applicability, and the rail is made in the USA.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is to provide a secure and stable platform for mounting accessories to an M-lok handguard. It excels at this task. The rail section’s 11 slots offer plenty of flexibility in terms of accessory placement.
One minor drawback is the misleading length dimension often advertised. The actual rail length is considerably shorter than the stated package length, which can be frustrating if precise dimensions are critical. However, the quality of the rail section itself is excellent, and it performs its intended function flawlessly.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is simple and functional. The aluminum construction keeps the weight to a minimum, while the anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. The rail section is comfortable to handle and doesn’t add any unnecessary bulk to the handguard.
The installation process is straightforward, requiring only an Allen wrench and a few minutes of time. The anti-rotation features ensure that the rail section remains securely attached, even under heavy use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction and durable anodized finish, the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is built to last. It’s resistant to scratches, dents, and corrosion. This ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use in various environmental conditions.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a cloth is typically all that’s needed to keep the rail section clean and functioning properly. The robust construction minimizes the risk of damage or breakage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is compatible with any accessory designed to mount to a standard Picatinny rail. This includes weapon lights, lasers, vertical grips, bipods, and sling mounts. The rail section is also compatible with various M-lok handguards from different manufacturers, offering a wide range of customization options.
While the rail section doesn’t inherently offer any “customization” features, its purpose is to facilitate the attachment of other accessories, thereby enabling extensive customization of the host firearm. You can easily move or swap accessories as your needs change.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails
Pros
- High-quality aluminum construction for durability.
- Mil-spec Type III hard coat anodized finish for corrosion resistance.
- Easy installation with included hardware.
- Provides a secure and stable platform for mounting accessories.
- Made in the USA by Midwest Industries, a reputable manufacturer.
Cons
- Misleading length dimension in some product descriptions; actual rail length is shorter than advertised.
- Limited to mounting accessories that use a Picatinny rail interface; requires adapters for accessories that don’t.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails?
The Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is perfect for AR-15 owners who want to add accessories to their M-lok handguards without replacing the entire handguard. It’s also ideal for shooters who need a versatile and reliable mounting solution for weapon lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories. This rail is well-suited for tactical shooters, law enforcement personnel, and anyone who values quality and durability in their firearm accessories.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals who require a very long continuous rail section. Or those who prefer to mount accessories directly to M-lok slots without using a Picatinny rail interface.
A must-have accessory is a set of high-quality Allen wrenches to ensure proper installation and avoid stripping the screws. A thread-locking compound like Loctite can also be used to further secure the mounting hardware and prevent loosening over time.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails
Overall, the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails is a well-made and highly functional accessory for any AR-15 owner with an M-lok handguard. Despite the misleading length dimension issue, the quality, durability, and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is justified by the product’s robust construction, reliable performance, and reputation of the manufacturer. While cheaper alternatives exist, they often lack the same level of quality and durability.
I would definitely recommend the Midwest Industries Mi M-lok Rail Section 11 Slot Fits M-lok Rails to anyone looking for a dependable way to add Picatinny rail space to their M-lok handguard. Enhance your AR-15 platform with this high-quality rail section and experience the added versatility and functionality it provides!