The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black Made a Bold First Impression
The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black isn’t going to win any beauty contests, but it promises to deliver essential functionality at a price that’s hard to ignore. As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless handguard rails, ranging from sleek, high-end models to more budget-friendly options. This offering from NcStar definitely falls into the latter category, but sometimes, simple and affordable is all you need.
I was looking to add a small section of Picatinny rail to a budget AR build for mounting a flashlight. Several builds ago I found myself in a situation where a light would have helped me identify what I was hearing in the dark, so I have been adding a light to my go-to builds. The cost-effectiveness of this product combined with the NcStar name sold me on this item.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was its weight – or rather, the lack thereof. At just 1.7 ounces, it’s practically featherlight. The black anodized aluminum construction appears solid enough, though the finish isn’t as refined as some higher-priced rails. It comes with two mounting screws, flanged nuts, and an Allen wrench, which is a welcome inclusion.
Compared to Magpul’s MOE rails or even some of the off-brand aluminum rails on Amazon, the NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black lacks a certain level of finesse in the finish. However, its simplicity and price point made it a very good contender. Ultimately, I chose this because I have other NcStar products and I have had good experiences with them.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It’s not flashy, but it seems functional. The proof, as always, would be in the testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black at an outdoor shooting range during a sunny afternoon. Installation was straightforward. The included screws and nuts made securing it to the polymer handguard of my AR-15 relatively easy. I mounted a Streamlight Protac Rail Mount 2 to the rail.
The rail performed its primary function flawlessly. The flashlight remained securely mounted throughout my range session, even with repeated firing of .223 rounds. No noticeable shifting or loosening of the rail or flashlight.
The only slight inconvenience was the Allen wrench. It felt a little cheap and I was slightly concerned about stripping the screw heads if I tightened them down too much.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a few months, the NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of cracks or bending. The black anodized finish shows some minor scratches, but nothing significant considering the price point and use.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it maintained. The rail hasn’t outperformed my expectations, but it hasn’t disappointed me either. It just…works.
Compared to some higher-end rails I’ve used that offer integrated QD sling mounts or more aggressive texturing, the NcStar rail is pretty basic. It gets the job done without any bells and whistles.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black
Specifications
- The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black features a length of 5.9 inches. This provides ample space for mounting various accessories.
- It weighs in at a light 1.7 ounces. This keeps the overall weight of your AR-15 down.
- Constructed from black anodized aluminum. This provides a durable and corrosion-resistant finish.
- Designed with Picatinny/MIL-STD 1913 rails. These rails provide universal compatibility with a wide range of accessories.
- Includes two mounting screws and flanged nuts, and an Allen wrench. These provide everything you need for installation.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the usability and performance of the rail. The length dictates what accessories can be mounted. The weight affects the balance of your rifle, and the aluminum construction ensures durability.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black performs its intended function admirably. It securely mounts accessories to the AR-15 handguard. The added mounting holes are a welcome feature for flexible placement.
Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. It does what it’s supposed to do without being overly complex or expensive. The main weakness is the lack of advanced features. It doesn’t have QD sling mounts or other integrated functionalities.
Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly rail. I can recommend this to the average user for basic needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for its price range. The aluminum feels reasonably solid, though the finish is not perfect. At 1.7 oz, it’s unnoticeable.
The rounded ends are a nice touch, making the rail more comfortable to handle and less likely to snag on clothing or gear. There’s no real learning curve. Installation is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction should last for years with proper care. The black anodized finish provides some scratch resistance, but it’s not impervious.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after use is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black is primarily designed for mounting accessories. This includes lights, lasers, foregrips, and other Picatinny-compatible items.
It is compatible with any standard Picatinny accessory, regardless of brand. This ensures versatility and allows for customization based on individual preferences. It does not come with any accessories of its own outside the screws and tool needed to mount it.
Pros and Cons of NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black
Pros
- Affordable price: It’s one of the most budget-friendly options on the market.
- Lightweight design: Adds minimal weight to your AR-15.
- Easy installation: Comes with all necessary hardware and tools.
- Durable aluminum construction: Provides a solid mounting platform.
- Rounded edges: Enhances comfort and reduces snagging.
Cons
- Basic finish: The black anodized finish is not as refined as higher-end rails.
- Limited features: Lacks advanced functionalities like QD sling mounts.
Who Should Buy NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black?
The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 owners who need a simple and functional rail for mounting accessories. It is great for casual shooters, hobbyists, or anyone building a budget AR build.
This product may not be ideal for those who demand top-tier materials, advanced features, or a flawless finish. Those shooters should consider more expensive alternatives from brands like Midwest Industries or Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM).
A must-have accessory for this product would be a quality set of Torx head screws to replace the included screws, as the included allen wrench is of questionable quality.
Conclusion on NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black
The NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black is a solid, no-frills option for adding a Picatinny rail to your AR-15. It doesn’t boast fancy features or a premium finish. However, it delivers reliable performance at an unbeatable price.
For around $14, it’s hard to argue with the value proposition. It allows you to mount essential accessories without breaking the bank. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly rail that gets the job done.
If you need a basic rail for your AR-15 and don’t want to spend a fortune, give the NcStar AR15 Gen2 Handguard Rail, Black a try. You might be surprised by how much functionality you can get for such a low price.