First Thoughts on the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 promise a comfortable and heat-resistant grip for your M-Lok handguard. As someone who spends a lot of time at the range, I’m always looking for ways to improve comfort and mitigate heat transfer.
My hands have definitely felt the burn after sustained rapid fire. I was seeking a cost-effective solution to improve grip and insulate my handguard without breaking the bank, so I opted for the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 and the tan color matches my existing rifle furniture.
Upon receiving the package, I immediately noticed how small each individual cover was. The rubber material feels reasonably durable, but definitely on the thinner side. Compared to Magpul M-Lok Rail Covers Type 2, which offer a larger surface area and a more aggressive texture, the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 seemed almost petite. I also considered Ergo M-Lok Rail Covers, but they were significantly more expensive.
My initial reaction was a mix of curiosity and slight disappointment; I had envisioned a larger, more substantial cover. However, the low price point and promise of heat resistance piqued my interest. Time to see if these little guys could deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 at an outdoor shooting range on a sunny, moderately warm day. I installed them on my AR-15’s M-Lok handguard, focusing on the areas where my support hand typically rests.
Installation was incredibly easy; the hinged design snapped securely into the M-Lok slots. The covers provided a slight improvement in grip, adding a subtle layer of texture. After a few rapid-fire drills, I noticed a marginal reduction in heat transfer compared to the uncovered portions of the handguard. However, it wasn’t a drastic difference.
Initially, I was concerned about the covers shifting or coming loose, but they stayed firmly in place throughout my range session. No issues arose during the first use, aside from questioning the overall coverage area.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a few hundred rounds downrange, the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 have held up reasonably well. The rubber material shows minimal signs of wear, with no cracking or deformation.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or residue. However, I did notice some slight fading of the tan color in areas exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. While the heat resistance is noticeable, it’s not substantial enough for extended full-auto fire; it’s better suited for mitigating heat during moderate semi-auto shooting.
Comparing my experience to using bare M-Lok slots, the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 definitely offer a comfort upgrade. I would say it outperforms bare slots, but it falls short of the grip and heat insulation provided by higher-end rail covers.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18
Specifications
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 are designed to fit standard M-Lok slots on handguards. Each cover measures approximately 0.8 inches in length.
Each cover adds a minimal 0.15 inches of height above the M-Lok handguard surface, keeping a low profile. The package includes 18 individual covers and they are molded from a rubber material, offering some heat resistance and improved grip. They are only available in tan.
These specifications impact performance by offering minimal bulk while providing some heat insulation and improved grip. The small size means more covers are needed for full coverage, and the rubber material offers moderate, but not extreme, heat resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 perform their intended function adequately. They do provide a slightly more comfortable and grippy surface compared to bare M-Lok slots.
Their primary strength lies in their ease of installation and low profile, and the weakness is the limited coverage and moderate heat resistance. I’d rate them as meeting the basic expectations for a budget-friendly M-Lok cover, without exceeding them.
Design & Ergonomics
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 feature a simple, hinged design for easy installation. The rubber material is lightweight and adds minimal bulk to the handguard.
The subtle texturing provides a decent grip, although it could be more aggressive. The hinged design makes them very user-friendly; even a novice can install them in seconds.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The rubber material seems resilient to normal wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal; wiping them down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For heavily soiled covers, mild soap and water can be used.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 do not come with any additional accessories. These covers are primarily intended as a standalone grip and heat insulation solution.
The compatibility lies solely with standard M-Lok handguards. They do not interface with any other accessories directly.
Pros and Cons of NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18
Pros
- Easy to install and remove with the hinged design.
- Provides a slight improvement in grip and comfort.
- Offers some heat insulation for moderate semi-auto fire.
- Very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Low profile design adds minimal bulk to the handguard.
Cons
- Small size requires multiple packs for full coverage.
- Limited heat resistance compared to higher-end rail covers.
- Grip texture could be more aggressive for enhanced control.
Who Should Buy NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18?
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 are perfect for casual shooters and budget-conscious individuals. They benefit those seeking a simple, inexpensive way to improve the grip and comfort of their M-Lok handguard.
Someone needing serious heat protection for high volume shooting should probably skip this product. Must-have accessories include more packs of the covers for sufficient rail coverage based on user preference.
Conclusion on NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18
The NcStar VISM M-Lok Covers Tan, Per 18 offer a budget-friendly solution for improving the grip and comfort of your M-Lok handguard. While they’re not the most robust or heat-resistant option on the market, they perform their intended function adequately.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. I would recommend them to anyone looking for an inexpensive and easy-to-install M-Lok cover solution.
For the casual shooter, this is a great deal. Buy a few packs and enjoy a more comfortable shooting experience.