An Easy Guide To Steel Picatinny Rails: Advantages And Considerations
Introduction: Understanding Steel Picatinny Rails
Steel Picatinny rails hold a significant place in the realm of firearm accessories. Understanding their advantages and considerations aids in making informed decisions about optimal rail selections. All OuterImpact Picatinny Rails meet NATO and Mil-Spec 1913 specifications. Our rails are precision machined from billet aluminum and must meet our strict quality control specifications. We prefer aluminum to steel due to the much lower cost to the end consumer, but there are performance applications that require steel rails.
1. Advantages of Steel Picatinny Rails
Rugged Durability
Steel Picatinny rails are renowned for their robustness, capable of withstanding heavy loads, impacts, and prolonged use without significant wear or deformation, ensuring long-term durability.
Excellent Weight-Bearing Capacity
With their inherent strength, steel rails exhibit remarkable weight-bearing capacity, making them ideal for supporting heavy accessories or optics without compromising stability.
Minimal Wear and Tear
Compared to some other materials, steel Picatinny rails show minimal wear and tear even under intense use, providing a reliable platform for accessories over extended periods.
2. Considerations and Limitations
Weight and Bulk
One of the primary considerations with steel rails is their weight. Steel, being heavier than alternative materials like aluminum, might add noticeable weight and bulk to the firearm.
Potential Corrosion
Without proper maintenance, steel rails can be susceptible to corrosion, especially in humid or harsh environmental conditions, necessitating regular care to prevent deterioration.
Cost and Price Point
Steel rails often come at a higher price point compared to rails made from other materials, impacting the overall cost of firearm customization.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Steel rails offer unparalleled durability, exceptional weight-bearing capacity, and resistance to wear. However, considerations about weight, potential corrosion, and higher cost need to be evaluated against their advantages when selecting rails for specific applications. The precision machined Picatinny Rails from OuterImpact provide a consistent level of quality and will work as Picatinny Rails, Weaver Rails and NATO Mil-Spec Rails, covering everything you need.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pros and cons associated with steel Picatinny rails. By evaluating these aspects, firearm enthusiasts can make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs and preferences when selecting rails for their firearms.