Hey AR Experts,

 

I'm looking to replace my original Colt Match Target M4 handguard and want to replace it with a continuous tactical rail. I came across this one-piece Daniel Defense that requires removal of the delta ring and front sight assembly to slide the rail through the barrel.

 

https://danieldefense.com/rail-systems/ar-15-lite-rail/ar15-lite-railtm-7-0-carbine.html

 

Is this something that anyone with a little patience can do or do I need someone experienced ?

 

Any other manufacturers that I should be looking at ?

 

Thanks,

Ed

Daniel Defense, Knights Armament, and others make free float rails that do not require removal of the delta ring or FSB. I have not used them but read quite a bit about them and the Marines use the Knights rails for the M16 A4 rifle. Worth looking into.

 

Edit the Knights rails are not free floating, and are under the delta ring, but are again supposedly excellent and in use by the USMC.

The Daniel Defense Omega X rails do not require the removal of the delta ring, and function as free floating. These are also the cheaper tier of DD rails.

 

Most other FF rail systems that I can think of off the top of my head do require the removal of the delta ring. If this isn't an issue, I'd recommend KAC as well; but also Troy, PRI, MI, Larue, and YHM. I personally would love to have the PRI or Troy TRX, but I'm happy with my DD Omega 7 rails (though I must admit its overkill as I hardly use any of the real estate as I simplified my rifle a couple months back).

My best advice is keep it light. My RRA free float is on the heavy side, although probably more durable then most. DD makes good rail systems check them all out first. I wouldn't let the delta ring being a component of whether to buy or not. You can easily swap one in with the right tool, and if not a gunsmith will do it cheap.

The Daniel Defense Omega X rails do not require the removal of the delta ring, and function as free floating. These are also the cheaper tier of DD rails.

 

Most other FF rail systems that I can think of off the top of my head do require the removal of the delta ring. If this isn't an issue, I'd recommend KAC as well; but also Troy, PRI, MI, Larue, and YHM. I personally would love to have the PRI or Troy TRX, but I'm happy with my DD Omega 7 rails (though I must admit its overkill as I hardly use any of the real estate as I simplified my rifle a couple months back).

 

Was that thing easy to put on? I have MidwayUSA gift certificates from xmas and I have my eye on the Omega 7.0 carbine.

Was that thing easy to put on? I have MidwayUSA gift certificates from xmas and I have my eye on the Omega 7.0 carbine.

 

Follow this link, it has all the pictures on install.

 

http://www.weaponevolution.com/forum/showthread.php?65-Daniel-Defense-OMEGA-Rail-install-guide-and-pictorial-review

I think I'll go with the Omega 3 rails - much easier option than the 1 piece

 

Thanks for the replies

I ran a DD rail on my old M&P15... loved it.. ZERO complaints.. would recommend to others..

 

good luck with the purchase post some pics once its installed!

DD Omega is a great rail. I'd only put one of those or a KAC URX on an AR.

My best advice is keep it light.

 

I've been thinking for a while now that a light front end is important. Would I be breaking any firearm laws by putting my free float on the drill press to drill out some unnecessary weight? I dont think this modification would be considered unlawful but Im asking for opinions. Thanks.

Drilling holes in your free float wouldn't violate any laws however could compromise strength.

Yes, definitely going to have to plan it out so I dont compromise the structural integrity of the FF. Thanks.