Weapon Mounts: Picatinny, M-LOK and KeyMod compared
Gun mounts are essential for mounting accessories on firearms. The three most common systems are Picatinny, M-LOK and KeyMod. But what exactly are the differences? In this article we compare these popular mounting systems and help you make the right choice for your setup.
Picatinny rail: the proven standard
The Picatinny rail, also known as MIL-STD-1913 rail or Tactical rail, has been the industry standard for weapon mountings for decades. A few features:
- Robust and reliable design
- Universally compatible with many accessories
- Relatively heavy and takes up more space
- Provides excellent stability for heavy optics
The FAB Defense Picatinny rail is a popular choice due to its durability and versatility. This rail provides a solid platform for mounting scopes, red dots and other accessories.
M-LOK: lightweight and modular
M-LOK (Modular Lock) is a newer system developed by Magpul Industries. Benefits are:
- Very lightweight
- Slimmer profile for better ergonomics
- Direct mounting without additional rail
- Growing selection of compatible accessories
Brands like Vortex are offering more and more M-LOK compatible mounts. For example, the Vortex Viper mounting rings are available in an M-LOK version for modern rifles.
KeyMod: the quick solution
KeyMod is an open source mounting system with the following features:
- Quick and easy assembly/disassembly
- Lightweight design
- Less popular than M-LOK in recent years
- Still supported by various manufacturers
Although less widespread, brands like Clawgear still offer KeyMod options for specific weapons and applications.
Which system to choose?
The choice depends on your specific needs:
Picatinny for maximum compatibility and heavy duty optics
M-LOK for lightweight and modern setups
KeyMod if you already have accessories in this system
Also consider what accessories you want to use. For example, some optics such as the Sightmark series are primarily designed for Picatinny rails.
Conclusion: make a well-considered choice
Choosing the right mounting system is crucial for your weapon configuration. Consider your specific needs, budget and future expansion plans. Do you want personal advice? Please contact our experts. We are happy to help you put together the perfect setup for your weapon!