A Look at Guntec's .308 KeyMod Rail System

The KeyMod rail system has grown in popularity because it allows the operator to have a simple, thin, lightweight handguard with zero bulk that still lets you add accessories at four positions.

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The name comes from the fact that the accessory and rail attachment holes on the handguards are in the shape of a keyhole. A large ring section on the back of the rail goes into the large opening and then slides back under the narrow portion and is locked down with an Allen wrench.

Some accessory manufacturers are also making lights, lasers bipods, sling swivels, etc., with the KeyMod system built in so there is no need for rails at all.

I have used KeyMod rails quite a bit and found them to be extremely sturdy. These are designed as a metal-on-metal fit and will not move or come loose under recoil or harsh conditions.

Guntec USA is offering its own Ultra-Lightweight Thin KeyMod Free-Floating Handguards with monolithic top rails for .308 Winchester/7.62mm NATO ARs. These can make for a welcome upgrade and are available in 12- and 15-inch lengths in black, OD green and Flat Dark Earth colors.

They will fit any standard DPMS Gen I-pattern .308/7.62mm AR and are extremely durable, made from 6061-T6 aluminum right here in the U.S.

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A proprietary steel barrel nut secures the rail to the receiver with six screws and provides a very tight handguard-to-receiver fit, making the top rail monolithic.

The total weight of the 12-inch unit is 11.7 ounces, including the steel barrel nut, and it features a 1.48-inch internal diameter. To install the handguard, you will need a low-profile gas block.