For those new to the use of specific terms used by shooters and gun enthusiasts, the various terms used can be confusing, to say the least. Two terms that are used interchangeably are the terms handguards and rails.
In reality, they can be the same thing. AR15 handguards are used specifically to keep the shooter’s hand from making direct contact with the barrel. As the barrel can heat up significantly when firing rapid rounds, the handguard provides protection and ease of use of the weapon.
AR15 rails are a specific style of handguard that includes actual rails that allow for accessories to be mounted to the handguard. For example, rails provide protection for the shooter in holding the weapon, but they are also used to attach a scope, optics, lights, lasers or other types of accessories.
Free Float Rails
Also called free floating rails, these are AR15 rails that are very easy to install on most weapons. In fact, they are often called drop-in rails. There are many different designs in these rails, but they are considered to improve accuracy by solidly holding the scope in place. There is absolutely no movement with these rails, so they are a must for those serious about shooting.
This is accomplished through the lack of contact between the free floating AR15 rails, and the gun. These rails mount to the upper receiver, so there is no impact on the rail or the accessories mounted to the rail when the gun is fired.
Longer Options
With the free floating rails, which are often quad rails, additional accessories are easy to mount on the weapon. These rails can be up to 16 inches in length, which gives you the space along the barrel needed to really customize the gun.
