Picatinny rail

Picatinny rail: the tactical standard for attaching your accessories

The Picatinny rail , also known as MIL-STD-1913, is the standardized mounting system used by armed forces, sport shooters, and field professionals. Initially developed by the Picatinny Arsenal for the US Army, this rail has become an international standard adopted by NATO. Its robust design and universal compatibility make it a strategic choice for equipping any weapon reliably, accurately, and scalably.

Why choose a Picatinny rail?

Unlike older Weaver rails, Picatinny rails offer strict standardization of notches (dimensions, spacing, tolerances), allowing for perfect interchangeability between accessories. It is designed to accommodate:

• Tactical riflescopes or optics
• Flashlights for low-visibility environments
• Laser pointers for rapid target acquisition
• Vertical or forearm handles for control
• Bipods to improve shooting stability

Thanks to its modularity, it adapts equally well to assault rifles , precision carbines , and certain handguns . It allows for optimized performance in the field according to operational needs: CQB, long-range shooting, night use, or special missions.

Technical specifications of the MIL-STD-1913 rail

The Picatinny rail is distinguished by its T-shaped structure with regular notches, designed to ensure a secure, play-free hold for mounted accessories. Standard dimensions are:

• Notch width: 0.206” (5.23 mm)
• Notch spacing: 0.394” (10 mm)
• Notch depth: 0.118” (2.99 mm)

Made from CNC-machined aluminum or treated steel, the rail is resistant to heat, corrosion, and the mechanical stresses of heavy use. It can be mounted on the weapon's body , handguard , or elevated depending on tactical configurations.

Compatibility and scalability

The Picatinny rail is compatible with the vast majority of tactical equipment on the market. It now coexists with other systems like the M-LOK or KeyMod , which offer lighter or more minimalist alternatives. Nevertheless, for a proven, robust, and universal solution, the Picatinny rail remains the preferred standard in demanding environments.

Used by armies worldwide, it also equips civilian platforms such as the AR-15 , RA15 , and RA9 rifles. It ensures a stable mount, simplified maintenance, and a