Modern firearms, including rifles, are equipped with mounts for attaching optical and lighting devices. However, for some models, you may need to choose the rail yourself. The most common choices are the Weaver rail or the Picatinny rail. Using these rails enhances and improves the efficiency of firearm use. In the PROF1GROUP online store for military goods, you can buy mounts for any firearm, as well as tactical gear for combat tasks, participation in team military-sporting competitions, hunting, and tourism.
Purpose of Picatinny Rails
The Picatinny rail on AK and rifles is essential for improving aiming comfort and shooting accuracy. Lightweight aluminum or steel rails weighing 100-200 g do not burden the firearm or affect its balance, while allowing for the placement of useful equipment, including:
- night vision, thermal, and optical sights;
- additional equipment;
- infrared illumination, under-barrel flashlight;
- bi-pods, auxiliary devices.
The Picatinny rail on the barrel has a T-shaped profile with slots that allow the shooter to freely adjust the optical device along the rail, choosing the most convenient position. It is available in two variants – side Picatinny rail like "Saiga" and top rail like "Elk." Choose the type according to your preferences, firearm structure, and firing technique specifics.
Differences Between Picatinny Rails and Other Mount Types
Optics mounts on firearms are manufactured according to three standards:
- Weaver dovetail;
- Weaver rail;
- Picatinny rail.
The Weaver dovetail mount is suitable for side mounting when the top part of the firearm cannot be used. It is designed for various AK modifications. It comes in different sizes and lacks a unified standard.
Weaver and Picatinny rails are similar in structure – these are mounts with reinforced ventilation in the form of a rail along which optics can be adjusted along the barrel. For some types of firearms, the Picatinny rail can replace the Weaver, but the opposite is not true. The main difference between the models is that the Picatinny rail on PKM has a larger pitch (gap) between the teeth (5-5.3 mm) than the Weaver rail (4.57 mm).
Choosing Mounts Features
When choosing a mount for optics, evaluate the conditions of use and firearm specifics to determine:
- mount type – quick detachable or fixed;
- installation method relative to the barrel (top, side, bottom);
- size (length and width);
- compatibility with firearm type (universal or model-specific design).
Quick detachable models are suitable for frequent and fast device replacement. No additional tools are required for their replacement, and the central point of impact remains, so the firearm does not need to be re-sighted. Fixed mounts securely fix equipment and prevent sight wobble.
Some manufacturers make firearms with a receiver hole for mounting a fixed mount. Its type should be selected for a specific firearm model, as not all allow universal mounting.
The Picatinny rail on AK-74 has slot widths from 5 to 5.3 mm at a distance of 10 mm. The mount can be installed on top, side like the Weaver, or below, which is convenient for attaching flashlights and bi-pods.
Where to Buy Picatinny Rails in Ukraine
Tactical gear, military optics, hiking gear, and equipment in Ukraine can be purchased at the PROF1GROUP network of military goods stores. Here you can buy Picatinny, Weaver, or Weaver dovetail rails of various types and sizes online and at physical sales points.
Ordering from us, you get:
- access to a wide range of original products for military personnel and tourists from popular brands of tactical clothing, equipment, technology, firearms;
- a convenient electronic catalog with easy navigation for quick search of items, models with regular assortment updates according to new deliveries and product availability in stock;
- information on current news, promotions;
- the opportunity to receive consultation by phone or in the chatbot on the website;
- quick processing and execution of orders;
- flexible terms of payment and delivery of goods;
- manufacturer's warranty.
Here you will find everything you need for a hiking trip and preparation for military service in conditions of any complexity. Military goods in stock meet the approved standards of Ukrainian armament, and you can also select clothing and equipment according to NATO standards. We will help you choose quality equipment for both large and small victories.