Aluminum vs poly rails

[danasaki]

Are there any advantages to having a polymer rail vs an aluminum rail system? Weight perhaps? The aluminum rails I have looked at just seemed to be better built and have a better fit and finish. The rails I am considering are 2 piece drop ins (not FF) for the stock carbine length.

Comments on polymer rails?

Thanks for any help.

Dan

[LOKNLOD]

The "advantage" of a polymer rail system is only for the manufacturer -- make and sell them cheaply, and grab a piece of the low end market share.

The only polymer rail systems I'm aware of are the Fobus/First Samco/whatever handguard replacements, and they're not up to snuff for a fighting rifle. They might suffice for holding a lightweight flashlight but if that's the only goal there are other ways to accomplish that. I'd rather bolt a small piece of rail to standard handguards than use the plastic rail system.

Being on a budget is understandable. The drop in 2-piece handguards from Midwest Industries, Troy, and Surefire are all good options. The YHM version is servicable as well, although not quite as nice, in my experience. Getting a lightly used set of any of those is a great way to get an even better deal on a tight budget.

[Shihan]

Dont go with the poly rails.

[MX5]

Polymer rails are a no-go - toss 'em.