Elevate Your AR-15 Build: The Strike Industries Strike Rail 13.5" M-LOK Handguard in Blue

For serious AR-15 enthusiasts, custom rifle builders, and competitive shooters, optimizing every component of your firearm is key to achieving peak performance and a personalized aesthetic. The handguard, often overlooked beyond its primary function, plays a crucial role in the rifle's balance, modularity, and overall feel. If you're searching for the best way to lighten your AR-15, enhance accessory attachment, and give it a distinctive look, the Strike Industries Strike Rail 13.5" M-LOK handguard in a striking blue finish offers a compelling solution.

This premium free-float handguard is engineered for those who demand precision, durability, and a clean, modern design for their AR-15 platform. Whether you're upgrading an existing rifle, embarking on a new custom build, or looking for a lightweight option that doesn't compromise on strength, the Strike Rail is designed to meet and exceed expectations. Its thoughtful design addresses common user pain points, providing a stable platform for optics and accessories while minimizing added weight.

What Makes the Strike Industries Strike Rail a Standout Choice?

The Strike Industries Strike Rail is not just another handguard; it's a meticulously crafted component designed to optimize your AR-15. Manufactured from high-grade aluminum and finished with a vibrant blue anodization, it offers a blend of ruggedness and visual appeal. Its 13.50-inch length provides ample real estate for various accessories without being overly cumbersome, striking an ideal balance for most rifle configurations.

At its core, the Strike Rail is a free-float handguard. This design means it does not touch the barrel beyond the barrel nut, effectively isolating the barrel from external forces that could induce flex or pressure points. The result? Enhanced accuracy and consistency, especially during rapid firing or when using bipods and other barrel-contacting accessories. This foundational benefit alone makes it a highly sought-after upgrade for any serious shooter.

Deeper Dive into Key Features and Benefits

The excellence of the Strike Rail lies in its well-executed features, each contributing to a superior shooting experience:

1. Advanced M-LOK Mounting System

The M-LOK (Modular Lock) system is the industry standard for accessory attachment, offering a lightweight, direct-attach method that surpasses older rail systems in efficiency and versatility. The Strike Rail features M-LOK slots strategically placed at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions along its length.

• Streamlined Accessory Attachment: M-LOK allows for direct attachment of accessories like foregrips, bipods, weapon lights, laser modules, and sling mounts without the need for bulky Picatinny rail sections. This significantly reduces overall weight and profile.
• Superior Ergonomics: The smooth, unencumbered surface of the M-LOK handguard provides a more comfortable and natural gripping surface compared to a quad-rail system, which can be sharp and unwieldy without rail covers.
• Future-Proof Design: With M-LOK being widely adopted across the firearms industry, you can be confident that a vast array of compatible accessories will be available for years to come.

2. High-Strength 6061-T6 Aluminum Construction

The choice of material is paramount for a handguard, dictating its weight, durability, and rigidity. The Strike Rail is precision-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, a high-strength, aerospace-grade alloy known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance.

• Exceptional Durability: This aluminum alloy is resistant to bending, twisting, and impact damage, ensuring your handguard can withstand the rigors of heavy use in various environments.
• Lightweight Performance: Despite its robust construction, the Strike Rail remains remarkably light, contributing to a more agile and less fatiguing rifle. A lighter front end improves maneuverability, especially beneficial in dynamic shooting scenarios or during extended periods of carry.
• Heat Dissipation: Aluminum effectively dissipates heat from the barrel during prolonged firing sessions, protecting your hands and preventing heat mirage from distorting your sight picture.

3. Optimal 13.50-inch Length

The 13.50-inch length of the Strike Rail is carefully chosen to provide a generous amount of mounting space while remaining compact enough for practical handling.

• Ample Accessory Real Estate: This length accommodates a wide range of accessory configurations, allowing users to mount lights, lasers, and grips without crowding. It's particularly useful for those who prefer to extend their support hand further down the rail for better stability and control.
• Barrel Protection: A 13.5-inch handguard typically extends close to or even past the gas block on common 14.5-inch or 16-inch barrels, offering added protection for the gas system.
• Aesthetic Balance: This length often provides a visually appealing, balanced look on standard AR-15 barrel lengths, creating a sleek and integrated profile.

4. Distinctive Blue Anodized Finish

Beyond its functional advantages, the Strike Rail in blue offers a unique aesthetic that allows for personal expression and customization.

• Personalized Aesthetics: The vibrant blue anodization stands out from the typical black and FDE options, giving your AR-15 a distinct and eye-catching appearance. This is ideal for builders who want their rifle to reflect their individual style.
• Enhanced Corrosion Resistance: Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. This not only provides color but also enhances the handguard's longevity in harsh conditions.
• Scratch Resistance: The hard anodized finish provides a level of scratch resistance, helping to maintain the handguard's pristine look even with regular use.

5. User-Friendly Installation and Compatibility

Strike Industries designs its products with the end-user in mind, and the Strike Rail is no exception. It's engineered for straightforward installation for anyone with basic AR-15 armorers tools.

• Included Barrel Nut: The handguard comes with its own proprietary barrel nut and mounting hardware, ensuring a secure and precise fit. The design often allows for easy alignment and installation without complex timing requirements.
• Compatibility: The Strike Rail is designed for standard Mil-Spec AR-15 upper receivers, making it a versatile upgrade for most popular AR-15 builds. It's also typically compatible with low-profile gas blocks, which is crucial for free-float handguards.

Who Will Benefit Most from the Strike Industries Strike Rail?

This handguard is an excellent investment for several types of AR-15 owners:

• The Custom AR-15 Builder: If you're building an AR-15 from scratch or looking to transform an existing rifle into a truly unique firearm, the Strike Rail offers a perfect blend of high-end features and striking aesthetics. Its blue finish makes it a cornerstone for a themed build.
• The Competitive Shooter: In disciplines like 3-Gun or tactical rifle matches, every ounce matters, and accessory placement is critical. The lightweight, modular design of the Strike Rail helps reduce fatigue during extended stages and provides a stable platform for competition-specific accessories.
• The Discerning Enthusiast: For those who appreciate quality components and want to elevate their rifle beyond standard configurations, the Strike Rail offers both functional improvements and a premium look and feel.
• Anyone Seeking to Reduce Rifle Weight: If your current setup feels front-heavy or cumbersome, switching to a lightweight free-float handguard like the Strike Rail can significantly improve the rifle's balance and maneuverability.
• Those Prioritizing Ergonomics: The slim profile and M-LOK system contribute to a more comfortable and secure grip, enhancing control and reducing hand fatigue during long shooting sessions.

How Does the Strike Rail Enhance Your Shooting Experience?

Beyond the sum of its parts, the Strike Industries Strike Rail delivers tangible improvements to your AR-15 shooting experience:

• Improved Accuracy Potential: The free-float design minimizes barrel harmonics and external pressure, leading to more consistent shot placement.
• Enhanced Modularity: The M-LOK system offers unparalleled flexibility for attaching and reconfiguring accessories to suit different tasks or preferences.
• Superior Handling: Reduced weight and a balanced feel make the rifle more nimble and less tiring to operate, whether you're transitioning between targets, holding a position, or simply carrying it for extended periods.
• Unmistakable Style: The blue anodized finish provides a distinctive look that sets your rifle apart from the crowd, making it a conversation piece at the range.
• Reliable Performance: Built to the highest standards, this handguard will withstand the rigors of regular use, providing a stable platform for your aiming devices and accessories for years to come.

Common Questions About AR-15 Handguards and the Strike Rail

When considering an upgrade like the Strike Industries Strike Rail, many common questions arise. Here are some of the most frequent inquiries and their answers:

Q: What is the main benefit of a free-float handguard like the Strike Rail?
A: The primary benefit is improved accuracy. By only contacting the barrel at the barrel nut, a free-float handguard eliminates any pressure or flex that could be applied to the barrel by a traditional handguard. This allows the barrel to vibrate consistently with each shot, leading to tighter groups and more reliable performance.

Q: Is M-LOK better than Picatinny or KeyMod?
A: M-LOK is generally considered superior due to its direct-attach method, which is lighter and more streamlined than Picatinny rails. Compared to KeyMod, M-LOK offers a more robust and secure lock-up for accessories, making it less prone to loosening over time. Most new accessories are designed for M-LOK, making it the current industry standard.

Q: Will the blue finish wear off easily?
A: The Strike Rail features a hard anodized finish, which is highly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and corrosion. While no finish is entirely indestructible, anodization provides a tough protective layer that will hold up well to typical use and maintain its vibrant color for a long time.

Q: Is the installation difficult for a first-time builder?
A: While installing any AR-15 component requires some basic tools and a careful approach, the Strike Rail's design, which includes its own barrel nut, simplifies the process. Resources like online tutorials and gunsmithing guides can walk you through each step. If you're unsure, professional installation is always an option.

Q: What barrel lengths pair best with a 13.5-inch handguard?
A: A 13.5-inch handguard is an excellent choice for 14.5-inch barrels (when pinned and welded to meet NFA length requirements) or 16-inch barrels, which are very common. It provides good hand placement and accessory space without extending too far past the muzzle on these popular lengths. It can also be used effectively on longer barrels, offering a more compact front end.

Q: Can I use this handguard with a pistol-length gas system?
A: Yes, the Strike Rail is compatible with pistol, carbine, mid-length, and rifle-length gas systems, provided you use a low-profile gas block that fits underneath the handguard. This is standard practice for free-float handguards.

Maintaining Your Strike Industries Strike Rail

Keeping your Strike Rail in top condition is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth after use will prevent dirt and carbon buildup. For more thorough cleaning, a soft brush and a mild, gun-safe solvent can be used, followed by a light oil application if desired, though the anodized finish typically requires minimal lubrication. Avoid harsh abrasives or strong chemical cleaners that could damage the finish. Regularly check the mounting screws for tightness, especially after the first few range sessions, to ensure everything remains secure.

The Strike Industries Commitment to Innovation

Strike Industries has built a reputation for producing innovative, high-quality firearm accessories that combine practical functionality with distinctive aesthetics. Their design philosophy focuses on enhancing the user experience, whether through improved ergonomics, reduced weight, or increased modularity. The Strike Rail is a prime example of this commitment, offering a product that performs exceptionally well while standing out from the crowd. When you choose a Strike Industries product, you're investing in a brand known for pushing the boundaries of AR-15 customization and performance.

Where to Acquire Your Strike Industries Strike Rail

Ready to transform your AR-15 with the lightweight, modular, and visually striking Strike Industries Strike Rail in blue? These exceptional handguards, along with a wide array of other premium firearm components and accessories, are readily available at DEGuns. As a trusted retailer, DEGuns ensures you receive genuine Strike Industries products with reliable service. Explore their extensive inventory to find the perfect components for your next build or upgrade project.

Conclusion: A Foundation for Peak Performance and Personalized Style

The Strike Industries Strike Rail 13.5" M-LOK handguard in Blue (SISTRIKERAIL135BLU) is more than just a component; it's a statement of performance and personal style for your AR-15. Its free-float design, robust 6061-T6 aluminum construction, versatile M-LOK system, and eye-catching blue finish make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to build a lightweight, accurate, and highly customizable rifle. By choosing this handguard, you're investing in a critical upgrade that will enhance your shooting experience, improve your rifle's capabilities, and give it a truly unique identity.

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Strike Industries Strike Rail 13.5" M-LOK Specifications

Feature	Description
Model	Strike Rail 13.5" M-LOK
Manufacturer	Strike Industries
SKU	SISTRIKERAIL135BLU
UPC	708022026148
Firearm Type	AR-15 Rifle
Material	6061-T6 Aluminum
Length	13.50 Inches
Mounting System	M-LOK (3, 6, 9 o'clock)
Color	Blue Anodized
Design	Free-Float Handguard
Compatibility	Mil-Spec AR-15 Upper Receivers
Includes	Proprietary Barrel Nut & Hardware