Mounting a light on AR Q

[SATX man]

I wanted to see if this is possible I want to mount a light on a plastic handguard is this possible? If so what equipment will I need? I have Surefire lights but I wanted to put a pressure switch for light, what all will I need, a new tail cap and switch?

 

[MrCleanOK]

You can buy picatinny rails that will mount to the vent holes in plastic handguards. Depending on what kind of light/mount you have, that will give you a few options. Use adhesive velcro to stick your tape switch on. You won't always want the light on the rifle, so taking the switch off is nice.

 

[benEzra]

A front sight rail is also a good option, and puts the light in an ideal position; it is probably also less fragile than one that bolts to the handguard.

http://www.botachtactical.com/caam4frsimod.html

If you have a standard size Surefire flashlight, you can use one of these to attach it to a rail:

http://www.gggaz.com/index.php?id=110

The tailcap/pressure switch can probably be ordered as an accessory from Surefire or a distributor.

 

[ChristopherG]

I've got the setup in beEzra's top pic, in post #3: TLR-1 on a front-sight mounted metal rail. It's sturdy and puts the light in great position for thumb operation (as in the pic). To me, a carbine forearm is so short I didn't want to give any of it up to put a light on.

 

[dodge]

You can buy short pieces of rail that bolt on to you standard forearms. This allows you to mount a light usually at the 6 o'clock postion. I have one that I got from Cabela's and have seen them online at other sites as well.

 

[SATX man]

Thanks for replys so far if I have a 6P led light http://www.surefire.com/6P-Led , all I will need is a switch will this one work?
http://www.surefire.com/Remote-Tailcap-Switch-Assembly-for-Scout-Light

 

[minutemen1776]

I also highly recommend a front sight tower Picatinny rail mount for a tactical light, especially if you're using an M4/CAR length handguard. I went with this setup after figuring out (through using/owning one) that I REALLY dislike railed forearms. I also disliked the idea of mounting a length of rail to my handguards, both because it would occupy space needed for my hand and it would put the light in a six o'clock position directly behind my sling. I bought a ProMag sight tower rail from Midway and have loved it. With a TLR-1 light, the mount puts the light's rocker switch right at my thumb. No reaching, no stretching, and no remote pressure switches required!

 

[DMK]

I use the style of rail that attaches directly to the handguard. There's an aluminum piece inside the handguard and keeps the screws from pulling through. I use a handgun type Streamlight with switches at the rear (just like in the middle pic that BenEzra posted). I can click the switch with my index finger while my hand is on the forearm. No wires or pressure switches necessary. Very easy, intuitive and convenient to use.

I also have the ring that allows me to mount a regular handheld Taclight on the rail (A Surefire G3 in my case). You need a new shock absorbing lamp assembly from Surefire or recoil will kill your bulb. I have found that the way I mount it, I can rotate the tail with my finger so a fancy tailcap isn't necessary. But I do prefer the handgun style light with better momentary switch capability. I use the G3 only as a cheap backup solution just in case my other one breaks. Plus it makes a handheld flashlight handy at the gun safe.

(keep in mind I only have Midlength carbines and 20" full length ARs. CAR/M4 style handguards might not have enough room for my solution. YMMV)