M4 B&t Quad Rail Problems

[canyonair]

Just bought a B&T Forend Quad Rail for my Benelli M4. Everything looked good until I tried to install it.

Apparently, Benelli did some design changes to the barrels on the new M4s so you are now required to remove six threadlocked hex screws to separate the upper rail from the main assembly. I applied about 15 minutes of high heat to lossen the threadlocker, tried and it did not budge. Again applied the heat to try it again. This time stripped the hex screw head.

I did not try the other screws and promptly sent the rail back to DSArms. I asked them if they could remove the upper rail. If they will, I will not request a refund. Anyone else have a similiar problem with this product?

[Duggan]

There are lots of problems with the B&T rails in addition to this.

That's why you don't see many of them.

[canyonair]

I went back and reviewed some older posts about venting issues. A more recent post concerned the screw issue which im dealing with now. What other issues are out there about the B&T M4 Rail System? Besides the Surefire M80, what are the other options for a forend rail system?

[cop1211]

How much was the rail? Was thinking about buying it myself, guess the Surefire would be the better way to go?

[Duggan]

From what I remember, the complaints went something like this:

1) - Poor venting, got hot very easily or something
2) - The open rail apparently doesn't stop the hot gas from flying in your face and hands.
3) - The screw issue, and the new barrel profile doesn't fit the BT rail right
4) - overall poor fit/finish

I've never used one, so I can't say anything firsthand about them. I've just talked to a few people who have had them, and that is what I remember them saying IIRC.

As far a rail options, it's pretty limited. Surefire, B&T, and mesa tactical if they ever decide to complete their vaporware rail. I'm not holding my breath.

[Unobtanium]

Meh, they look mall-ninja to me, but that doesn't mean I don't think they look cool! Shame they don't function, that with a surefire FG would rock!

[No F-Bdy Bs]

All the more reason to not put a quad rail on a shotgun.

[M4CQB]

From what I remember, the complaints went something like this:

1) - Poor venting, got hot very easily or something
2) - The open rail apparently doesn't stop the hot gas from flying in your face and hands.
3) - The screw issue, and the new barrel profile doesn't fit the BT rail right
4) - overall poor fit/finish

I've never used one, so I can't say anything firsthand about them. I've just talked to a few people who have had them, and that is what I remember them saying IIRC.

As far a rail options, it's pretty limited. Surefire, B&T, and mesa tactical if they ever decide to complete their vaporware rail. I'm not holding my breath.

All user issues.

#1 & #2 are related.

If the rail is not fitted properly, this can lead to gas escaping from where it should not. When the rail is properly installed, NO gas should blow in your face or on your hands.

#3

It should never be assumed that the tools provided with a product are all that you need for proper installation. I used my own allen wrench and it was notably tighter in the screw heads than the wrench that was provided. Many people strip the screws because the wrong wrench is being used.

#4

The fit and finish on my rail is top notch.



On another note, the best way to breakdown the locktight on the rail is to stick it in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10-15 minutes. This takes care of the problem very quick.

It is easy to simply blame a product, but in reality, this one is an issue of too many shade tree mechanics blowing up motors they should not be trying to work on.

The B&T rail is a lot like the quadrails on ARs that require you to remove the delta ring. It is NOT like the cheap rails that simply pop into place where the plastic handguards sit. The B&T rails require a bit more ""know how" and patience.

This is simply an issue of you get what you pay for, and when I say pay, I am not only talking about the price, but also in regard to the time one is willing to invest into getting the job done right.