Quick answer: Picatinny (MIL-STD-1913) is a raised rail with cross slots that accessories clamp onto. M-LOK is a row of slots cut into the handguard that accessories bolt into directly, so it's slimmer and lighter. Got M-LOK but a Picatinny accessory? Bolt on a short M-LOK to Picatinny rail section.
Side by Side
| Picatinny | M-LOK | |
|---|---|---|
| How it mounts | Clamp onto a raised rail | Bolt into slots in the handguard |
| Feel | Bulkier, more edges | Slim and smooth |
| Where you see it | Receiver tops, quad rails, older handguards | Modern handguards and chassis |
| Best for | Optics, quick-detach gear | Grips, lights, hand stops, lasers |
M-LOK to Picatinny Adapters
Short rail sections let you add Picatinny exactly where you need it:
- FAB MA2: 5 slots, 59 mm, 15 g.
- FAB MA3: 7 slots, 90 mm, 20 g.
- FAB MA1 offset: 4 slots with a thumb rest.
FAB Defense MA3 M-LOK Picatinny Rail
Seven Picatinny slots on a polymer rail that bolts straight into M-LOK, 90 mm long and 20 g.
Bolt-On Gear for Each
- M-LOK direct: FAB PTK-M pointing grip, VTS-M hand stop with QD, Meta 500-lumen M-LOK light.
- Picatinny: FAB PTK grip, CAA EVG grip, FAB PR-3 G2 light.
- Either (you choose): KIRO CFF folding foregrip, FAB Spike bipod.
Handguards
Want M-LOK on your rifle? The FAB Vanguard line: AR, AK, VZ 58, plus Remington 870 and Mossberg 500.
FAQ
What is the difference between M-LOK and Picatinny?
Picatinny is a raised rail that accessories clamp onto; M-LOK is a row of slots that accessories bolt into directly, so it's slimmer and lighter.
Can I mount a Picatinny accessory on M-LOK?
Yes, with a short M-LOK to Picatinny rail section like the FAB MA2 or MA3.
Is M-LOK better than Picatinny?
For handguards, M-LOK is slimmer and lighter. For optics and quick-detach gear, Picatinny is still the standard.
What is MIL-STD-1913?
The military standard that defines the Picatinny rail.
The Bottom Line
M-LOK on the handguard, Picatinny where you need a clamp. A short adapter covers the rest.
