Rail integration system
Rail Integration Systems (RIS, sometimes also referred to as a "Rail Adapter Sytem") are the primary method of attaching accessories to small fire-arms such as assault rifles (such as the American M-16, or the semi-automatic AR-15 civilian version which were originally designed by Colt), and light-machine-guns (LMG). This is done primarily in militaries and by fire-arm enthusiasts to improve the usability of the weapon being accessorized without quickly end efficiently without requiring the weapon operator to field-strip the weapon. Most quality RIS systems are built to the M1913 Picatinny standards.
There are different styles of RIS, depending on how much the operator will be accessorizing the weapon. Basic systems that can be installed on weapons such as the previously mentioned AR-15/M-16 are usually small rails with holes machined in them that are screwed onto the existing hand guard on the rifle and can cost as little as $25 to $40 USD. More advanced systems allow for numerous accessories to be mounted simultaneously and cost a average minimum of $200 USD and up for a decent quality system.
A relatively inexpensive, simple RIS (image courtesy of File:Http://www.tapco.net)http://www.tapco.com/item pics/md/MNT0913 md.jpg
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A more advanced, and expensive RIS (image courtesy of http://www.special-warfare.net)File:Http://www.special-warfare.net/data base/207 accessories/knights 01/knights mws 11.jpg
Common accessories include flash-lights, laser-aiming-mechanisms, forward hand-grips for improving weapon handling, scopes for medium ranged targets, reflex/red-dot sights for short to medium ranged targets, and more.
LoneKnight 07:20, 23 February 2006 (UTC)