When it comes to setting up a bipod on your rifle, the type of rail you choose can make all the difference in stability, versatility, and compatibility. Today, we’re looking at the two main bipod rail types: ARCA and Picatinny, and how they mount to different rifle platforms — whether it’s an M-LOK chassis or a traditional hunting stock. We’ll break down the differences, the pros and cons of each, and help you decide what’s best for your rifle setup.
M-LOK Compatibility – The Easy Option
If your rifle is built on a chassis system, you’re probably dealing with M-LOK — a modular mounting platform that accepts a wide range of accessories. For bipods, that usually means you’ll be choosing between a Picatinny or ARCA rail that attaches directly to the M-LOK slots on your fore-end.
This is the most straightforward system. You can simply install a short Picatinny or ARCA section wherever you need it. Many shooters mount a small section of rail at the very front of the chassis to support their bipod, especially if the bipod uses ARCA or Picatinny clamps.
Some chassis systems, particularly high-end ones, already have ARCA rails integrated into the underside of the fore-end. In these cases, no rail installation is needed — you just attach your ARCA-compatible bipod directly. If that’s your setup, you’re good to go.
Universal or Stock Mounting – Ideal for Hunting Rifles
For traditional hunting rifles with standard stocks, things get a little more involved. These rifles typically come with sling studs, not rail systems, so you need a way to mount a bipod rail. There are two main approaches: direct-mount rails and sling stud adapters (also known as SRA mounts).
Picatinny Rail Options for Standard Stocks
1. Direct Mount Picatinny Rails
These rails screw directly into the underside of the stock. They sit very close to the stock, giving you a low-profile fit — ideal for stability and maintaining a clean look. Our Armacore direct-mount rails come in three contour profiles to suit different stock shapes:
- Flat – for flat-bottom stocks
- Tactical – for slightly curved stocks
- Hunter – for heavily curved stocks
We also offer two lengths to suit rifles with either single or dual sling mounts. If your stock has two sling studs, you can remove both and install the rail using existing holes — no drilling required. If you only have one stud, you’ll need to drill a second hole to fully secure the rail.
2. Sling Stud Rail Adapters (SRAs)
SRAs mount directly onto an existing sling stud — no drilling or modification required. They retain the sling stud and provide a raised Picatinny rail platform. These are great for anyone who wants a no-fuss, reversible solution.
There are a few models worth noting:
- Atlas BT81
- Accu-Tac SRA
- MIM SRA – our preferred option due to its longer rail section
One limitation of SRAs is that they sit significantly lower, with around 15mm of added height. Also, many models (like the Atlas and Accu-Tac) only have three Picatinny slots, which can be an issue if your bipod has widely spaced recoil lugs. The MIM version has more slots and better overall compatibility, especially with larger or tactical bipods.
ARCA Rail Options for Standard Stocks
We also offer ARCA rails for traditional rifle stocks. Our Armacore ARCA rail system follows the same principles as our Picatinny version — available in multiple lengths (40mm, 80mm, 120mm, etc.) and three contour styles (flat, tactical, hunter) to match your stock’s profile.
Like the Picatinny version, if you have two sling studs, the install is simple. If you only have one, you’ll need to add a second mounting point. These rails feature slotted mounting holes underneath, allowing flexible screw placement and easy installation.
So, Which Rail System is Best?
- For Chassis Rifles with M-LOK:
Go with ARCA if you’re planning to do precision shooting or use accessories like tripods or barricade stops. Use Picatinny if your bipod only supports that mount. - For Traditional Hunting Rifles:
Use a Picatinny sling stud adapter for quick installation without modifying your stock — just keep in mind the height and slot limitations. For a cleaner, more solid fit, go with a direct-mount Picatinny or ARCA rail if you’re comfortable drilling (or if your stock already has two mounting holes).
Final Thoughts
Both ARCA and Picatinny rails have their place in bipod mounting — the key is choosing the right style for your rifle and shooting needs. Whether you’re hunting, competing, or just setting up a stable bench rifle, having the right bipod rail will make a noticeable difference in performance and ease of use.
Still not sure what you need? Get in touch and we’ll help you match the perfect rail to your setup.