Browning X-Bolt Short Action Picatinny Rail

MOA stands for Minute of Angle and indicates the rail's incline. An angled rail compensates for bullet drop over distance by tilting the scope slightly forward. This gives you more elevation adjustment in the scope's turret – if you need to shoot very long distances.

For most shooting range and hunting scenarios, 0 MOA (flat rail) is more than sufficient. If you are shooting at longer distances or using a scope with limited elevation, 10 or 20 MOA can give you the extra margin you need.

Read more in our article: What is MOA, and when do you need it?

This rail is made from 7075-T6 aluminum – the same alloy used in military equipment, aircraft construction, and high-end climbing gear. 7075-T6 has a strength-to-weight ratio that is almost twice that of steel, and is the preferred material for many professional shooters and elite military units.

For the vast majority of hunters and shooters, 7075-T6 aluminum is at least as good as steel. The material is lighter, does not corrode, and will last for decades of use under normal conditions.

Read more: Steel vs. Aluminum – What's best for your rifle?

This rail is hard-anodized (Type III anodization). Hard anodization creates an extremely hard and wear-resistant surface layer directly in the aluminum. The surface is actually harder than many types of steel and resists scratches, impacts, and wear from repeated mounting and dismounting.

A hard-anodized aluminum rail is practically maintenance-free and does not corrode – even in a humid climate.

Read more: Hard anodization of aluminum – why it is important

Installation of this rail is quick and simple. The rail is attached directly to the rifle's receiver with the included screws.

Manufacturer's recommendation:

• Tightening torque: 3.5–4.0 Nm
• Use a small amount of weak threadlocker on the screws (primarily for rust protection)
• Tighten the screws in a criss-cross pattern for even distribution

A torque wrench is necessary for proper installation. Overtightening can damage the threads in the receiver.

Read more: Installing a Picatinny rail – complete guide

Nieload is a Danish manufacturer of Picatinny rails and scope mounts, with a focus on precision and quality. Everything is designed and produced in-house on advanced machinery. They offer rails in both steel with QPQ treatment and aluminum with hard anodizing.

Read more about Nieload here: Nieload

See all products from Nieload: Nieload Collection

This rail is manufactured according to the NATO STANAG 2324 / MIL-STD-1913 standard (Picatinny). This means that it is compatible with all standard Picatinny mounts, rings, and accessories – regardless of the manufacturer.

The Picatinny standard ensures that you can freely combine rails, mounts, and optics from different manufacturers. This gives you the flexibility to upgrade or change your scope without changing the rail.

See compatible mounts: Scope Mounts