As I’ve said before, I really love the Ruger PC Carbine, but the stock model isn’t without its flaws. One of the biggest issues is the exceptionally poor excuse for a Picatinny rail on the handguard. For individuals who want to use the base model (Model 19100) for defensive purposes and want the ability to mount a light or other accessory, you need an aftermarket solution.
I wrote in a previous post about Midwest Industries’ aftermarket MLOK rail solution, and now I’d like to talk about another option – the Catalyst Arms Hardpoint Accessory Mounting System.
When compared to the Midwest option, the Catalyst mount is much slimmer and has significantly fewer mounting options. It has three MLOK slots, one each at the three o’clock, six o’clock, and nine o’clock. The six o’clock slot is a departure from the Midwest design, which only has slots at three and nine o’clock.
Another significant departure from the Midwest design is the QD socket incorporated as part of the mounting screw on the Catalyst mount. Fitting with the ambidextrous nature of the PC Carbine, the QD socket is reversible. Having the QD socket as part of the mounting screw eliminates the need to use an MLOK slot for a QD socket but also restricts your ability to choose where you want the socket located (other than right/left).
The Catalyst mount achieved a tighter lock-up on the handguard than the Midwest mount did, at least in my experience. As I said previously, I don’t feel that the wobble is a deal-breaker, but it is nice to have the tight lock-up.
The MLOK slots are large enough to fit a 3-slot rail section, like the one in the photo below from Arisaka, and these sections are perfect for mounting a pistol light or Scout-style light. The slots are also the perfect size for any number of other light mounts to match your needs (and I’ll shamelessly plug Arisaka’s light mounts yet again).
Conclusion
Probably the best way to think of the Catalyst mount is as a minimalist way to add defensive capability to your PC Carbine. It’s slim, lightweight, and has the minimum MLOK slots available to enhance your capability without adding bulk. The QD socket is an added bonus for those that intend to use a sling.
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