What lightweight rail for 12.5" barrel build?

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This is no real help, but FWIW...

I think the reason that many handguards are ~12.5" to ~12.6" is because it's the appropriate length on barrels with rifle-length gas and exposed gas block / front sight. From a manufacturer's perspective, this length will have more appropriate applications over a 12" or 13" rail, and theoretically more sales potential.

If I had a new handguard design to bring to market, with limited funding thus requiring that only one length be manufactured in the initial run, I would introduce it in ~12.5" length. It could be used appropriately with barrels from 14.5" to 24".

Well sure, in the real world of manufacturing. But in my world of "I want it, and I want it now!", it's obviously a conspiracy!

I'm guessing the Noveske NSR KeyMod 11" would work quite well. They're a cinch to install and are very light and slim.

I wish it had built in swivel sockets and was a couple ounces lighter, but it's in the zone, so it's added to the list of possible candidates. I'm not crazy about drilling a receiver to install an anti-rotation pin either. Still, a candidate though. Thank you.