Fabricated racks ok if certified.

Units can still fabricate and legally use racks as long as the fabricated racks are certified as secure by a TACOM-RI logistics assistance representative (LAR)--or an authorized Reserve Component representative--along with a battalion-level command representative. Once the racks are certified as secure, they are authorized for use indefinitely. Units simply need to place the serial number provided by TACOM or Reserves on the rack and keep the certification document on file.

* have hinged locking bars with hinge pins welded or otherwise secured to the rack frame.

* be secure enough to prevent weapons, receivers, or barrels from being disassembled and removed while locked in the rack without using tools.

* use at least 3/8-in diameter bolts or machine screws. Bolts and nuts must be tack welded, brazed, or peened. Any modifications to standard-issue racks, including adding an adapter bar to the M12 rack to store M4 carbines, must also be approved by TACOM. Send requests for rack certification or modification to:

TACOM EA-SALD ATTN: AMSTA-LC-CSL-D Rock Island, IL 61299-6000

Questions? Contact James Rollins at [phone]/DSN 793-1797 or email: [e-mail]

The NSNs for the standard-issue racks are:

Rack     Weapon                NSN 1095-

M11    M1 and M14 rifle       00-897-8755
M12    M16 rifle/M4 carbine   00-407-0674
M13    M249 machine gun       01-197-7902
M14    M9/M11 pistol          01-236-2203
M15    MK 19 machine gun      01-216-9295
       M240 machine gun       01-466-2065