
The open source nature encourages gear makers to use the lightweight system when designing handguards, accessories and even full rifles. The open source designation allows any company to make rails or accessories using KeyMod without paying royalties. The result of a partnership between VLTOR and Noveske, the open-source KeyMod design was released to the public domain in 2012. To attach an accessory, users line up the lugs on the part with the round part of the keyhole then slide it forward and tighten the screws.

KeyMod rails consist of rows of keyhole shapes that allow KeyMod-compatible accessories to mount into place on the handguard. KeyMod utilizes keyhole shapes to mount rifle accessories to the handguard.
