FORWARD CONTROLS DESIGN
PCM XL Cable Management Panel
The PCM XL is the largest panel in the line, filling three full M-LOK slots at 4.72 inches. It serves as both a rail grip panel and a way to route pressure switch cables securely, which removes a snag hazard. Co-developed with Tactical Night Vision Company.
Also available in standard at one slot and extended at two.
Why Not Just Use Zip Ties
If you run a pressure switch for a weapon light or IR illuminator, you have probably managed the cable with zip ties, rubber bands, or electrical tape. Zip ties trimmed flush leave a sharp edge that rotates around when you least want it to. Rubber bands are not a long term answer.
FCD and TNVC concluded that internal, protected routing is the most secure approach. It does not rely on friction, and the cable cannot be pulled out without removing the panel itself.
Cable Routing
The cable can run straight through, around a 90 degree angle, or make a full 180 degree turn. Panels can be staggered next to each other for longer runs.
It accommodates cables up to 0.140 inches in diameter. For reference, Surefire cables average 0.115 inches and the thickest Unity Tactical cables average 0.140 inches.
It Also Works as a Rail Cover
The PCM was designed to manage cables, not to replace a rail cover, but the surface area above and below the panel means it behaves like a heat sink. At three M-LOK slots the XL covers enough rail to work as a proper grip panel, and it carries the same AA all angles dimpled texture FCD has used since 2016.
Thermal Test Results
FCD ran 300 rounds through a 13.7 inch unsuppressed rifle and another 150 through a suppressed SOLGW 13.7, plus two 30 round magazines on full auto reloaded in under three seconds. Starting at 46F, the PCM warmed to 65F while the barrel reached 272F and the handguard 90F. Repeated twice with consistent results.
It stayed cooler to the touch than the handguard throughout. The steel M-LOK nut and bolt hold more heat than the panel does, but never enough to be uncomfortable.
Installation
Torque to a maximum of 35 in-lb on metal M-LOK handguards, or 15 in-lb on polymer handguards.
A Note on Finish
Anodizing colors vary batch to batch and shop to shop. FDE can run lighter or darker, and ODG shades vary. If you are matching to existing parts, expect some variation.
What's Included
1x Forward Controls Design PCM XL Panel in your selected finish
M-LOK mounting hardware
One panel per package
Specifications
- Billet machined from solid 6061 aluminum
- Type III hard coat anodized in black, FDE, or ODG
- AA all angles dimpled texture
- Length: 4.72 inches, requires three M-LOK slots
- Width: 0.6 inches
- Installed height: 0.22 inches
- Weight: 0.91 oz with M-LOK nuts and bolts
- Accommodates cables up to 0.140 inches diameter
- Straight, 90 degree, or 180 degree cable routing
- M-LOK compatible, hardware included
- Torque: 35 in-lb max on metal handguards, 15 in-lb on polymer
- Can be staggered alongside additional panels
- Made in USA
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