What rail must be removed first before installing the pistol grip?

The pistol grip is typically mounted to the body of the firearm, and for certain weapons platforms, it is essential to remove the rail cover or heat shield first to access the mounting points for the grip. This part is designed to protect the underlying components and also can obstruct direct access to where the grip needs to be secured. By removing the rail cover or heat shield first, you can then ensure that any mounting hardware for the pistol grip is easily accessible and that the grip can be installed properly. This step prevents any potential damage to the components that might occur if you attempt to install the grip without properly removing the cover first.