Both are excellent solutions and both have their advantages & disadvantages.  Between the two, the following pros & cons are what I generally point out when asked which is better -

M900A:

- complete package with great ergonomics if you want a vert. grip system
- LED nav' lights are great bonus

- size & weight can be an issue for some, shooting prone is a bit awkward due to it's height
- 6 o'clock position only so it may not transfer to future acquisitions
- accidental activation possible
- cost

M95/96/97x:

- easily upgradeable and configurable to users needs
- easily transferable to other weapons
- lower cost

- increases profile width of the weapon when mounted at 3 or 9, also changes balance slightly
- tapeswitches have to be directed (t.sw. can result in accidental activation)
- no LED nav' light option

Quoted:  I have an M500A on one of my AR's and just bought a new Bushmaster M4. I just ordered the M73, Tango front grip and the 962XM06 for the front. Just curious if anyone has both or has had experience with both and want to know which one is better? I will be using the Bushy for patrol duty functions, and need to know what would be better.  I am anxiously awaiting the new 962 to arrive so I can atleast mount it so I know if I like the front grip style setup, as I have only had the M500's on my AR's. Any help or input before I decide to spend over $600.00 to get a M900/M73 for the other AR, would be appreciated, Thanks...

The M900A tends to be to long for most users and is generally in a poor position if your using cover (as you want as little of your body exposed as possible).

The M96 series with the LaRue Tactical SF mount allows you to put the light at the optimal position (1 o'clock). You can also run it down at the 4 o'clock position.

For more info on this setup: www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=7&f=25&t=262122


C4

www.gandrtactical.com

Quoted: Grant, How much is the Larue mount, and is it a direct replacement of the swan from Surefire? Thanks..

They are $89 and are a direct replacement to the ARMS or thumb screw mounts from SF.



C4

Quoted: So how does an M500A stack up to these setups?  What are the pro & cons as measured against a 900 or rail set up? Thanks for any response.

The M500A is a good setup (as long as you don't want a VG). They have also been known to trap heat (which can cause issues on FA).



C4

Quoted: So how does an M500A stack up to these setups?  What are the pro & cons as measured against a 900 or rail set up? Thanks for any response.

The M500A of course has the same output as the M900A and M96x so performancewise it's the same.  The benefits of the M500's are the nav' lights, 'normal feel' if you've never used a vertical grip, and the ability to switch to a 9v turbohead configuration (same with the M900/M96x) or, you can even upgrade to an 18v system if you want serious down range performance.

The biggest appeal with the M500's is the fact you don't have to worry about getting all the different components such as: RAS, covers, vertical grip, light setup, etc.  It's all in one package with simple & relatively quick installation.