just get what you are comfortable with. You don't wanna go full boot you don't have too. Find a happy medium between the coin you have and the lecel of protection you need Just don't wear sneakers or mandals like TurboNick!
The rails are metal and these can be found for about 1/3 the price of an AR. Some of us "Go our own Way" and don't follow you trendy dewds. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8Ojjn35kP8&feature=youtube_gdata_player