Surface-mount and through-post describe how the end hardware meets the post. Surface-mount fittings attach at the post face. Through-post fittings pass through a prepared end-post opening and require the approved path and access arrangement. Neither label identifies the complete product by itself.
To choose an MR.RAIL family, combine the mounting method with post material, stair or level geometry, connection method, cable construction and cable diameter. A mixed project can require more than one family even when every cable run uses the same cable.
This page is a product-selection guide, not an instruction to drill or modify a post. Confirm model-specific preparation and the complete railing design before installation.
The practical difference is the post interface
Surface-mount hardware keeps the fitting attachment at the post face. MR.RAIL uses separate standard Quick Lock families for wood-post and metal-post surface mounting, and separate families for stair and level geometry.
Through-post hardware uses a prepared opening through the end post. The route through the post, the exterior hardware arrangement and access for installation and tensioning must match the selected model and the approved project details.
MR.RAIL surface-mount product families
For wood-post Quick Lock applications, MR-01 / MR-11 / MR-21 cover stair or angled runs and MR-02 / MR-12 / MR-22 cover level or straight runs.
For metal-post Quick Lock applications, MR-03 / MR-13 / MR-23 cover stair or angled runs and MR-04 / MR-14 / MR-24 cover level or straight runs.
MR-08 / MR-18 / MR-28 are the standard surface-mount Swage family for wood-post stair or level runs. This family uses a permanent crimped connection and accepts matching-diameter 1×19 or 7×7 cable.
MR.RAIL through-post Quick Lock families
MR-05 / MR-15 / MR-25 are for stair or angled through-post arrangements. MR-06 / MR-16 / MR-26 are for level or straight through-post arrangements. Both categories use matching-diameter 1×19 stainless steel cable.
Do not choose a through-post family only for its lower-visibility exterior profile. First confirm that the post, prepared path, rear access and tensioning access support the approved model-specific installation.
Mounting method does not replace the other checks
- Post material: identify wood or metal for every end condition.
- Run geometry: separate stair or angled runs from level or straight runs.
- Cable construction: Quick Lock uses 1×19; Swage accepts matching 1×19 or 7×7.
- Cable diameter: select the exact 1/8, 5/32 or 3/16-inch family.
- Connection workflow: Quick Lock is push-in; Swage requires the specified permanent crimping process.
The wood-post versus metal-post guide and stair versus level guide cover the two related application decisions in more detail.
Surface-mount and through-post family matrix
| Model families | Mounting | Post | Run | Connection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MR-01 / MR-11 / MR-21 | Surface mount | Wood | Stair or angled | Quick Lock |
| MR-02 / MR-12 / MR-22 | Surface mount | Wood | Level or straight | Quick Lock |
| MR-03 / MR-13 / MR-23 | Surface mount | Metal | Stair or angled | Quick Lock |
| MR-04 / MR-14 / MR-24 | Surface mount | Metal | Level or straight | Quick Lock |
| MR-05 / MR-15 / MR-25 | Through post | Wood or metal | Stair or angled | Quick Lock |
| MR-06 / MR-16 / MR-26 | Through post | Wood or metal | Level or straight | Quick Lock |
| MR-08 / MR-18 / MR-28 | Surface mount | Wood | Stair or level | Swage |
The table maps the standard families. It does not state package contents or project suitability. Confirm the exact model, quantity, hardware at both cable ends and current manual.
Ordering information that prevents a mounting mismatch
- Identify both end posts. Note the material and available access at each end of the run.
- State the mounting preference. Record surface mount or through post; include drawings or photographs for unusual conditions.
- Classify the run. Mark stair or angled and level or straight sections separately.
- Confirm the cable. Record both construction and outside diameter.
- Select the connection method. Match Quick Lock or Swage to the cable and planned installation workflow.
- Request exact model quantities. Include packaging, labeling and documentation requirements when applicable.
- Use the current manual. Verify preparation and tools before work begins.
Frequently asked questions
What is through-post cable railing hardware?
Through-post hardware passes through a prepared end-post opening. The selected model, post path, rear access and approved preparation must be confirmed before installation.
What is surface-mount cable railing hardware?
Surface-mount hardware attaches at the post face using the attachment arrangement specified for the selected wood- or metal-post model.
Which MR.RAIL Quick Lock families are through post?
MR-05, MR-15 and MR-25 are for stair or angled through-post runs. MR-06, MR-16 and MR-26 are for level or straight through-post runs.
Can the same surface-mount fitting be used on wood and metal posts?
MR.RAIL separates its standard wood-post and metal-post surface-mount Quick Lock families. Select the family identified for the actual post interface.
Does mounting style determine cable compatibility?
No. Cable construction and diameter are separate checks. Quick Lock uses matching 1×19 cable, while Swage accepts matching 1×19 or 7×7 cable.