Firearm accessory protector

A protector assembly for mounting a firearm accessory on a firearm having an elongated barrel extending longitudinally between a forward end having a muzzle and a rearward end opposite the forward end and a rail mount including an elongated rail extending parallel to the barrel between a front end and a rear end, the protector assembly comprising:

• a base having a rail opening sized and shaped for receiving at least an outer portion of the elongated rail and an accessory opening sized and shaped for receiving and attaching the firearm accessory to the base;
• and
• a shield attached to the base, said shield being longer than the firearm accessory and being sized and shaped to at least partially envelope the firearm accessory without contacting the firearm accessory when the firearm accessory is attached to the base to protect the firearm accessory from damage due to contact between the firearm accessory and other objects during use, transport, or storage of the firearm.