The AR is split into two basic platforms: The AR-15, and the AR-10 or LR-308, which is the larger. You can get a guard that goes all the way to the muzzle, if you prefer.Ī: Mostly, yes. You'll probably want a guard long enough to at least cover the gas tube and gas block to protect them from damage. If you choose a free-float handguard and your AR's equipped with a low-profile gas block that fits underneath the guard, you can install virtually any length you want. If you prefer the military look of a drop-in/two-piece guard, you'll need to buy one that matches the length of your AR's gas system, since it connects to the gas block.
Q: How do I determine the best handguard length?Ī: That depends on the type of handguard you want to utilize.
While they may be less "robust", they're still tough enough for combat conditions (we'll review military testing below) and they improve accuracy, especially at greater distances. These handguards are typically much lighter and more aesthetic. It only attaches at one point on the rifle or pistol, and that's via the barrel nut, which is secured to the front of the upper receiver:īecause the handguard is only attached via the barrel nut, it does not contact the barrel itself or the gas block. That's where free-float handguards come in.Ī: A free-float handguard quite literally "floats" over the barrel and gas block. The drawback is that such a handguard, when affixed directly to the gas block and barrel, can reduce accuracy. This handguard is considered the most "rugged." It would take an exceptional amount of force - likely enough to bend the barrel itself - to dislodge this handguard. These types of handguards typically have a quad Picatinny rail for attachments, or they'll be smooth, provided only as a place to grip with your non-firing hand, like the one below. As the name implies, a two-piece handguard comprises two halves, which meet together at the barrel nut and front sight bus / gas block, clamping together around the barrel and gas tube.
Q: What is a drop-in or two-piece handguard?Ī: This is the original handguard design found on commercial AR-15s, adopted directly from service-issued M4s and M16s. Is M-LOK better than KeyMod? Does a Picatinny rail still have its place on a modern AR-15? What's the difference between a drop-in handguard and a free-float unit? Let's clear it all up. With so many handguards available on the AR parts market, picking the right one can get a little confusing.
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