handguard

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Unique ARs Handguard

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  When you think of AR handguards, you typically don’t think about exotic designs. Unique ARs is here to change your mind about that. They make AR handguards with intricate designs in, and on, them. Unique ARs will also do custom designs. What makes the Unique ARs designs even better, is that they are also very functional.

  Unique ARs sent me one of their stock design handguards. The name of this particular one is the “Filigree.” A Filigree’s definition is: “An intricate, delicate, or fanciful ornamentation”. This handguard is exactly that. I like to think of it as an old school scroll pattern. It is pretty cool looking, especially when color is added to it.

  This particular handguard is 15” long and free floats the barrel. Unique ARs does make shorter versions, but I do like longer handguards. It is a tube style handguard, with the Filigree pattern milled in. There are no rails or anything else on this “original” series handguard. However, on the top and bottom, there are threaded holes to mount Unique ARs picatinny rail sections, in case you need a section of rail. Unique ARs also offers a “slim” style of handguard, it has a full length top rail, if that’s what you are looking for.

  Installation of the handguard is pretty normal. So I won’t go into it too much. One will need the normal AR tools to do it. Plus you will need a low profile gas block to fit inside the tube. The inside diameter of the handguard is 1.75” and the outside is 2”’. This particular handguard weighs in at 15.9 ounces complete with the barrel nut and mounting hardware. So it’s not heavy, but not super light either.

  When you order a standard option handguard from Unique ARs, you can also order some add ons. The add ons include semi-custom cerakote in almost any color. Either one or two different color options. The Filigree handguard was sent with a single cerakote option. So the outside of the handguard is black, and inside the scroll work is lime green, or as I like to say, zombie green. It looks really good! I actually mounted it on my Spikes Zombie Lower rifle. The cerakote work, in the Filigree, really shows off the expert ability of the cerakoter’s over at Unique ARs. There is some pretty fine detail work that goes into it.

  Now for how it actually performed. I was really surprised at how grippy the handguard was. I can get a fantastic grip on it because of all the machine work. I thought it would be smooth, but no, it’s not. Because of the texture, this handguard works really well when moving from target to target. It is almost like having built in grip panels. The little bit of extra weight seemed to make the rifle feel more stable than it was when it had a carbon fiber one on it. This handguard makes the rifle look awesome.

  If you are in the market for something different, the Unique ARs handguard is it. With all the special designs and cerakote options, you will definitely have a “unique” AR. If you want something you designed, or just something not in their catalog, you can have it made by them. If you are building that true custom rifle, their handguard will make it “one of a kind”. As an added bonus, it actually will make the rifle perform better. Go check out Unique ARs, but I’ll warn you, it’ll probably end up costing you a few bucks.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Custom AR handguards

Target Market:

Those wanting a unique look to their AR

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Filigree Scroll pattern

  • 15” Free-float handguard

  • Made from 6061 T6 Aluminum

  • Inside diameter 1.75″

  • Exterior diameter 2″

  • Compatible with any mil spec AR-15 upper receiver or (DPMS Gen 1 Style) AR-10 upper

  • Mount accessories with Unique-ARs proprietary picatinny rail only

  • Weighs 15.9 ounces complete with barrel nut and hardware

  • Available in 9″, 12″, and 15″ lengths.

  • Custom cerakote available

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Too many to list

What others are saying?:

When I decided to build my first AR, I decided that it had to be different and not a typical build that I could just go grab off the shelf. I came across the Unique-ARs Freedom handguard and thought, “I have to have that on my build!”

When it came time to order I discovered that I could choose colors! But not just one color, two colors! After a bit of time sorting through the hundreds of colors, I found a color that would match my build perfectly. I placed the order and it arrived a week earlier than expected. It is the perfect finishing piece and definitely an eye catcher! Thanks a ton!

Joshua M. at Unique AR’s

Link to other reviews:

Gear-Report  

Price point:

MSRP = $285.00

Start at $185.00

Retail = $285 plus cerakote

I need it now! Availability:

Unique ARs

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Awesome designs

  • Fully Custom handguards available

  • Cut out patterns give a very good grip

  • Custom Cerakote colors

Cons:

  • Must use Unique’s picatinny rails if wanting a mounting platform

  • A little heavier than some other handguards

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research 

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Expo Arms Patrol Series AR Upper

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  Expo Arms has recently gotten into the AR-15 upper receiver market. They have a few options for pistols, SBR’s, and standard AR configurations. This particular upper is their Patrol series with a 16” barrel and A2 flash hider. If you didn’t know, Expo Arms is the in-house brand for Primary Arms and is sold exclusively through them.

  The Expo Arms Patrol Series is an everyday use AR-15 barrelled upper receiver. These do not come with a bolt carrier group (BCG) or charging handle. However when you order the upper, Primary Arms gives some drop down menus with discounted add ons, such as a BCG. The Patrol Series comes with a bunch of good specs: A 5.56 chamber, 1:7 twist nitrided 4150 cmv barrel, mid-length gas system, A2 flash hider, T-marked upper receiver, and a 15” M-Lok handguard.

  Barrels are an important part of any AR system. On 16” barrels, like this one, I like mid-length gas systems. They are smoother feeling and put less wear on components then a carbine length gas system. Being that the barrel is also salt bath nitrided, it will have a good lifespan and keep corrosion away. Expo Arms uses a SOCOM profile on the barrel. I like the profile as it gives strength and consistency without being heavy. Of course the muzzle is threaded and comes with an A2 flash hider installed. The barrel consistently shoots under 1 MOA for me with 69 grain match rounds. 

  Expo Arms uses their own T-marked upper receiver. This is a standard forged version made from 7075-T6 aluminum. It has a round style forward assist and a standard mil-spec port door. The whole upper is nicely machined and anodized. 

  To cover the barrel, and give you something to hold onto, is the 15” M-Lok handguard. This is a very nice, useful, no frills handguard. It runs a full top rail that is not sharp. The sharp parts of the rail have been deburred slightly. Along the other portions of the handguard are M-Lok slots. These M-Lok slots are every 45 degrees around the handguard, not just the standard of every 90. It’s a clamp on style handguard, but also has some anti-rotation tabs to keep it from rotating. I’ve never had a problem with these style handguards rotating on me, but the tabs are a nice addition. I really liked the Expo Arms handguard, I’d even consider it as a stand alone item. 

  If you’re looking for a good quality AR upper, the Expo Arms Patrol series might just be it. It has a lot of nice features for the price. In fact, I am still amazed at the 0.75” group I shot with it. Definitely go check out the Expo Arms series of stuff over at Primary Arms. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality 5.56 AR Upper receiver at a fair price

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a 16” AR upper

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 7075-T6 forged aluminum MIL-SPEC upper

  • 5.56 NATO chamber

  • T-Marked

  • 16" Patrol Series Nitride barrel

  • 41V50 Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel barrel

  • SOCOM barrel contour 

  • Mid-Length Gas System

  • 1:7 Twist Rate

  • 15" Expo Arms Patrol Series M-LOK Handguard

  • A2 Flash Hider

  • No BCG or Charging handle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Various

What others are saying?:

Nothing as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $349.99

Retail = Check Primary Arms for sales

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Nitride Barrel

  • T-Marked upper

  • M-Lok handguard

  • Full top rail

  • Accurate

Cons:

  • Doesn’t come with BCG or CH (options are available)

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Nero Review

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Dark Hour Defense MAGNESIUM DARKLITE handguard

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  As one may have heard, I was building out a lightweight AR pistol and was in need of a lightweight handguard. Along comes Dark Hour Defense with their Magnesium Darklite M-Lok handguard. If you haven’t heard of Dark Hour Defense, they are a sister company of V Seven Weapon Systems. Dark Hour Defense is more of the “not as fancy” line, but still using the same technology and quality of V Seven. This makes the Dark Hour products more cost effective for the end user. 

  I decided on the Darklite handguard in the 9.2” length. I chose this length because I was using a 10.5” pencil barrel. Essentially, I didn’t want the handguard to extend over the muzzle, but also wanted it to cover the gas block. The 9.2” Darklite turned out to be just perfect. Dark Hour also has a 7.1” as well as sizes out to 18”. Outside diameter on them is 1.5”s wide and 1.97”s tall. The 1.97” height is due to the full length top rail. Inside diameter is 1.3” wide and 1.55” tall. 

  The Darklite handguard is super light! The 9.2” comes in weighing 4.23 ounces, on my scale, without any hardware. The barrel nut adds in another 1.13 ounces. Add in some mounting screws and the total weight is 5.64 ounces. I will mention that the weight listings on the Dark Hour Defense website are really close to the actual weight I measured. To get this lightweight handguard, Dark Hour uses an aluminum magnesium alloy that is 30% lighter than standard 6061 aluminum. It appears to be just as strong, if not stronger. Remember, this handguard also has a full top picatinny rail. The barrel nut is made from 7068 aluminum, which is harder and stronger than 7075 aluminum, but weighs less than steel by a good margin. All one needs to really know is that these are super light and strong.

  The Darklite handguard is pretty normal in other aspects except one. As noted before, it is running a full top picatinny rail. The M-Lok slots are at 3,6, & 9 o’clock. As of now, it is only available with M-Lok, because that’s the standard in my opinion. Instead of anodizing, Dark Hour uses a plasma deposition coating that gives a “tough ceramic-like coating with superior wear resistance compared to anodizing.” I’ll agree, this E-Cote finish, as they call it, is super tough. I haven’t even scratched it. Also, I had a QD point mounted to it and when I removed it, you couldn’t even tell it was on the handguard. It didn’t even leave a chip or indent. I kind of wish the Darklite had a QD point built in. That way I could connect a sling without adding the weight of the QD mount. The black color of this E-Cote finish matches the rifles anodizing very well and I like the durability of it.

  Installation of the Darklite handguard is pretty normal also. Install the barrel nut with the supplied wrench. YES, it includes a wrench! This is one of my favorite things. Every other manufacture, please do like Dark Hour Defense and include a barrel nut wrench with your handguards. The barrel nut may or may not need shims, mine was on the tight side without them, but still in specifications for torque. When installing the handguard tube, you may need to tap it on with a rubber mallet, or heat it up slightly. It is a nice snug fit. I just tapped it on and it worked fine. Dark Hour also includes a locator pin, so if your upper has this provision , you can use it for added rotational stability. I didn’t use the pin and have not had any problems with the handguard rotating. Lastly, install the 6 torx screws to spec, and off to the range you go.

  As usual, I’ve been trying to use the Darklite as much as possible. I really like it, but I like slim handguards, and at 1.5”s, it is just perfect. The Darkilite is a no frills, super lightweight handguard. They smoothed it all out and put angles and radiuses where they needed to be, like on the muzzle end of the handguard. The top rail portion is even pretty smooth, which is not an easy task with all those slot cuts. The price won’t kill your wallet either. At $195 for the 9.2”, it’s a great deal. Yes, longer ones cost more, but they are still a reasonable option for what you are getting. 

  The Dark Hour Defense Magnesium Darklite handguard is well worth checking out. You are definitely getting a quality lightweight handguard at a reasonable price, at least in the lightweight product category. I think Dark Hour Defense will be doing some more nice stuff in the future. Definitely keep your eye on them for cost effective lightweight products. You can check them out at https://darkhourdefense.com/

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Ultra Lightweight AR15 handguard

Target Market:

Those wanting a strong, lightweight handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Aluminum Magnesium alloy

  • E-cote black finish

  • Length: 9.2"

  • Width: 1.5"

  • Height: 1.97"

  • Weight: 4.2 oz

  • ID of 1.3"(left to right) & 1.55" (top to bottom for gas block clearance)

  • 7068 Aluminum barrel nut

  • Includes barrel nut wrench

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Various lengths

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publication

Link to other reviews:

Same as above

Price point:

MSRP = $195.00

Retail = $189.15 at Optics Planet

I need it now! Availability:

Dark Hour Defense

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super light

  • Full top rail

  • All sharp edges are deburred

  • E-cote finish

  • Small Diameter

Cons:

  • No QD mounting points

Score:  9.00 Amazing

Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

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Timber Creek Enforcer Build KIt

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  By now, everyone knows that you can do just about anything to an AR style rifle. Timber Creek Outdoors can definitely help you with that. They have their Enforcer Build Kit. The Enforcer Kit is a complete upgrade kit for your modern sporting rifle. Besides basic black, the kit comes in a variety of colors, some anodized and some Cerakoted.

  To be a little different, I asked for the Enforcer kit in purple. The purple is one of the anodized colors that Timber Creek offers. I like the look of anodizing, as it has that “high gloss” look. This purple does not disappoint. The anodizing is spot on and all the different parts match. Matching anodizing, from batch to batch, is not super easy. But Timber Creek pulled it off.

  Down in the FNB section, it shows what all comes with the Enforcer kit and it is a lot. I’ll go over most of the parts individually, at least the important ones. All of the parts come in one nice box. Small parts are in bags, in the buffer tube. On the back of the box is essentially a parts break down, and where those parts go. I also put together a list of what else is needed to complete a full rifle. Some of these parts can also be purchased from Timber Creek, like the barrel and castle nut, these additional parts are as follows:

  • Castle nut

  • Buffer and recoil spring

  • Trigger

  • Bolt catch

  • Mag catch

  • Upper/lower

  • Buffer retaining pin & spring

  • Barrel 

  • Stock

  • Gas tube

  First up I’ll start with the lower receiver small parts. The extended mag release has a nice little downward curve to it and isn’t too large. I really liked it’s function as it isn’t any higher than the standard mag release, it just sits back closer to the trigger finger. TC’s oversize trigger guard is wider also. It’s pretty oversize, so much so that I think a Sasquatch could get his finger in there. Then there are the take down pins. They add color, but are undersized in the kit I received. They wobble around and make the upper to lower fit, fit loosely. I had standard pins in this kit before, and they didn’t have these problems.  Maybe not a small part, but it attaches to the lower, is the mil-spec 6 position buffer tube. It does not, however, come with a castle nut. A QD endplate is also included.

  Also included for the lower is an ambi safety selector. This safety is reversible, meaning that it is either 45° or 90°. I was happy to see this, as I like 45° safeties, so that is how it was installed. Two selectors are provided, one is about standard length, the other one is shorter. This is pretty standard for ambi-selectors. They attach to the safety selector piece with some allen head screws, I did use a little Loctite 242 when installing them. I wasn’t sure how I was going to like the shape of the safety, it is a kind of tear drop shape with serrations . After using it, I do really like it, especially the serrations. These serrations let my thumb know that it is in contact with the safety.

  The Timber Creek pistol grip is one of their oldest products. As with all of the Enforcer kit parts, it is aluminum and CNC machined. They skelontonized the grip to save weight. It has a finger rest/stop at the heel to help prevent your hand from sliding off. There is also a beavertail for comfort. Plus some grooves on the front to aid with grip. In my opinion, the grip is a little on the slick side. It is very comfortable, but needs a little more texture to help me grip it. 

  Next we move on to the upper receiver. Only two small parts here, the dust cover and forward assist. The dust cover adds a nice contrast to the upper. The one supplied doesn’t like to stay closed. If you bump the rifle too hard, installing a magazine for instance, the door flips open. The forward assist works as expected. It has checkering on the face of it for extra grip, just in case you have to use it.

  Timber Creek’s Enforcer charging handle is a work of art. It has ball bearings inside it, thus giving the handle arms super smooth actuation. The oversize handles stick out a bunch on either side, making it truly ambidextrous. By making the handles so large, one hand operation is extremely easy. Even if one were to mount a large scope, they would have easy access to the charging handle. The handles are slightly curved forward with grooves on the front face. Pretty much eliminating your hand from slipping off during use. I personally would have liked Timber Creek’s small charging handle to be in the kit, as this one is just a tiny bit too big for my liking. It is, however, an excellent charging handle.

  Probably one of the most notable parts in the kit, is the 15” Ultralight Enforcer handguard. This handguard is super skeletonized and weighs nothing. If you pick it up by itself, without the barrel nut, it is like picking up air. The complete handguard assembly weighs something like 7.6 ounces with the barrel nut! Since it is the ultralight version, the handguard has a short rail at the front and back instead of running all the way across the top. I really like these style of handguards, as I never use the middle of the pic rail anyhow. There is a unique “Timber Creek” curve at the nose of the handguard. This curve is useful to keep brush and stuff from getting caught in it out in the field. Plus, it looks pretty good also. Now, if you need to attach anything else, the handguard has M-Lok slots running along the top, sides, and bottom. There are also QD holes for attaching slings and such. These are the good ones that have anti-rotation cuts every 45°. There are five total. One on each side, at the front and rear of the handguard. Then there is one on the bottom rear, just in front of the clamping system. Timber Creek uses a clamp system, with some extra set screws, to hold the handguard on. There are also wings, that extend over the upper receiver, to help keep it from rotating. I think the clamp system works just great, so the probably didn’t need the wings. But, extra insurance is always a good thing. For as light as this handguard is, there is less flex in it compared to other lightweight handguards. At least that’s my experience with the same length ones that I have used. The Enforcer lightweight handguard is well worth the price of admission.

  To round out the kit, Timber Creek throws in their muzzle brake and gas block. The gas block is low profile to fit under the handguard. It is the two set screws on the bottom type and about an inch long. It looks goog, and works great. The “Heart Breaker” muzzle brake is a two chamber style, with two holes on the top to reduce muzzle climb. The chambers are heart shaped, hence the name. I was hesitant about this brake at first. Yes, the brake proved me wrong. It works way better than I had ever imagined. It is really loud, but that was expected. My daughter even mentioned the lack of recoil while using it. Instead of a crush washer or shims, the Heart Breaker comes with a locking jam nut. Think of it as a nice little bonus in the Enforcer kit.

  Now that all the parts are pretty much covered, here’s my thoughts. If you value quality parts, these are top notch. Timber Creek did an awesome job with most of the stuff in the kit. I really enjoy shooting this rifle, it handles so nice with the lightweight parts. The rifle in the pictures weighs in at 6 lbs 14 ounces with the red dot. But, it uses everyday standard internals and a 16” heavy profile barrel (lightweight barrel would save roughly 8 ounces). The handguard and ambi-safety are probably my 2 favorites. They just work great.

  The Timber Creek Enforcer Build Kit is a great upgrade. If you are looking to build a new rifle, add color, or just upgrading your old one, the Enforcer kit is pretty much a worthwhile option. One might think it is a little pricey, but you are getting quality parts. These parts would definitely cost you more if you were to buy them individually. Definitely go check out Timber Creek Outdoors and all of their stuff.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Complete accessory kit for AR style rifles

Target Market:

AR builders, those wanting to accessorize their rifles

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 15" Ultra-Light Handguard – MLOK

  • Enforcer Oversized Ambidextrous Charging Handle

  • Forward Assist

  • Billet Dust Cover

  • Enforcer AR Pistol Grip

  • Oversized Trigger Guard

  • Ambidextrous Safety

  • Extended Magazine Release

  • Takedown Pins

  • QD End Plate

  • Buffer Tube

  • Low Profile .750 Gas Block

  • .223 Heat Breaker muzzle brake

  • Pins, etc included for supplied parts

  • Made is USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black, Blue, Red, and Orange anodized

Burnt Bronze, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green, and Tungsten Cerakote

What others are saying?:

Nothing found on the “kit”, just individual parts

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found on the “kit”, just individual parts reviews

Price point:

MSRP = $749.99

Retail = $599.99 at Palmetto State Armory

I need it now! Availability:

Timber Creek, Black Bag Resources (call and mention Gun&Gear Review podcast), or Palmetto

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Color, Color, and more Color

  • 45 or 90 degree safety

  • Handguard

  • Lightweight

  • Jam nut for compensator included

  • Made in USA

Cons:

  • Takedown pins slightly too small

  • Port door doesn’t stay closed

  • Castle nut not included

Score: 8.00 Great

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Favorite Link:   Gun & Gear Cult


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JL Billet Angled Free Float Handguard

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  JL Billet has been making accessories for the AR market for some time. As their name indicates, most of their parts are machined from billets of metal. A billet is basically just a raw chunk of metal. I was in need of a handguard for my pistol build. They had just what I was looking for in their 7.3” angled M-Lok handguard.

  The design of the JL Billet angled handguard is pretty straightforward. The front of the handguard is angled rearward, thus the name. There is a full picatinny rail along the top. It has 3 full M-Lok slots on the sides and 2 full M-Lok slots on the bottom. The 2 bottom M-Lok’s are not usable to me, because the base of the gas block is too close to allow the M-lok hardware to be installed. Yes, the base of the gas block clears the handguard, but not by much. On the 45 degrees are triangle shaped lightening holes. JL Billet also put lightening slots under the picatinny rail. 

  JL Billet also machined in quick disconnects for QD slings. On the rear of the handguard, closest to the receiver, is where they are located. One on each side. They are not just the, “hey let’s drill a hole in the handguard” stye, instead they are the real raised kind. One of the key features on the QD mounts, is how they are non-rotating. Once the QD is installed in the cup, it only rotates slightly, not all the way around. There are 4 basic positions to install the QD in. I loved this for the simple fact that it is more like a fixed sling point, but still rotates slightly.

  Construction of the handguard is a little non-standard. Instead of using an extrusion and then machining it, JL billet machines the handguard out of a single piece of 6061-T6 aluminum. It produces a really nice handguard, but adds to the cost. They then anodize it black. They will also sell the handguards “in the white,” or non-anodized. If you know that you are going to have the build Cerakoted, this is a nice option.

  Installation of the JL Billet handguard is pretty straight forward. The barrel nut uses an 1-⅛” wrench, which they sell for $15 if you don’t have one. The barrel nut is aluminum and you torque it down to 45 ft/lbs. You don’t have to index the barrel nut or use shims. The aluminum helps make the assembly lighter. I didn’t have any problems screwing on the barrel nut and torquing it down. Then just slide the handguard on. Install the little metal key and clamp screws. The key indexes in the barrel nut. Line the rail up with the receiver and then tighten the clamp screws to 90 in/lbs. See, easy. JL billet doesn’t use any type of anti-rotational “wings” or timed barrel nuts. The clamping force from the precision machined barrel nut, and inside handguard are sufficient. This also allows the handguard to be used on “non-standard” style billet receivers.

  Like previously mentioned, I installed this on an AR pistol. Having the barrel free floated is almost the standard today and I like that aspect of the JL Billet handguard. The angled front looks nice and keeps the front of the firearm from catching on stuff. It’s a short handguard, so flex is not a problem. At 1.55” outside diameter, it fits my hand nicely, but I tend toward smaller diameter handguards anyhow. Everything about this handguard works well.

  JL Billet did a great job with their handguards. I have seen some of their other stuff, and it looks nice also. If you are looking at handguards, or any other AR part, go give JL Billet a look.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Free Float M-Lok AR handguard

Target Market:

AR builders or those wanting a M-Lok handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Continuous top rail

  • 6061-T6 aluminum

  • Hard Coat Anodized

  • M-Lok slots

  • 2 QD mounts

  • 2 5-slot M-Lok Picatinny rails included

  • 1.36” Inside Diameter

  • 4.9 ounces - handguard only

  • Approximately 8 ounce complete

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different lengths

What others are saying?:

Paul P. at jlbillet.com 5/5 stars

Great finishing touch

The light weight, design, and easy installation make this a great handguard for my 9mm build.

Link to other reviews:

The Firearm Blog

Price point:

MSRP = $154.95

Retail = $148.46 on Optics Planet

I need it now! Availability:

JL Billet or Optics Planet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • M-Lok

  • Angled front

  • No timing of barrel nut

  • QD sockets

  • Billet Machined

Cons:

  • Aluminum barrel nut

  • Bottom M-Lok slots are useless on this build

Score: 8.00 Great

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Favorite Link:   Gun and Gear Cult






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Odin Works Ragna Forend

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  Our friends over at Odin Works have another forend on the market. It is called the Ragna. When I was looking for a 15” handguard, I remembered that they had come out with the Ragna at SHOT 2018. When I contacted Odin, they sent it right out for a review. I received the M-Lok version, but a Key-mod version is also available.

  As with the Odin Works O2 lite handguard I reviewed earlier, the Ragna is also really light. When one first picks up the package that the Ragna comes in, you really can’t believe there is a 15.5” handguard in it. It weighs 10.35 ounces complete with the barrel nut and hardware. One reason it is so lightweight comes from a large quantity of organic shaped cut outs. These cutouts give it a unique look also. 

   Mounting up the Ragna is pretty easy also. If you have installed a barrel on an AR, then you can do this. Take your old handguard and barrel nut off first, if it isn’t a new build. Put some of the supplied Vibra-tite on the upper receiver threads. Take the supplied barrel nut and tighten it to 50 ft-lbs. Install the gas block and tube. Then slide the forend on. Line up the top rail with your receiver and tighten the two set screws. Then tighten the three clamp screws. You now have a new Ragna forend installed. I really liked how easy this handguard installed. The top rail lined up perfectly with the upper receiver’s rail.

  As with most handguards, the Ragna is made from aluminum. They use 6061-T6 aluminum and then hard coat anodize it black. This gives it the same durability and finish as the upper receiver it is installed on. It also has 2 full length M-lok slots at 3 & 9 O’clock. These M-lok slots are out at the front of the handguard. M-lok slots also run the full span of the 6 O’clock position (or as I call it, the bottom). It has no top M-lok slots because the Ragna uses a full length picatinny rail. I personally have a love/hate relationship with full top rails. I like the looks of them, but feel like I only need a little rail section at the front and back. 

  The Ragna is also loaded with other features. The first one that comes to mind is the quick connects at the front and rear. Three of them are in the front at 3, 6, &9 O’clock, and two in the rear on either side. Being a long handguard, it has a lot of flex out at the muzzle end. This flex really only causes a problem if you sling up and are using some sort of sight on the front of the rail. I say “some sort’ because it could be an iron front sight, a laser, or something else. The rearward sloped angle, at the front of the handguard, is also very well thought out. It doesn’t have any sharp edges or angles for things to get caught up on. Most low profile gas blocks will fit inside the rail. It has an inside diameter of 1.35 inches, so other accessories might fit underneath also, especially if you are one to like longer than barrel length handguards. 

  I had expected a good performing handguard from Odin Works, and the Ragna did not let me down. The diameter isn’t too large or too small for me. I was able to get a good grasp on the rifle. The odd cut out shapes also dig into your hand to allow for a good non-slip grip, but not so much as to be uncomfortable. Most people don’t need attachment slots down the full length of the forend, and I am one of those. So I like only having the 2 M-lok slots at 3 & 6 O’clock, should I choose to mount up a light or other accessories.

  Odin Works has done a nice job with the Ragna. I really like the looks and functionality. Having to not index a barrel nut is a huge plus also. If you’re in the market for a new forend, check out the Ragna. It is available in 12.5”, 15.5”, and 17.5” versions.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

15.5” lightweight handguard

Target Market:

Those wanting a lightweight freefloat handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Free floating

  • Type 2 Hard Anodized

  • One piece barrel nut that is Black Nitride coated

  • All mounting hardware included

  • Continuous top rail

  • Made from 6061-T6 aluminum

  • Inside Diameter: 1.35"

  • Outside Diameter: 2.02" Tall by 1.52"

  • Key-MOD or M-LOK available at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock

  • All .750 ODIN Works gas blocks fit inside 

  • Weighs just 10.35oz installed (including barrel nut)

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

12.5” and 17.5”

What others are saying?:

Ryan H. @ Odinworks.com 5/5 stars

Clean fit

Fits clean and looks amazing. Couldn’t be happier

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $179.00

I need it now! Availability:

Odin Works or Black Bag Resources

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Really lightweight

  • Good feel in the hands

  • M-lok slots

  • Top rail

  • Front/Rear quick connects for sling swivels

  • Made in USA

Cons:

  • Flexes

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:   Axelson Tactical



, ,

Guntec 15" Compression Handguard

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 Guntec Usa sent me their new compression M-Lok handguard for review. They were also kind enough to send an extra one that we gave away on the podcast. This particular handguard is a 15” free float and anodized black. Guntec has been making AR accessories in the US for decades.

 I noticed a few new things about this compression handguard. Guntec put some QD mounts at the rear of the handguard. In my opinion, this is a great asset. It also came with 1 QD swivel. This handguard also has M-Lok slots all the way down both sides as well as the bottom. That was one of my complaints with their Air-Lite that I reviewed some time ago. This one also has a full length top picatinny rail. As well as diamond cuts throughout to reduce weight. The black anodizing is also a little dull looking, more of a matte finish as compared to a gloss one. It doesn’t scratch off or anything, so there is no need to worry about it.

You can see the slight misalignment of the rail to the receiver

 Installation on the compression handguard is super easy. All you really need to do is install the barrel nut and tighten to manufacturers specifications (standard AR15 barrel nut torque). There is no need to index the barrel nut. Slide the tube on. Line up the top rail with the receiver rail. Then tighten down the 4 clamp screws. I put some medium threadlocker on these 4 screws, but it probably isn’t needed. That is really all there was to it. One slight problem with this particular handguard, is that the rail on the handguard sits a little bit lower than the receiver’s rail. Not enough that flip up iron sights won’t zero, but enough to notice.

 At first I was a little hesitant about the compression style of handguard. But after crashing it up against some 2x4 barricades, I’m not worried about it twisting or not lining up. The clamping force around the barrel nut seems more than enough to hold everything lined up. I really liked the feel of the handguard. It is small enough for me to get my hand around. This makes it very easy to drive the muzzle from target to target. It is just under 2” from the top of the rail to the bottom of the handguard and 1.5” outside diameter everywhere else. The inside diameter measures 1.34”, so don’t expect to put a suppressor under it. And you will definitely need a low profile gas block. The whole combination of screws, barrel nut, and handguard came in weighing 10 ounces on my scale. So pretty lightweight.

 As mentioned earlier, I like how this handguard feels. It does however get warm after 3 or 4 mag dumps. That’s pretty normal given the diameter and how close it is to the gas block. As with a lot of long handguards, there is some flex out at the end by the barrel. Not as much as I have seen on others, but a little. This leads into the location of the QD mount. Because they are located by the barrel nut, any force put on them doesn’t appear to flex the handguard any. Guntec also sent some rubber M-lok plugs with the handguard. These plugs just kind of push into any unused slots and give a rubbery grip to the handguard.

 If you’re interested in some quality, value priced AR parts, go check out Guntec USA. This particular handguard is pretty decent. It feels good in the hand, looks decent, and won’t break the bank. Plus, if it’s not your style, they probably have something that is.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

15" Compression handguard for modern sporting rifles

Target Market:

Users wanting to upgrade to a 15" handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • T6 Aluminum Body
  • Proprietary Lightweight Aluminum Barrel Nut Included
  • Total Weight Including Barrel Nut Is 10 oz.
  • Triangle / Diamond Cuts Throughout Handguard to Reduce Weight
  • Rail System Slides Over Barrel Nut , And Is clamped on with 4 clamp screws
  • Monolithic Top Rail
  • 15" Length
  • Internal Diameter: 1.34"
  • Outside Diameter: 1.50"
  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

10" and 12"

What others are saying?:

Nothing found

Link to other reviews:

Rusty Reviews on Facebook

Price point:

MSRP = $150 approximately (Not on website at writing)

I need it now! Availability:

Guntec USA

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • M-Lok

  • QD points

  • QD swivel included

  • Easy Installation

  • Made in USA

  • Rubber M-Lok covers included

  • Small Diameter

Cons:

  • Rail doesn't line up with receiver

  • Dull anodizing

  • Lack of instructions

Score: 6.5 Okay

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Favorite Link:   AR15 Podcast

,

Brigand Arms Forearm Review

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Written by: Michael C.

I’ve always been a function over style type person.  When I first saw the Brigand Arms handguard I thought it was stylish, but not very functional.  It looked like under heavy firing it would get hot because it was so wide open the heat from the barrel would radiate to the shooters hand.  

When I took the Tactical Performance Center Multi-gun class we were told to bring a wrap or glove because the rifle forearm would probably get very hot due to the large amount of fast shooting we would we be conducting.  During the three-day course, the forearm on my Armalite 3-gun rifle did get warm but not so much that it bothered me.  After this experience I thought the Brigand Arms would really get too hot to handle.

The lack of a rails didn’t bother me as those are only needed on a “tactical” rifle to mount lights, lasers, grips and bottle openers.  This is not a rail that one would choose for that application.  It just looked cool.

After hearing a positive review of the Brigand Arms handguard on the We Like Shooting podcast and the AR-15 podcast on the Firearms Radio Network  I thought I would give it a try. But first I had to see if Brownell’s carried the Brigand Arms handguard.  I’ve been a Brownell’s customer long before I started reviewing gear.  The customer service has always been excellent, and they have the best website in the business.  Has a bonus Brownell’s has the Forever Guarantee - no questions asked return policy.  So, if I don’t like it or decide I don’t want it, I can return it. And has an Edge member I don’t pay for shipping!  Including returns!

When the package arrived, I thought the box was empty because it was so light.  I opened the box and there was my new woven carbon fiber handguard!  I ordered the fifteen inch “Blade” version.  I think the Blade version really adds to the unique design of the handguard design.  The Blade is angled at the front and because of the mounting system you can run the angle however you like: long on the bottom, short on the top; long on the top, short on the bottom; or anywhere along the 360 degree radius.   

Unpackaging the forearm I was reminded of an issue with woven carbon fiber – loose fibers.  I caught a loose fiber in my hand, like a wood splinter.  I took a break to remove the foreign body from my finger and then put on my welding gloves.  I ran the gloves over the handguard to remove any loose fibers I imagine you could do the same thing with a shop rag, just make sure to throw the shop rag away when you are done.  This is not a negative against the Brigand Arms handguard, it’s common to all woven carbon fiber products, just part of the required pre-installation: wipe down the handguard.  Please note I have taken the rifle out five times since I mounted the hand guard with no more splinter issues.  There are three parts in the package: handguard, barrel nut and cinch nut.  The barrel nut is aluminum and appears to be similar to the YHM barrel nut, and the cinch nut appears to be similar to the YHM jam nut.  This is smart outsourcing by Brigand Arms, use off the shelf items to cut cost.  This is a smart move by Brigand Arms to lower the price of the handguard.  And since this is one of the pricier handguards on the market anything that can be used to lower costs while maintaining quality is a smart move.  Like Scrooge McDuck said, “Don’t work harder, work smarter.”

To start the installation I put a dap of release agent on the barrel extension on my custom order 18 inch, light profile, rifle gas system, 1-7 barrel I from Columbia River Arms and inserted it into a Vltor MUR upper receiver.  I really like the Vltor because I have yet to find one out of spec.  They look like billet, but they are forged and a little thicker than a mil-spec upper.  Next, I put a dap of LocTite 242 (blue) onto the threads of the receiver and tightened the barrel nut to the recommended torque of 34 – 40 foot pounds.  Next I installed the Brownell’s black nitride gas tube mounted to a JP Enterprise  AR-15 2 piece detent adjustable low profile gas block. The gas tube runs through the barrel nut so it’s important to make sure the barrel nut is aligned properly.  If the tube doesn’t fit through the nut keep tightening it a little bit at a time until it freely aligns with the gas key on the bolt carrier group.

Installing the handguard was very straight forward.  Like installing a YHM handguard.  In fact, Brigand Arms recommends on their FAQ web page to use the YHM handguard wrench to install the handguard.  Alternative ways are to tighten the cinch nut is with a spanner wrench, strap wrench or give the cinch nut a tap with a flat head screw driver.   I had a spanner wrench on hand and I wrapped the areas that might mare the finish with duct tape.  I was unable to get adequate torque on the cinch nut to keep the handguard form turning.  I made a quick trip to my local gun store Cobra Tactical (one of my sponsors) and asked Eric if he had the YHM handguard wrench.  He was kind enough to loan me the tool, so I could finish the build.

With the upper assembled I headed out to the range.  One of the first thing I noticed was how easy it was to access the adjustable gas block.  All too often the handguard must be removed to access the adjustments to the gas block, then reinstalled and you hope you have it adjusted properly.  

The test and evaluation for this upper was actually for five new parts: Brigand Arms handguard, Columbia Arms Barrel, UM Tactical RAGE muzzle brake, JP Enterprise low mass bolt carrier group and JP Enterprise silent captured spring recoil system, and Geisslle charging handle.  After getting everything tuned up (I will cover these items in a later review) I laid the handguard on a sand bag to check the accuracy of the build.  Awesome is all I can say regarding the accuracy of this build.  I was pleasantly surprised at how solid the handguard was on the rest.  No flexing or torquing while shooting off the sand bag. The sand bags at the range are the heavy plastic and I was surprised to see no melting or deformation from heat of the barrel to the bag.  Inspecting the handguard, I could not see and deformation or wear marks on it.

Next test came the test for what I thought would be the problem, heat radiating from the barrel through the hand guard.  I did a series of speed and transition drills without pause.  I finished with two 30 round magazine dumps.  Surprisingly the handguard never became too hot to handle or uncomfortable to hold.  Another surprise was how quickly the barrel cooled.  Just has the Brigand Arms stated in their interviews on the Firearms Radio Network because of the lack of surface area on the handguard the barrel cools quickly.

I’ve been able to take the rifle to the range five more times and even practiced dumping the rifle into a USPSA box and 3 Gun Nation barrel.  No damage to the handguard.  The handguard is a little larger in diameter than some other handguards but still fits well in the hand. The woven pattern of the hand guard makes for a good gripping surface. I practiced holding the handguard in different positions, all were secure, and it was easy to control the weapon.  

Brigand Arms makes three models of the woven carbon fiber handguard: Blade, Edge and Atlas.  The Edge is like the Blade but with a flat front.  The Atlas is like the Edge but adds a four short picatinny rails at 3, 6, 9 and 12 positions at the front of the handguard.   If you want to add rails Brigand Arms handguards, they are prepared for you.  You can purchase rail sections and add them wherever you want on the handguard.  Brigand Arms also sells M-Loc panels you can add anywhere to the handguard.

Overall, I am very pleased with the Brigand Arms handguard. It is performing better than I imagined it would.  The handguards are expensive, $259.00 to $414.00, but they are worth it.  Brigand Arms has added AR-10 DPMS-Hi style handguards to their shop.  I will be buying one of these for a light weight AR-.308 build.  I’m expecting the same outstanding performance from the .308 models.

Brigand Arms are innovators and I look forward to seeing other products they bring to market.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEW – 8 KEY POINTS


CLAIM TO FAME:

Lightest handguard available

TARGET MARKET:

Modern Sporting Rifle users who want a light weight unique handguard.

FNBS (FEATURES & BENEFITS OF THIS PRODUCT):

  • Lightweight

  • Easy installation

  • Unique look

  • Adds in barrel cooling

  • Off the shelf mounting hardware

  • Ease of access to adjustable gas blocks

WHAT OTHER AESTHETIC OPTIONS OR FINISHES ARE AVAILABLE?

  • Three different styles

  • Four different lengths

  • Available for AR15 and AR10 (DPMS)

  • Bare carbon fiber

  • Handguard can be Cerakoted

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?:

Coolest and most interesting product at SHOT Show

LINK TO OTHER REVIEWS:

Brigand Arms website - Reviews

PRICE POINT:

MSRP:  $269.00 - $414.00

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILTY:

Brownells or Brigand Arms

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Easy to install

  • Lightweight

  • Feels good in the grasp

  • Looks wicked cool

Cons:

  • Expensive

  • No continuous rail on top

 

SCORE:  9.0 EXCELLENT

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, ,

2A Armament Aethon Rail

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  Since everyone has an AR15, or at least should, aftermarket accessories for them have become the norm. That brings us to 2A Armament. They produce a variety of products, including complete rifles, for the AR15. 2A sent me one of their 7" Aethon rail handguards with M-Lok slots.

  The Aethon rail has some interesting design features. The first one I noticed was the scalloped picatinny rail sections. Of course this helps to reduce weight, but also looks very nice. The Aethon features a full top rail, that lines up with the receiver nicely. Under the top picatinny rail there are lightening holes, which also help vent heat away from the barrel. At 90°, 180°, and 270° are the flats with the M-Lok slots. Since this is a 7" handguard, there are only 2 slots per side. In front and behind the M-Lok slots are holes for QD mounts! Between the flats on the handguard, 2A has reduced more weight by milling out an angled half circle style design. Also the top picatinny rail has "T" markings on it.

  Installation of the Aethon rail is pretty straight forward. I'll run you through the simple method. After taking off the old parts. Just install the 2A Armament titanium barrel nut per specified torque, line up one of the cut-outs for the gas tube and the barrel is tightened back on. I used my armorers wrench and it worked just fine. Now here is one of the niceties of the Aethon. To install the handguard, you just slide it over the barrel nut and align the top rail with your receiver. Then you just tighten down the four angled set screws, 2 per side, and your done. The way the barrel nut is designed, along with the angled set screws, is what makes this so easy. A warning, do not over tighten the set screws as they are going into aluminum and could possibly strip out fairly easy. I just put blue threadlocker on them and called it a day.

  The Aethon rail saw plenty of use. Partly because the rifle I installed it on, wasn't working properly. This had zero to do with the Aethon. I will say that because of the small internal diameter of the Aethon, it does get very warm when shooting quickly, so much that I wouldn't recommend it for a registered full auto, unless you always wear gloves. Other than that, the Aethon performed great. I liked the smaller diameter of the Aethon, it allowed me to get a good grip around it to help reduce muzzle jump. If you have really large hands, you could probably wrap them all the way around this handguard. Because this is a 7" handguard, it is very sturdy with no flex whatsoever. There are also no sharp edges anywhere, even where the set screws lock the handguard on. My only complaint is that it only measures 6.7" long instead of 7", leaving a little gap between the end of the handguard and the fixed front sight post. 

  2A Armament has done an excellent job with the Aethon handguard. It is a deep black anodizing, so much that it is much darker and shinier than my receiver. It is fairly lightweight and installs easily. If your in the market for some nice AR parts, go take a look at 2A Armament.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Lightweight AR15 handguard

Target Market:

Users wanting a lighter weight, or M-Lok handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Made in U.S.A
  • U.S.A. sourced 6AL-4V Titanium barrel nut
  • M-LOK mounting solution
  • Free floating design
  • QD mounts on both ends
  • 1.3” Internal Diameter
  • 6.7" length
  • "T" markings
  • Weighs 6.2 oz's complete

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

10", 12", and 15" lengths

What others are saying?:

None Found

Link to other reviews:

None Found

Price point:

MSRP = $179.00

Retail = $170.00 at Optics Planet

I need it now! Availability:

2A Armament or Optics Planet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • M-Lok

  • Easy Installation

  • Dark Anodizing

  • Small overall diameter

  • Full top rail

  • QD mounts

Cons:

  • Not a full 7" in length

  • Gets hot

Score: 8.0 Great

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Favorite Link:   Poly Gun Mods

 


 

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