Free float handguard for the ar-15

[levsmith]

I'm looking for a lightweight free float handguard for my ar15 for a reasonable cost, say under 100 bones. I dont want anything fancy, basically just a tube that is as light as possible. I like the look of the hogue's but they seem a little heavy at 14 oz for the rifle length. Anyone have any recommendations? Thanks

 

[esheato]

YHM, Midwest Industries, UTG would be where I start looking.

Have you thought about a straight carbon fiber tube? Not sure on the price of that one though...

 

[levsmith]

Thanks esheato, I'll check into those brands. I have looked at a few carbon fiber tubes but the ones I did look at all have to be epoxied to the barrel nut and I'm not sure how much I like the idea of that. Maybe I'm worried about nothing though.

 

[CuriousG]

Not sure what you consider reasonable in terms of cost, but the Troy alpha battle rail fits your criteria and is probably on the lower end of the price spectrum for a quality lightweight FF.

 

[sleepyone]

Daniel Defense Omega Rail 7.0 is the best one IMHO. It does not require any modification to the front gas block. It has a thin side profile to fit your hands better, and it has the typical DD quality. Mounts in a few minutes. However, it cost about $239.00 or more. I found mine on eBay for $239 including S/H. I think the rail system is a very integral part of your AR and a one-time cost should not be the deciding factor in your purchase.

 

[LiquidTension]

How much gunsmithing do you want to do? The DD Omega mentioned above mounts to a standard barrel nut with the delta ring still on. The Troy Alpha has to have the FSB removed and the delta ring removed but mounts to the standard barrel nut. Other companies (and other selections from those same companies) require both the FSB to be removed and use a proprietary barrel nut.

MI rails are pretty light, but they mount the same way the old Troy TRX rails did. Troy stopped using that attachment method for a reason I'm guessing, though I've got one and it seems solid. I've got a YHM free float (spectre length and a carbine length actually) that I'd be happy to part with for cheap if you don't mind pulling the FSB and removing the delta ring and barrel nut.

 

[justice06rr]

Check this website. Lots of options under $100 w/ free shipping

www.ar15depot.com

 

[Matt Dillon]

I got one from Windham for $75.00. It is a lightweight aluminum tube that they mounted for me.

 

[cowhrse1]

The Troy rails are reasonable. However, I do have one of the UTG Pro quad rails and they are great quality at a low price point. Plus all their Pro line of stuff has been moved over here and has "MADE IN THE USA" proudly marked on it!

 

[Walkalong]

The Hogue. is ptetty light compared to most. It's simple, easy to install. You'll need a tool with extended screws/pins, like this one from DPMS. This one from DPMS with the short pins will not work. Either that or a good strap wrench.

I have two ARs with them. It sure feels light anyway.