Free floating rails, handguards, and milspec 5.56mm

[Jadecristal]

I've seen some advocate free-floating rail systems to replace stock handguards on the AR15 platform, along with mention of avoiding snap or slide-on style rails like the Surefire M73 (http://www.surefire.com/maxexp/main/co_disp/displ/prrfnbr/1129/sesent/00). What are the pros and cons for each?

I also have a similar question with regard to handguards, if someone would answer/comment upon that topic as well. I'm pretty settled on a Bushmaster, but have heard some assail the "cheap" handguards on them, and mention that Colt has "nicer" ones. Colt also has "nicer" prices, too, and besides - I don't like their attitude.

Finally, after ordering some XM193 and getting told it was "backordered" after the fact, where can I get good (not the "for practice only" XM193PD type) M193 - preferably Q3131A or XM193? Some recommend ammoman.com. If someone has a similar type from a well-known ammo manufacturer, I'd look at that too. I want something that is somewhat multi-purpose - I can store it for a long time if needs be, and it's good for practice/plinking. Why? Because I'm a poor college student.

 

[Zak Smith]

A free float rail physically isolates the barrel which prevents it from deflecting due to pressure on the handguards.

For XM193, try Midway or Wideners.

 

[dmftoy1]

I use natchezss.com for my XM193 (stuff in 20 round boxes). If they're out of stock you just give them your email and they tell you whenit's available again. Don't dally though as I think the last batch was gone in about 18 hours. (People buying in multiple case lots. )

I would like to free float the handguards on my Bushy M4, but I'm not a good enough shot yet to have it make a difference. My next door neighbor just bought a Bushy Varmiteer (or something like that) and it's got the NM barrel and an aluminum free floated tube. I think it makes a significant difference in accuracy if you're using a bipod or resting it on bags with downward pressure. (just my .02)

Have a good one,
Dave

 

[Bufford t. Justice]

For a battle rifle (300 yds or less) I don't see free floating as necessary. For competition and ranges beyond 300 it's a must. Especially if you use a sling or bi-pod as the pressure applied to the barrel will tend to make your shots wander. My 16" free float rifle will outshoot my 20" all day long.

 

[YammyMonkey]

I noticed a cange in POI at a measly 25 yards when using the sling on a standard setup. IMO a FF handguard would be a good investment, especially if you're wanting to mount lights, forward mounted optics, bipod, vertical fore grip or use a sling for shooting.

My Bushy handguards look and work just fine, haven't compared them to a Colt, but no complaints as far as them being stock handguards.

IIRC, Sportsman's Guide is selling XM193PD, but it's not marked on the website as being PD so watch out for that.

 

[NMshooter]

A free float rail fore end is certainly neat, but not required.

While I like my LaRue 7.0 a Surefire M73 would have fulfilled my needs with a bit less effort to install.

The more you are concerned with precision the more useful free floating the barrel becomes.

I do like having rails, though, it is the cheapest way to solidly mount accessories. A vertical front grip and flashlight are nice things to have.

If you can experiment with other people's gear, do so, we all have our own preferences, and just because I like something does not mean you will find it useful.