M&P AR-15 Different Handguard...

[1BadSmith]

Took it in on trade, don't mind it except for the ***** handguard...any ideas? Kinda like the metal ones, but also like cheap! Can that front mini rail thing go away too? Might look nice for pic rail to extend down handguard??

 

[minconrevo]

The convenient thing about the GI Spec AR-15's is that the multiplicity of other parts WILL fit. About the only thing to look out for is GI vs. Commercial butt stocks. If a fixed A2 style front sight is on there it can be replaced with a low profile gas block. Now open your catalogs and charge ahead!

On the front handguard you have a choice to make: plain GI style, GI with Pitcatiny 1913 rail, M-Lok and Key Mod.

There is a simple special tool to remove handguards if there is a fixed A2 in stock. I suggest buy the tool and save considerable aggravation. The free float option (no fixed A2 sight) takes a more sophisticated tool.

Regardless don't go too cheap and definitely don't make your AR too heavy to tote about.

 

[mscampbell2734]

Pics would help but it sounds like you have an Optic Ready Carbine, basic round handguards, flat top receiver and gas block.

The issue with trying to get your gas block rail to line up with a metal handguard rail is brand and tolerance. It would be hard to find a perfect, gapless match.

Replacing the current gas block is fairly straight forward if you know what your doing, which from your post, and I'm not trying to be an arse, you don't, which means a trip to a smith.

If you go with a low profile gas block you open yourself to unlimited possibilities. You can go with a replacement metal rail that would reach all the way to the muzzle if you want.

If you keep the current black and just want to go with handguards the simpliest would be Magpul OEM handguards. Or possible metal drop in quad rails.
MOE(R) M-LOK(R) Hand Guard, Carbine-Length – AR15/M4
AR-15 Quad Rail Handguard - Carbine | Drop-In

Again just be aware the quad rail may need to modified at the front to clear your current rail.

 

[WR Moore]

If you intend any serious usage of the gun, you want a gas block that's pinned in place. I used to do 3 gun and I've seen several cases where set screw secured gas blocks loosened and blew forward during firing. The results are real interesting if you're spectating.

 

[shep854]

I'm totally content with a Magpul MOE handguard. All I need is a bit of Pic rail for a light and sling attach.

 

[The Mighty S&W]

A lot of people go with Magpul MOE for an economical way to get MLOK comparability. I personally am old school and still like the look/feel/universal nature of the older metal quad rails. A decent two piece drop in version can be had for $50.00 or so and works just fine.

 

[shep854]

A lot of people go with Magpul MOE for an economical way to get MLOK comparability. I personally am old school and still like the look/feel/universal nature of the older metal quad rails. A decent two piece drop in version can be had for $50.00 or so and works just fine.

Indeed! I often consider trying other handguards, especially the quad rails, but that Magpul just feels *soooo* good in my hands.