Replacing handguard

[Rudolph]

I'm trying to decid on a rail system. I think I would like to get a solid instead of 2 piece.

My ? is, is this something I need to have installed by a gunsmith? I am planning to remove the front sight and go w/ a flip front sight.

[Roland-G23]

http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=4&t=226782

Its pretty simple, you just need some tools.

An action block, some roll-pin punches, armorer's wrench, etc.

[c4igrant]

Originally posted by Rudolph
I'm trying to decid on a rail system. I think I would like to get a solid instead of 2 piece.

My ? is, is this something I need to have installed by a gunsmith? I am planning to remove the front sight and go w/ a flip front sight.

When I try and help people get the best rail for their needs, I like to ask these questions:

1. Are you going to mount an optic or laser onto the rail?
2. Can you do the install of a 1 piece Free Float rail yourself? If not, are you willing to pay to have it done?


C4

www.GRTactical.ccom

[RMTactical]

You don't need a gunsmith to do this.

[harlenm]

You could always do a 2 piece free float. Then all you have to do is cut off the delta ring and clamp it on.

Unless you plan on putting an optic on it, just go with a 2 piece non free float. Take handguards off, put new ones in. Will be fine for lights, bipod, vertical grip, etc.

[1811guy2]

Troy industries makes an outstanding handguard that bolts onto the barrel nut and free floats the barrel. Just cut off the delta and snap rings, then bolt it on. It gives a continuous top rail, is solid as a rock, and because it is modular, it is easily removed for maintenence without special tools, removing the flash hider and front sight, etc. No need to remove the retaining plate behind the front sight, it will work as a dust cover with the handguard. It also comes with 3 TD rail covers. As an added bonus, if you ever pick up an M203 (or use one in the military), the bottom of the handguard is easily removed with a bullet tip, and leaves the top in place. Fit and finish is superb.