Free Float Handguard

[CowboyBart]

What makes a handguard "free float"??
I have a carbine and I would like to put a free float handguard on it that has a top rail on it. I shopped at Brownell's and was shocked at the prices ($150-$350) for a f@*king handguard!!!
How do these mount to make them float?

 

[Outsydlooknin75]

Re: Free Float Handguard

They mount to the barrel nut and do not touch the barrel in any way. Thats what makes then free floating. Some require a specific nut for installation, some require just a regular barrel nut.

 

[krg648]

Re: Free Float Handguard

Look at the vtac rails. easy to install and are free float with a low price tag.

 

[Cesiumsponge]

Re: Free Float Handguard

$150-350 is a bargain. I just started getting into the bolt gun world and I'd kill for AR prices over bolt gun prices.

If you don't plan to mount anything but a front sight on the rail, get a slick tube like the Samson Evolution. Running quad rail is pointless unless you're going to be using that real estate because its heavier and harsh on your hands. You can add panels to cover it but it ends up costing more, adding weight, and increasing girth.

 

[Ultraman550]

Re: Free Float Handguard

^^^^+1 on the Samson Evolution. Its a great tube, very very light and looks great. I agree with not needing all of that rail space. It's inexpensive as is Midwest Industries.

 

[hicapacity25]

Re: Free Float Handguard

+ 1 on v-tac easy to instal and looks good for a vented tube and can add all the rails as needed!

 

[aberbaseball7]

Re: Free Float Handguard

+1 on the Samson Evolution

http://www.samson-mfg.com/ar-15_html/product/Evolution-9.html

 

[338Federal]

Re: Free Float Handguard

Troy also makes some nice slim tubular handguards with a full upper rail. Some of the lightest from what i've read by those using them. Plus they come with a couple small bit of the detachable pic rail which others dont always do. Heard enough good about them that there 308 TRX 13.8 is going on my current build.

 

[aviumvenator]

Re: Free Float Handguard

Barnes Precision has a unique rail that has smooth bottom and sides with about 2” of picitinny on both ends. I have a Troy but it is a hassle to put the rail pieces on plus adds 4 more parts for each one added. I have both and they both have their merits.

http://www.usamade-ar15parts.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PSFFRSULTRALITE