AR-10 SBR Handguard Options

homerjays

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Minuteman
Feb 8, 2014
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I am securing parts to build a SBR upper for my Armalite AR-10. I'm going with a 12.5" barrel and have been looking for a handguard that will give me a mk18 type of look. However I can only find 7", 9" 13" and 15" rails. Anyone know of a rail in the 10" to shorter 12" range that will work?
 
SWS makes a 9.5" handguard.

^^ This! ^^

If memory serves, and its been a while since I've handled one, the Noveske Leonidas 12.5" N6 rifles/carbines used a slightly modified/upgraded SWS rail (it had sling attachment points built in, etc.). If you inquire direct with SWS, they may be able to hook you up with an exact replica or at least one close to it on a custom basis.

Also, what gas system length have you opted for? I only ask because the shorter barreled AR-10 series rifles have always been...well..."finicky" to put it MILDLY. Thus, Noveske developed their proprietary gas system length and components for use on their factory 12.5" Leonidas rifles, which are still held close to the vest by Noveske who hasn't, to my knowledge, released the specs for system length, gas port diameter, gas tube length, etc. unless you already have a Leonidas barrel/block/tube setup in hand.
 
Are you planning on covering up a low pro gas block then? Or are you using a FSB? 12.5 is tough as mk18 handguards are traditionally 1" shorter than the barrel's overall length. You might be able to get away with a 12" DD Lite Rail or either of the two Midwest Industries handguards - KeyMod or SS Gen 2. I believe they both make barrel nuts for the Armalite platform. The only way those wouldn't work out is if your planning on suppressing it. You wouldn't have enough clearance - 1/2" short - to mate the can properly....