"Clamp style" free-float hand guard vs threaded?

[bogie]

I recently purchased an M&P 10, which uses the DPMS low profile hand guard pattern. I want a clean hand guard that will accommodate a bipod, sling, and maybe a front BU sight. I won't need any other attachment points. However I would like at least a 12 inch rail that won't deflect when resting on logs, stumps, rocks, etc. Weight is a consideration since this rifle will be dragged through the bush. Limiting weight to a pound is ideal.

I have looked at several brands that have the clamp style attachment including Troy TRX and Midwest industries models. The apex model also appears to mount by clamping over factory barrel nut, then threading on the hand guard to the clamp.

I've read some fairly mixed reviews on the clamp style, particularly with slop and deflection that causes poor repeatability with front sight alignment. Has anybody had problems with this style? Are there recommendations out of the three I listed? Anything to avoid in particular? Should I avoid this style completely and go with one that threads on its own barrel nut? I'm up for other options but I'd like to stay under about $300.

I've found bits and pieces on this topic in other threads but not much comprehensive. I'd appreciate a link if I've missed it. Thanks.

[TheBelly]

For light aNd thread attach, I use the carbonarms made by MarkCO. There are three holes pre drilled in mine, and I just (carefully) added another hole and screwed in a magpul MOE rail section. It works very well.

[newracer]

I have a midwest industries clamp on style (mid-length) and it is very sturdy and secure.

[bogie]

Thanks for the feedback, gents. Anybody else want to weigh in?

Belly- I'm liking the weight of a carbon fiber system. Spr-ish cool factor as well. I'll give those a looksie.

newracer- there is a guy on the S&W forum that also used the Midwest industries, although a rifle length I think. He drilled and tapped the hand guard and barrel nut, and screwed them together for extra security. He basically said that was a must. Sounds like you've found no such need, which is great.

[nathan0259]

I have used both Troy and Apex they are good to go. I currently have the Apex on my M&P 10 in the 15" configuration and there is zero flex in it. I was a little hesitant when i received the Apex with there mounting system. It served me well hinting this year and plenty of range trips. After using it for a bit the mount is solid, feels good in the hand and keeps the weapon light. As for Troy I used the clamp on quad rail. It locks up tight looks good but does have a bit of play if you get a bi pod on the end of it. Either one would serve you well but Apex gets my vote. PM me if you need pics.

I have a front sight on mine and it is true as the day is long.

[bogie]

I have used both Troy and Apex they are good to go. I currently have the Apex on my M&P 10 in the 15" configuration and there is zero flex in it. I was a little hesitant when i received the Apex with there mounting system. It served me well hinting this year and plenty of range trips. After using it for a bit the mount is solid, feels good in the hand and keeps the weapon light. As for Troy I used the clamp on quad rail. It locks up tight looks good but does have a bit of play if you get a bi pod on the end of it. Either one would serve you well but Apex gets my vote. PM me if you need pics.

I have a front sight on mine and it is true as the day is long.


Thanks Nathan. So with the apex, you basically cut off the delta ring and mount the clamp thingy to the factory barrel nut, the mount the hand guard to the clamp?

so I'll be running a bipod sometimes. Have you tried one on your apex and looked for flex?

[nathan0259]

Pm sent about pics. Yes you remove the delta ring, mount the two piece clamp and then mount the hand guard to the clamp.... Its easier than I make it sound. I have run a bit pod and there has been no flex.

[20X11]

I use Troy Alpha rails and have never had a deflection issue. That being said, I just mounted a Head Down Provectus rail on my brothers AR. I was very impressed with how solid it is. It uses a proprietary barrel nut and the rail bolts to it with 8 bolts.

[Skully]

I have had problems with OE barrel nut mounted rails deflecting. If the barrel nut is slightly out of spec (small) it has caused me issues, fixed by buying a heavy duty steel nut and worked like a charm. TROY Rails on an AR10 I believe still use the old mounting on it's own barrel nut???

Lightweight barrels will deflect no matter what, nothing you can do about that. Heck my wife's AR with a Diamond Head Versa T rail which is a solid mounted rail on its own barrel nut still has barrel deflection ever so slightly, but again that is due to the lighter barrel, never had a problem with a Heavy Barrels, 308 barrel should be pretty heavy.