Best free float based off of attachment method?

[ray1970]

Just curious what you guys think about the subject. Seems every handguard has things I like and things I don't like about the way they attach to the rifle.

Which make/model do you think has the best attachment method and why?

Thanks.

[bogie]

My gut tells me that a rail should thread on to the barrel nut. But, I just got an apex rail, which mounts to a "clamshell clamp" placed directly on the factory barrel nut. It's very stiff and light, and it's the 15" length model. So now I'm thinking if it's designed right, no worries with the clamp type method. It's the best aluminum rail I've seen personally just due to the light weight, low profile, and stiffness. Time and more abuse might change my opinion.

My initial worry with the clamp type was based on some complaints that troy rails and MI rails could have some wobble on the clamping device, which would deflect when using a bipod and cause front sights to rise. Those reviews don't seem to reflect most peoples opinions, I just didn't want to chance it.

the carbon fiber rails are really nice too. Maybe on my next rifle....

[ray1970]

Besides the friction of tightening the clamshell thingy, is there anything to keep it from rotating on the barrel nut?

[bogie]

No I believe you said it, it's just the clamping force that prevents rotation. There is a decent amount of clamping area where the surfaces mate. The picture shows that it extends even over the teeth on the barrel nut. I think if you rotated the installed rail with say an oil filter wrench, the barrel nut would move before the rail would break free and rotate. It is very tight.

The only improvement I could see would be to machine dimples on the clamp that would interlock with the barrel nut teeth. But then all nuts might not fit the rail. Mine was designed to work on the standard DPmS style barrel nut.

(Of course you would also have the special anti rotation gas tube device to prevent rotation!)

[ray1970]

Thanks, bogie. That answers my question. And the picture was very helpful too.

[bogie]

If you're interested in the apex and want to see one let me know. Another forum member turned me onto this rail.

[ray1970]

Thanks. I've seen them on line but not in person. I might take you up on that offer.

[usmctarzan]

I like the Troy rails, no extra parts needed. Just slip it over the barrel nut @2 o clock, then twist left to 12 o clock and tighten down the screws. I've got the Troy/ VTAC on my rifle


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[Delfuego]

Geissele rails are pretty freakin' slick.

[Samurai]

YHM Diamond Quad rail is rock solid and I actually really like the YHM SLR too, but it is a clamp on similar to what bogie posted, except the nut is heavily knurled, I dont see it spinning any time soon.