hand gaurds

[van7559]

do I really need free floating, or are standard drop in gonna do the job? Please school me

[BPTactical]

do I really need free floating, or are standard drop in gonna do the job? Please school me

I would say it depends on what the anticipated use of said guards is. If you are just putting on a foregrip or light then a one piece is not necessary. It won't matter if you get a bit of movement out of the rails. Just get a decent made "Drop In" set.
On the other hand if you are mounting an optic on it you want it as solid as possible or it won't hold zero. Then you NEED a one piece or at the least a very well made two piece that securely locks on the barrel nut.
Cost will be comparable either way.
A floater is cheaper to purchase but are best installed by a Smith.
A two piece is more expensive but are usually able to be installed by the owner.


Class dismissed, go enjoy recess

[SideShow Bob]

If you go with a one piece, have BPTactical install it, he can do it while you wait, very quick and professional. And he wont over charge you.
Did a great job on mine.
Just cover your eyes and plug your ears when he takes out the BIG hammers and power tools... Just kidding about the power tools. Oh yeah and about the big hammers too.

[Hoser]

What are you using it for?

If its accuracy related, than a free float tube will help.

If not, all they do is look cool.

[van7559]

Its an optics ready cabine, and I was gonna mount the optics on the reciever the rail will simply be for a fore grip, and light. I was looking at troy industries, and knights armamint, possibly midwest industries. I want it to be tight fitting though, I don't want any slop

[Hoser]

I have a Knights on my 14.5 SBR and it is pretty tight.

But if you want tight/solid, you are going to have to get a non-drop in. I recommend PRI and LaRue.

I can help you install it. I have all the tools. They dont take long to knock out.

[van7559]

thanks hoser, when I get some I will pm you, and see if we can't get them installed.

[BadShot]

Yup, what everyone has said.. LaRue is what I believe to be the gold standard quickly followed by Daniel Defense and Troy. Look at the weight as you bolt on these pieces. It adds up quick. If you're going for simple set ups like, optic, BUIS, light and sling, then you might consider something that isn't railed all the way, but rather gives you the option to add/remove or just reposition rail segments. PRI and Troy not to mention VLTOR all have excellent quality and rock solid designs.

You could always ask the RAR guys for an appointment and drop over there and check out the options they'll have on hand.