AR Handguard Opinions

[Smith]

I'm getting my new 6.8 upper this week and I need some handguards. Let's face it, I'm not going to war (not yet at least:D) so I don't need something super fancy and I like a more comfortable smooth type forearm. I'm looking at something like the Viking Tactics VTAC or YHM customizable. I will probably only mount a grip and not much else, but I would like to be able to down the road if I got the itch. I'd also like a free float. My other thoughts are Troy's MRF/TRX or YHM Diamond series. Looking for specter length on a carbine system. Any suggestions or opinions?

[TGO David]

I had a YHM Phantom on my Bushmaster. The handguard was probably more solid than the rifle itself.

[-boatman-]

I have never seen any like those but I like them. I might consider that over a quad rail if I could see one up close.

[Rightwinger]

Go with the YHM. Very customizable with the add on rails. Very good grip with them. Don't forget the endcap that screws in the threaded end.

I had a low profile gas block on a 458 HBAR and only used one small rail for the bipod connection.

[Smith]

Yeah, that's kinda what I'm looking for. I will probably use a bi-pod and a forward grip (not together) and a top rail for the scope mount and front sight. I do like the look of the VTAC better than the YHM but I don't know how solid they are. I've had the YHM stuff before and it's solid.

[poak]

Yeah, that's kinda what I'm looking for. I will probably use a bi-pod and a forward grip (not together) and a top rail for the scope mount and front sight. I do like the look of the VTAC better than the YHM but I don't know how solid they are. I've had the YHM stuff before and it's solid.

Yeah, while I do slightly like the look of the VTAC better, I'm sure the YHM is cheaper (though I haven't done a price check). I've got a YHM middy quad rail on my AR, and I love it. Definitely rock solid. I've bought a few other YHM bits and pieces as well. I feel like they deliver excellent quality at a very acceptable price.

[Smith]

Yeah, while I do slightly like the look of the VTAC better, I'm sure the YHM is cheaper (though I haven't done a price check). I've got a YHM middy quad rail on my AR, and I love it. Definitely rock solid. I've bought a few other YHM bits and pieces as well. I feel like they deliver excellent quality at a very acceptable price.

So far price difference is about $20 (VTAC more).

[Rightwinger]

I never liked the interface between the upper and the barrel nut on the VTAC's. Looked like a vacuum hose or something. Just me.

Either is a great step up from the classic plastic forearms with heatsheilds.