Introduction
The world of the AR-15 rifle is considered one of fixed customization, the place fans can tailor their firearm to their actual wants and preferences. Among the many hottest modifications is swapping out the handguard. However with so many choices obtainable, deciding on the suitable handguard generally is a problem. That is very true when contemplating barrel size, the place the suitable alternative can considerably affect each the performance and the aesthetics of your rifle. When you’re capturing a 16-inch barrel, understanding handguard size is essential. This information will stroll you thru all the pieces it’s essential to know to make the proper choice on your AR-15.
One of many first issues to understand is the basic objective of a handguard. Past merely trying good, the handguard serves a number of very important roles. It protects the shooter’s fingers from the warmth generated by the barrel, significantly throughout prolonged firing periods. It additionally gives a safe platform for mounting varied equipment, like vertical grips, weapon lights, laser sights, and bipods. Moreover, the handguard enhances the rifle’s ergonomics, giving the shooter a extra comfy and managed grip. Selecting the best handguard size is subsequently important to reaching all these advantages.
Understanding the 16″ Barrel and Handguard Size
Understanding how handguard lengths correspond to barrel lengths is a place to begin. We’re specializing in the 16-inch barrel on this context. You will usually hear discussions about handguard sizes, so right here’s a fast overview of what to anticipate. Many handguards are referred to by their total size. Widespread handguard lengths embody:
- Brief choices: Sometimes across the 7-inch to 9-inch vary.
- Mid-length choices: Usually 10-inch to 12-inch.
- Longer choices: Often within the 13-inch to 15-inch vary.
Why is the suitable match so essential? An ill-fitting handguard can create a number of issues. A handguard that’s too quick may expose the fuel block and fuel tube, doubtlessly inflicting malfunctions or injury. A handguard that’s too lengthy could intrude with the muzzle gadget, or may require modifications to the fuel block. Past perform, the handguard impacts the general feel and look of your rifle. It impacts how equipment might be mounted. A rigorously chosen handguard will mix seamlessly together with your construct, making a smooth, balanced, and efficient firearm.
Measuring for Handguard Compatibility
The method of figuring out the suitable handguard size begins with correct measurement. A number of parts in your rifle will affect the optimum handguard dimension. You will have to think about your fuel block, fuel system, and any muzzle units you intend on utilizing.
The place of the fuel block is a vital issue. Gasoline blocks are available in varied sizes and shapes, and their location on the barrel impacts how a lot house is offered for a handguard. Low-profile fuel blocks supply the best flexibility, as they sit flush with the barrel and take up minimal house, permitting for the longest attainable handguard. Nevertheless, in case your rifle has a standard fastened entrance sight publish, this can take up house and thus the utmost handguard size will probably be constrained. The fuel block have to be taken into consideration when measuring for compatibility.
When choosing your handguard, you may pursue considered one of a number of size methods. The primary choice includes a handguard that stops simply earlier than your fuel block. This creates a minimalist look and gives a compact really feel for dealing with. The second choice includes overlaying the fuel block totally. This usually means the handguard runs from the receiver to the muzzle. These handguards supply the longest accent rails. Contemplate the look that’s best for you.
For individuals who could also be planning to connect a suppressor or silencer down the road, your handguard alternative is essential. Suppressors usually lengthen past the tip of the barrel. It is advisable make sure the handguard does not intrude with the suppressor’s attachment or its total profile. Often, longer handguards require {that a} suppressor is totally recessed.
How do you measure to find out handguard dimension? The simplest method is to measure from the entrance of your receiver to the specified entrance fringe of the handguard. Be sure to account on your muzzle gadget. For rifles already utilizing a handguard, measure your present handguard to get a way of what appears and works for you.
Fashionable Handguard Lengths for 16″ Barrels
Let’s dive into some standard handguard choices that work with a 16-inch barrel:
13″ Handguards
Some shooters just like the 13-inch handguard. A 13-inch handguard gives a considerable quantity of actual property for mounting equipment, providing you with loads of house for grips, lights, and different important attachments. It additionally gives a extra ergonomic grip for a lot of shooters, making it simpler to manage the rifle. The longer handguard usually improves steadiness and dealing with. There are disadvantages to this method. A 13-inch handguard won’t totally cowl the fuel block relying on its dimension and profile. It may possibly additionally add some weight to the entrance finish of the rifle. Often, the 13-inch handguard is suitable with low-profile fuel blocks.
15″ Handguards
One other widespread alternative is the 15-inch handguard. This gives the utmost attainable house for equipment and is nice for shooters who wish to equip their rifle with a full complement of attachments. Many discover the aesthetics of an extended handguard pleasing, making a extra streamlined profile. This handguard is prone to totally cowl the fuel block and lengthen to the muzzle gadget. Nevertheless, a 15-inch handguard provides to the general weight of the rifle. You’ll in all probability want a low-profile fuel block to make this match. It may possibly additionally intrude with a muzzle gadget when you’re not cautious, so exact measuring is important.
10″-12″ Handguards
Handguards within the 10-inch to 12-inch vary supply a pleasant steadiness between dimension and performance. They offer you adequate house for equipment with out including extreme bulk or weight. They’re typically an excellent all-around alternative for many capturing wants. These choices work properly with a broad vary of fuel block configurations.
7″-9″ Handguards
For a extra compact construct, take into account handguards within the 7-inch to 9-inch vary. These are light-weight and superb for shooters who prioritize maneuverability and a smaller total profile. They might not supply loads of house for equipment, so you’ll want to hold this in thoughts.
Components to Contemplate When Selecting a Handguard
The type and profile of the handguard will even affect your choice. Some handguards are designed to be slim and smooth, providing a streamlined feel and look. Others are bulkier, offering extra floor space for gripping and accent mounting. The kind of materials will even have an effect on your alternative.
Within the course of of choosing the proper handguard, keep in mind that different components matter.
Gasoline System
Cautious choice relies on your fuel system. AR-15 rifles make the most of totally different fuel system lengths: carbine, mid-length, and rifle-length. Remember to select a handguard that’s suitable together with your fuel system. This can make sure the fuel tube capabilities accurately, stopping malfunctions.
Muzzle System Compatibility
Verify the muzzle gadget. A muzzle gadget, resembling a flash hider, compensator, or suppressor adapter, sits on the finish of your barrel. The diameter and size of your chosen muzzle gadget will have an effect on how a lot house is offered for the handguard. Some handguards are designed to accommodate sure muzzle units. Be sure there may be sufficient clearance.
Mounting System
Contemplate the mounting system utilized by the handguard. Widespread mounting techniques embody M-LOK, KeyMod, and Picatinny rails. M-LOK and KeyMod supply modularity, permitting you to connect equipment to any level alongside the handguard. Picatinny rails present a extra inflexible and established system for mounting equipment.
Weight
Weight is one other essential consideration. A lighter handguard will assist hold your rifle’s total weight down, enhancing its maneuverability and decreasing fatigue throughout prolonged use. Heavier handguards could supply elevated sturdiness or a extra strong really feel.
Funds
Funds can also be a consideration. Handguards vary broadly in worth, relying on supplies, options, and model. Set a practical funds earlier than you begin purchasing. This can slender your choices and stop you from overspending.
Aesthetics
The ultimate factor to think about is aesthetics. Select a handguard that matches your private type and enhances the opposite elements of your rifle. Do you want a smooth and minimalist look, or do you like a extra tactical and rugged look? The visible attraction is simply as essential as performance.
Set up and Finest Practices
As soon as you’ve got chosen your handguard, set up is usually simple, however requires some care. First, detach your previous handguard. Often this requires eradicating the fuel tube and barrel nut. Then, set up your new handguard. Tighten any screws or bolts, and reassemble the remainder of your rifle. Search out guides if wanted.
Earlier than you begin capturing, test-fire the rifle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the suitable handguard on your 16-inch barrel is a crucial step in customizing your AR-15 rifle. By understanding the totally different handguard lengths, the components that affect your alternative, and the set up course of, you may create a rifle that completely meets your wants. Take your time, do your analysis, and select a handguard that gives the most effective steadiness of efficiency, performance, and aesthetics on your particular use case. Begin by measuring your rifle after which exploring the choices obtainable to you.
Keep in mind, a well-chosen handguard is not only an adjunct; it is an integral part that may dramatically enhance your capturing expertise.
