The Prepper Insider is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Performance enhancements. Greater versatility in a pinch. These are just a few reasons why the AR-15 handguard market has seen a surge in sales.
If you're curious about the sudden trend or you want to grab one for yourself, then don't worry: we've got a lot to talk about.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for AR-15 Handguards
- OUR TOP PICK: Aero Precision AR15 ATLAS S-ONE M-LOK Handguard
- RUNNER-UP: Leapers UTG PRO AR-15 Super Slim
- BEST AR-15 HANDGUARD FOR THE MONEY: Faxon Firearms Streamline Handguard
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Handguards
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
AR Handguard Types
You need to concern yourself with three main handguard types, each offering different benefits for AR-15s and other assault rifles.
What is an M-LOK Handguard?
M-LOK, or modular lock, is a rail-based interface. Many consider this to be a step-up from the MOE system. The way these are designed, you're able to take control of the negative space on your AR-15 for a tighter fit. M-LOK are the most sought-after handguard types for all assault rifles.
What is a Free Floating Handguard?
Sometimes simply referred to as floating handguards, these work by being held on by a single nut with no additional installation required. They're popular with new gun owners and modders alike. It's called floating because the handguard does not make actual contact with the barrel, leaving a small negative space.
What is a MOE Handguard?
This is the predecessor to the M-LOK handguard. Designed with flexibility and large size, this gives some of the most surface contacts for your hand to grip the gun barrel. These are large, somewhat easy to attach to your gun, and generally less expensive than other handguards.
How Do I Choose an AR-15 Handguard?
First thing's first: choose the handguard type that appears to be the most beneficial for you and your shooting style. Then take these factors into account.
- How Easily it Mounts: Is it a nice easy mount with no adapter plate necessary, or is it generally difficult to install? You can find this information in most handguards reviews (which we'll cover here as well).
- Ventilation: One reason that floating handguards are so popular is the ventilation it offers. The barrel heats up, and the handguard will heat up as well. Ventilation is important when you fire high amounts of ammo in a single sitting.
- Whatever it Mounts: Mounting accessories are a fantastic addition to any AR-15, so you need to ask yourself if your handguard is versatile enough to handle attachments or if it's a one-trick pony.
We all utilize our AR-15s differently. Based on what the grip looks like, how it's expected to feel, and if it's something that's appealing to you, your handguard preferences will differ from another shooter with the same loadout.
Review of the Best AR-15 Handguards
We know what to look for, but now it's time to see just what you're able to get. Keeping budgeting, versatility, and overall reliability in mind, these are the nine best AR-15 handguards on the market to service most AR-15 owner's needs.
Best Overall:
Aero Precision AR15 ATLAS S-ONE M-LOK Handguard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers agree that Aero Precision made this as ergonomically as possible, citing the holdover grip as being one of the most defining factors. Apart from the grip, Aero Precision made this handguard extremely lightweight despite its length, much to many buyers' surprise.
Why it Stands Out to Us
At this price, it's not even to lock-in an M-LOK handguard of this caliber. Aero Precision stood out because it genuinely seemed like they wanted to give as much value as they received without leaving the buyer feeling ripped off at the end. Aero Precision made a hybrid model between being lightweight and effective, and that's not easy to do.
Bottom Line
Aero Precision's Atlas handguard is worth the money. It saves you a bit (compared to other handguards), but it also reduces carry weight, which can be invaluable for new shooters and gun owners. It won the top spot on this list for a reason.
Runner-up:
Leapers UTG PRO AR-15 Super Slim
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Above all else, buyers compare Leapers UTG handguard to high-end, expensive rails that easily triple the cost of Leapers. Apart from buyers being shocked at the price, they frequently cite the attention to detail and machine finish yielding a more expensive quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This handguard features a special operation aesthetic with the slats at the end. Everything is made in the United States, and any time we can support American businesses and products, we do. Above everything else, the exceptional grip feels like you're becoming one with the gun instead of feeling your hands slip and slide around on a factory issue handguard—excellent attention to detail.
Bottom Line
The heat exhaust may be low, but so is the price. Leapers offers a serious bargain on this price, and while the installation process could be a bit faster, it's a solid choice for any AR-15 owner out there.
Best AR-15 Handguard for the Money:
Faxon Firearms Streamline Handguard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Faxon designed this to blend in with many upper and lower receivers for most AR-15s, which is what people initially love about this handguard. With zero-temperature transference and a lightweight build, buyers often enjoy the all-around benefit Faxon provides above their standard factory issue handguard.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This thing is massive, and to be frank, we just wanted to see how well it would do with this huge size. As it turns out, it was their design that caught our eyes and urged us to give them a shot; we're glad that we did. From the durable materials to the excellent heat ventilation, you get a blend of aesthetics and functionality at the same time.
Bottom Line
While there can be some restrictions with ordering, this handguard goes the distance and covers more of your gun barrel. While the cost can be a bit much for any new gun owner to justify, it's worth the money for what you get. It's more than just a handguard; it's an experience.
Best AR-15 Free Float Handguard:
Midwest Industries AR-15 Free Float 1-Piece
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
First and foremost, the price: it's a lot of material for the cost. Buyers enjoy the low profile gas block, as well as the versatility to use this on older AR and M16 models to swap out older handguards. Midwest Industries also provide excellent support and answer questions promptly according to most buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Midwest Industries was able to achieve something that most bigger brands only imagine by keeping the price extremely low while emulating high-end aesthetics and ventilation. The price stands out, but above that, the Type III hard coat anodized finish helps stave-off heat transference and looks fantastic at the same time. They could have gone with a cheaper finish material, but they kept it classy.
Bottom Line
You save money, and you sacrifice a small amount of your FOV to properly use this once it's been installed. Although installation can be a bit of a lengthy process, no matter what, it's worth the money.
Lightest AR-15 Handguard:
Brigand Arms Edge Handguard for AR 15
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
While some buyers report the price as being a bit steep for what you get, they all end up loving the Brigand Arms Edge Handguard. Thanks to zero heat transference, this works just as intended, and many users report that the lightweight build helps keep their gun weight down without compromising on quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Out of all the handguards we've viewed, the Brigand Arms Edge handguard has zero temperature transference. Even the best handguards will have some small amount, but thanks to the anodized coating and thick design, you would have to fire off hundreds of rounds as quickly as possible to even feel the heat through it. It's built stronger than most handguards on the market.
Bottom Line
The price is right, the power is there, and while it doesn't cover the full length of the barrel on every AR-15, it doesn't wobble or fall short in performance. The Edge Handguard can be hard to install, but the flip side of that is that it doesn't give out on you; it's sturdy like a rock.
Longest AR-15 Handguard:
V Seven AR-15 Hyper-Light Magnesium M-Lok Handguard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
It's lightweight as can be—the consensus is that this handguard is somehow rigid and stern despite appearing fragile and ultralight out of the box. Installation is simple thanks to the inclusive barrel nut and its easy design, which is why a lot of first-time gun owners report a quick installation process.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Have you ever heard of a ceramic-like coating on the outside of a handguard? Due to the plasma deposition process that the handguard goes through, you're getting a unique exterior. It's not the same as 6061 anodized aluminum, but it holds up just the same. Between the Hyper-Light technology and this unique handguard material, V Seven sticks out like a big sore pink thumb.
Bottom Line
Excellent quality, average price, and a unique experience. If you're used to the feeling of anodized aluminum, you are in for a shocker. There are plenty of sizes available to help you equip more than just your AR-15.
Best AR-15 Carbon Fiber Handguard:
Lancer Systems LCH5
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Some buyers had issues with the included barrel nut that came with the packaging. It appears as though Lancer has endured some issues in the past with their shipping but are quick to right any wrongs that might happen. Buyers enjoy the overall experience of the handguard, primarily rating the LCH5 as better than their factory issue handguard by a small margin.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Any time a handguard weighs next to nothing, it stands out. At just one pound, this carbon fiber handguard somehow manages to appear bulky, not soak up too much heat, and stand the test of time. Lancer made this handguard inexpensive in all sizes, saving you money, albeit it for a less-than-perfect material.
Bottom Line
Carbon fiber comes with its fair share of problems. It gets pretty dirty, it has less durability than anodized aluminum, but in Lancer's case, they made it work for them. These handguards save money in every single barrel length and end up feeling very grippy at the same time.
Best AR-15 Drop-In Handguard:
Midwest Industries Gen2 Two-Piece Drop-In Handguard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have come back after using the Gen2 handguard to report that even after firing hundreds of rounds at the range, there's no wobbling or wiggling. Midwest Industries holds up to the test. The only issue that many buyers reported is that there is no heat shield, and because this is a drop-in, you will feel some heat from that barrel.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These beasts look like much higher-end handguards than they are. Despite the price, they're made with a 6061 anodized aluminum body. We're not sure how Midwest Industries is making money with prices this low, but we'll take it. These full cover handguards make it look like you poured a ton of money into your AR-15.
Bottom Line
Looks high-end; costs next to nothing. If you can get past the government export restriction, you'll have one fantastic, durable handguard. A trade-off with the cost is that this does wiggle a bit until you find a good groove with it. It may require additional tightening.
Best AR-15 9-inch Handguard:
GUNTEC USA Ultra Lightweight Thin M-Lok System
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers discuss the inexpensive price point while citing the lightweight build and excellent installation process. GUNTEC isn't the most expensive brand out there, and while buyers enjoy those low price points, some report inconsistencies with machine finishing even if the handguard works as intended.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A lot of handguards fail to provide full Picatinny rails; you usually end up seeing partials instead. Providing that is huge and keeping the cost down was something we didn't expect, so our curiosity got the better of us. GUNTEC USA is a curious brand but proves to resist high levels of heat even after spending time at the firing range.
Bottom Line
We don't know what they're doing with pricing since some 15" handguards are cheaper than 12" handguards, but the product is good. T6 aluminum, full Picatinny, and an excellent grip to help you right your aim. A solid, inexpensive pick.
Comparison Overview
If you're not too keen on the different types of handguards and other systems, this quick rundown should show you exactly what you need to know about every one.
Barrel Shroud vs Handguard
A barrel shroud is not a handguard. There's a lot of confusion around this topic. A barrel shroud goes around a barrel's end, whereas a handguard will be aligned near the upper. Barrel shrouds are extensions of a gun; handguards are add-on features that should not extend beyond the tip of the barrel.
Magpul Handguard vs Quad Rail
Magpul handguards are also referred to as MOE handguards. Quad rails offer better flexibility for adding additional accessories onto your AR-15, whereas a MOE handguard isn't meant to be augmented. MOEs serve their purpose and nothing else.
Free Float Handguard vs Non-Free Float
Free float simply means that the handguard floats on the barrel, providing space between the handguard and barrel for ventilation. Barrels get hot, so free float handguards prevent that heat from being transferred to you and burning your hand. Non-free float handguards are just factory issue handguards that come standard on some AR-15s.
How to Remove AR-15 Handguard Without Tool
It isn't as complicated as it used to be. Just about any AR-15 is capable of having the handguard detach without requiring a single tool.
- Push the delta ring back. This may require lubrication if your delta ring is particularly stiff.
- While pulling the delta ring back with just one hand or holding it in place with one hand, use your free hand to grasp the handguard.
- Pull the handguard opposite of the delta ring. It should unhinge from here and begin to come off. Release the delta ring only after the handguard has come off completely.
You can specifically purchase delta tools to pull the ring back, although some folks just use a pair of pliers. In any case, you should be able to do it on your own without the intervention of tools if your AR-15 is relatively new.
How to Install a Free Float Handguard
Installing a free-float handguard is simple. It requires a few basic tools and an understanding of your AR-15's anatomy.
- Completely remove your upper receiver. Use your forearm removal tool to simplify this step.
- Remove the flash cage from the tip of the gun.
- Remove the lower receiver, gas tube, bolt, and operating handle.
- Remove pins from the gun frame.
- If you haven't already, remove the gas block collar from the barrel.
- Pull back delta rings to remove the factory issue handguard (like we talked about in the previous section).
- Place a new handguard system over the barrel (it goes between the gun and the gas block collar).
- See if the old gas block works. If not, purchase a new one to fit specifications.
- Reassemble your AR-15, and it's ready to go.
Conclusion
You've seen the very best handguards on the market, what makes them tick, and how you can apply them to your AR-15 right now. It's time to modify your AR-15 with the knowledge you've learned. After considering the budget, sizes, quality, and more, all you have to do is pick your favorite from our list. It's that simple.
People Also Ask
If your burning questions surrounding handguards haven't been answered yet, that's okay—this section covers everything else that you could want to know. By the end of this, you'll have all the operable knowledge required to use your handguard properly.
How Long is a Standard AR-15 Handguard?
The standard handguard length is around seven inches. Your handguard needs to align with the size of your gas port and upper. To use a shorter handguard on an AR-15, you need to replace the barrel with something smaller.
Can I Put a Longer Handguard on a Carbine?
Not without a gun overhaul. Your handguard needs to match the gas system. Otherwise, it will overlap it. In some instances, overlapping won't cause impairment, but it will change the user interaction slightly.
Does the Military Use Free Float Handguards?
Technically, they do not. The United States military has built-in free-floating rails, which operate differently than an aftermarket handguard. Most military-issue weapons undergo as little modding as possible to prevent disparities in performance on the battlefield or create additional problems for the shooter.
What Size Handguard for a 16 Inch Barrel?
16" barrels are called the "Civilian Standard" and require a 13.5" handguard. This may cover the gas block at the end of your barrel, but it will also reduce weight. This is a typical handguard length for new shooters.
What Size Handguard for a 20 Inch Barrel?
A 20" barrel requires a 15" handguard. Longer handguards are available and may work, but it depends on your specific AR-15. You can use a 16" handguard in place of a 15", though you may struggle or require a modifier plate to attach it.
How Long is a Carbine Length Handguard?
Carbine length handguards tend to run 10" up to 18". This is different from rifle length that runs 11.5" to 13" long. Many online retailers will list their handguards as carbine but not fall within the parameters. Be aware when shopping.
How to Measure AR-15 Handguards
There are four lengths of AR-15 gas systems that we predominantly use today: rifle, pistol, carbine, and mid. Measure your gas tube to find out which one you need. An AR-15 usually registers at a carbine length of 10" up to 18".
How Long is a Mild Length Handguard?
Whether it's a railed or plastic piece, you can expect to see seven inch long handrails. Mild lengths may be as short as five inches, although these are typically designed for operators with fairly small hands, not your average Joe.
Who Makes PSA Handguards?
PSA has multiple manufacturers that are constantly rotating in and out of supply liens. The most common company that we consistently see them partnering with is DC Machine, but you may also receive handguards created by FN/Herstal. Both brands provide quality results.