Hand Guard Hell

[sevenhelmet]

I have searched exhaustively, but I am having a lot of trouble deciding on a hand guard...

My current build project is a 18" AR-15 "SPR" concept rifle in FDE (looking at a DD barrel with mid-length gas system). I am building this one from the ground up for the learning experience, and to have a quality rifle which has all the features I want. This rifle will be used for distance shooting (hopefully 300-500 yards, but I'm not a crack shot or anything), and possibly some small game hunting when I move back West. I have built a lower from parts before, but this will be my first upper. I have spent hours going back and forth, but I seem to hit a pothole every time I think I have settled on a choice. Here are the criteria I have for a hand guard:

1.) Modular or key-mod type.
2.) Not too heavy. Minimalist is not required, I just don't want to throw the balance of the gun too far forward.
3.) Built in sling QD holes would be nice
4.) Durable enough for field / somewhat harsh use.
5.) Offered in FDE or desert-type color
6.) Long enough, but not excessive. I think 12" would be about right for functional use without too much weight.

So, based on these general criteria, three of the rails I have considered are:
1.) Geissele Super-modular Mk 4 13" in DDC. I love the design! However, they are expensive and out of stock EVERYWHERE. However, if I can ever find one in stock, I might just break the bank for it.
2.) Midwest Industries gen 2 SS 12" rail in FDE. Nice design and price, but I worry about poly rail sections and durability.
3.) Troy Alpha 11"/13" in FDE. This was my original choice, but I will probably not go that route.


Any input is welcome. Thanks for your time!

[SilverBullet432]

4.) BCM KMR 13 cerakoted from G&R.

[MorphCross]

I was going to suggest Geissele but then I noticed you already had it on your list...So go with the Geissele.

[albatrossarmament]

There are so many options. First, if you wand FDE ypu can always have it Cerakoted FDE for about $50, so that's no big deal. Both the Troy and Geissele rails are very nice... and don't discount the 13" Mk2 that's on sale at AIM for $225.

Here's a couple I recently put together:

IMG_1460.jpg

[Nowski87]

I use the MI Gen 2 SS and I love it, I was going to go the keymod route but I got this for a song. I would go with the MI, they don't break the bank and are built very well. They are also extremely lite. As for the rail sections there are aluminum sections.

[South]

...............

[elephantrider]

4.) BCM KMR 13 cerakoted from G&R.

Big time 2nd to this.
I've owned 2 of the 3 on your list. I'm not sure that the Troy and MI are all that durable or robust for field use.

[Iraqgunz]

13" MKII. They are on sale now. Then rattle can it with tan Krylon.

[SpeedRacer]

13" MKII. They are on sale now. Then rattle can it with tan Krylon.

Agree.

[Swamp Yankee]

What are your guyss' thoughts on the Geissele rails vs. The KMR as a duty rifle rail? I have never owned either and am torn between the two brands for my patrol rifle.