Midwest Industries Inc. Gen 2 SS Free Float Handguards [Archive]

SomeOtherGuy

01-25-12, 13:41

Quick thoughts:

-the quoted weights are great.

-including a bipod stud and a QD cup in one of the included rail sections is a BIG plus compared to other brands where you need to spend a lot extra for those.

-is the barrel nut the same as a GI barrel nut or proprietary?

-I find it funny that MI is going to a clamping style attachment like a Troy TRX (original) just as Troy is switching away from that design. Any comments on that?

Stickman

01-25-12, 22:27

Q

-I find it funny that MI is going to a clamping style attachment like a Troy TRX (original) just as Troy is switching away from that design. Any comments on that?

I don't hold Troy as a standard, do you?

SomeOtherGuy

01-25-12, 22:33

I don't hold Troy as a standard, do you?

Not as a standard, but it is interesting to see one company adopt a relatively unusual way of doing something just as what I think the first company to use that method goes away from it. It appears that Troy changed their attachment design due to perceived or possibly real issues with the strength of that attachment. MI may have done something different that has no issues, but I am curious to learn more.

az doug

01-25-12, 22:35

It looks like a proprietary barrel nut. The teeth of the nut appear to go up against the upper with the long smooth section pointing towards the muzzle. The teeth may be exposed, slightly, as the four locking tabs on the forend engage the teeth to prevent it from rotating. At least that is what it looks like from the photos.

It looks interesting. I have another build and will consider this rail.

az doug

01-25-12, 22:45

They were not the first to use the slit/screw clamping method. Google the Olympic Arms Firsh handguard. The difference is that the Firsh threaded on the barrel nut and then used one screw/later two screws to clamp to the barrel nut instead of using a jam nut to keep it alive.

I am not certain the Olympic Arms Firsh was the first, but I installed one about 20 years ago and it is still being used. (it is a heavy rail and outdated in my opinion, but not because of the screw clamp) Also this method has been used in other applications with great success. It all depends on the amount of bearing surface it clamps against.

thei3ug

01-26-12, 09:33

The Firsh was a boat anchor with rails on it. I've never used a troy. Does it lock into the barrel nut, or is it completely friction fit?

So are there inserts to the SS, or do the rails screw directly into the tube? Are there going to be other rail lengths available for the system, or can existing MI rail segments be used?

SomeOtherGuy

01-26-12, 09:43

The Firsh was a boat anchor with rails on it. I've never used a troy. Does it lock into the barrel nut, or is it completely friction fit?

The Troy TRX design has a barrel nut that is similar to a GI but slightly smaller. The handguard has longitudinal grooves. You slip the grooves over the spikes on the nut and then rotate very slightly (maybe 10 degrees) to align the handguard with receiver, which causes the nut spikes to sit within a circumferential groove that keeps the handguard from moving forward or backward. Then you tighten a slit-clamp for a friction fit to keep it in place. It works fine and many people have abused TRX / TRX Extreme handguards with no issues, but a few report issues and many have questioned its strength.

I think az doug is right about the barrel nut and how this would work. I am wondering if the only thing keeping it from sliding forward is friction from the clamp, or if there is some mechanical stop as well.

mark5pt56

01-26-12, 09:46

After I tried and broke my Troy, I went to the Centurion Arms rails. In my opinion, the two clamping screws need to have replaceable STEEL nuts instead of the embedded helicoils. The tab could have a hexagonal cut out to hold the steel nuts semi"captive". What I seriously think is lacking on a lot of items are torque specs. I mean, if you make the dang thing and the nut it clamps to, shouldn't you know how tight it should be within a safe range vs. finger tight or small gap, etc. etc.

Stickman

01-26-12, 10:43

Not as a standard, but it is interesting to see one company adopt a relatively unusual way of doing something just as what I think the first company to use that method goes away from it. It appears that Troy changed their attachment design due to perceived or possibly real issues with the strength of that attachment. MI may have done something different that has no issues, but I am curious to learn more.

Troy wasn't the first company.

SomeOtherGuy

01-26-12, 10:47

Troy wasn't the first company.

Apart from the Olympic Arms "Firsh" that was mentioned by az doug in post #6, were there others using this design before Troy?

Midwest Industries

01-26-12, 11:39

Midwest Industries

01-26-12, 11:51

Torque specs are provided. Threads for the rail screws are roll form tapped not cut so they are stronger. The large holes have helicoils.Our nut design is very different from the other guys. The inside of ours is bored and does not have a scalloped type nut . They go on nice and straight.
thanks
TROY

mark5pt56

01-26-12, 11:55

That is a very good idea to provide torque specs on those parts. I should have been clear that I was referring to the Troy rails.

Thanks

TedG

01-26-12, 12:30

I have a Gen I rifle free float and I'm waiting to receive my Gen II Carbine free float. Good products.

Midwest Industries

02-17-12, 14:53

btt :)

archad

02-17-12, 15:10

are the new 12"of rails shipping yet?

TedG

02-17-12, 15:13

Midwest Industries Gen 2 FF Carbine Length Rail on Colt 6920

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i90/TedG954/2012-02-021.jpg

Just realized the thread is dealing with a different style rail.....

Midwest Industries

02-21-12, 13:34

Midwest Industries Gen 2 FF Carbine Length Rail on Colt 6920

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i90/TedG954/2012-02-021.jpg

Just realized the thread is dealing with a different style rail.....

a good looking setup nun the less! ;)

PETE
MI

Midwest Industries

02-28-12, 08:53

:happy:

JB326

03-04-12, 23:35

I didn't check the link, (but didn't think MI would mind the free bump) but are these available yet? I'm getting ready for a new build and having seen these, I think I've found my forend.

tikka308

03-05-12, 08:04

I bought the 12" in FDE and it arrived last week. Haven't installed it yet, but looks and feels very nice.

I didn't check the link, (but didn't think MI would mind the free bump) but are these available yet? I'm getting ready for a new build and having seen these, I think I've found my forend.

tuck

03-05-12, 08:29

MistWolf

03-05-12, 09:51

Make them out of carbon fiber and I'll be in

Midwest Industries

03-07-12, 16:59

I picked this up from Midwest Industries Saturday:

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa215/tuckinauster/gun%20porn/ac4361ab.jpg

I love this rail. It's super light, really comfortable and generally bad ass.

That looks awesome!
to answer the question, yes these are shipping as fast as we can make them.

danish

03-07-12, 18:20

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa215/tuckinauster/gun%20porn/ac4361ab.jpg

Paint that rifle green & gold, thrown a Packers sticker on it and it will embody all things AR from Wisconsin. Did you pick all WI manufacturers on purpose?? Very nice..

A question for MI though: Will these be manufactured for 308 platforms like the LR-308 or Armalite??

tuck

03-07-12, 18:37

There may have been a little state pride that factored into my purchase...

It is a good feeling that I can get quality AR products and support my local economy at the same time. I just wish Vortex would make a red dot on par with an Aimpoint...

mricht537

03-07-12, 19:28

I got the last 16" RECCE on Saturday and also picked up a BCM SS410 18" SPR upper. Thanks Troy!:D

tikka308

03-08-12, 08:17

Here's mine - build is still WIP.

sadmin

03-11-12, 10:21

Do these rails lock up the same as the Troy TRX? Thanks

Midwest Industries

03-12-12, 16:21

A question for MI though: Will these be manufactured for 308 platforms like the LR-308 or Armalite??

There may or may not be a 308 project underway. ;)

PETE
MI

SW-Shooter

03-12-12, 16:49

Any chance you'll make this in a 10 inch rail? I'd really love a 10.5 to go with an 11.5 inch barrel, but nobody makes a good 10.5.

ra2bach

03-12-12, 19:48

when did this forum turn into a place to advertise?..

Midwest Industries

03-13-12, 12:15

Any chance you'll make this in a 10 inch rail? I'd really love a 10.5 to go with an 11.5 inch barrel, but nobody makes a good 10.5.

We will be making these in 10, 9, and 7 inch versions soon!

Thanks,
PETE
MI

Midwest Industries

03-13-12, 12:20

when did this forum turn into a place to advertise?..

In my mind the forums are designed for communicating about building, shooting, troubleshooting and anything else related to the weapon.
I am simply showing a new product that is an option for you to use on your M4 style gun. Many people come here to find new products that will work best for them.

Thanks,
PETE
MI

TomMcC

03-16-12, 20:42

What is the method of anti-rotation? I can see that the rail is tabbed to the barrel nut, but what keeps the rail and barrel nut from rotating as a unit, barrel nut torque alone or something else?

After thinking about my question it finally dawned on me the the gas tube is the method of anti-rotation similar to a stock barrel nut/gas tube set up. I was so used to seeing the tabs on other rails it slipped by me.

Midwest Industries

03-19-12, 16:19

MidwestRookie

03-19-12, 16:59

Too bad I ordered my BCM upper when only the Gen 1 was out...I like this new one a little more.

Oh well, I still like my Gen 1..I think the Troy rail would be too skinny for my hands. I like the extra space inside your guys' handguard because I can install the rail sections without taking off the handguard. ETA, even with the thicker SS410 barrel.

rob_s

04-30-12, 05:54

I wanted t bump this and see if anyone else had picked one up, or if anyone that posted they bought, or were buying, one had some rounds on them. To that point, if you've been shooting I'd like to know how many rounds you have on it, in what environment, and THEN your opinion of the handguard. Without the first two the last one is irrelevant to me.

tuck

04-30-12, 12:18

I've got somewhere between 600 and 800 rounds through the BCM that I posted earlier in the thread. Those rounds were shot doing informal training/basic drills.

While I don't have much in the way of practical experience with other tube/mono-rails I really do like the MI Gen2. I love how light and narrow the rail is. The extra length is a nice upgrade from the 9" rail I had before.

One thing I wish MI incorporated would be spots to mount rail sections at the 11ish and 1ish positions. Also (and this should be common sense) make sure you put a dab of locktite on the screws for the rail sections. I forgot that step and had one come loose the other day.

amac

04-30-12, 21:14

tuck

04-30-12, 21:53

This rail is very interesting. I like the narrow width and light weight. One thing I've come accustomed to is my hand stop. I'm using a quad rail now and the attached profile is seamless. How bulky does it feel to add a rail panel and top that with a hand stop? I have mine positioned at the bore end. Also, is there any texturing on the rail or is as smooth as it appears in the photo?

I don't have any problem using a KAC grip as a pseudo hand stop, but I can see how a dedicated hand stop may be pushed a bit too far away from the tube to be comfortable.

The rail is as smooth as it looks in the pictures. All of the cut-outs provide pretty positive traction when gripping the tube itself though.

Hope that helps.

rob_s

05-01-12, 03:54

are there attachment points along the bottom? Could you add a direct-attach hand stop like the Mount-N-Slot?

amac

05-01-12, 06:59

are there attachment points along the bottom? Could you add a direct-attach hand stop like the Mount-N-Slot?

this.

Now I see the future of rails - direct mount accessories.

tuck

05-01-12, 07:09

12046

That's what the bottom of the rail looks like. I'm unfamiliar with mount and slot stuff though.

rob_s

05-01-12, 07:14

I'm not sure if MNS makes a 1.5" ID mount to go on a 1.5" OD tube.

I think I may need to play with one of these handguards soon. Even toying with the idea of the 15" just to really push it.

amac

05-01-12, 11:56

Just order a 15"! Also contacted Impact Weapons and their hand stop will fit this rail. You just have to order the one designed for the TRX or VTAC. That plus a QD mount, and I'm set.

tuck

05-01-12, 12:15

Just order a 15"! Also contacted Impact Weapons and their hand stop will fit this rail. You just have to order the one designed for the TRX or VTAC. That plus a QD mount, and I'm set.

Good to know. I might have to try one out.

By the way, the MI gives you a rail section with an anti-rotation QD cup built in. It's what I'm using for my sling.

amac

05-01-12, 12:21

Good to know. I might have to try one out.

By the way, the MI gives you a rail section with an anti-rotation QD cup built in. It's what I'm using for my sling.

I plan to give the supplied items a try first. No need to spend the money twice! Less weight is my desired goal.

Midwest Industries

05-01-12, 16:05

thei3ug

05-01-12, 16:25

this.

Now I see the future of rails - direct mount accessories.

Would be nice if every tube used the same mounting system. At least rails are supposed to be standardized. As it is, there's a lot of proprietary mounts and a few things like Mount-N-Slot.

rob_s

05-01-12, 18:22

how wide are the slots? Any chance of a recessed sling swivel?

I'd really like to see one of these tubes with a direct-attach vertical grip.

tuck

05-02-12, 00:41

A direct interface handstop is in the works. ;)
Also, 10" handguards should be shipping very very soon.
We have a bunch of cool stuff coming out for these. If you need a longer rail section keep your eyes on this thread. they should be next.

Thanks guys,
PETE
MI

Sounds like I'm going to need to make another trip down your way...

how wide are the slots? Any chance of a recessed sling swivel?

I'd really like to see one of these tubes with a direct-attach vertical grip.

Slots measure .264" at the narrow part and .380" at the widest point.

Midwest Industries

05-08-12, 14:42

Sounds like I'm going to need to make another trip down your way...

Slots measure .264" at the narrow part and .380" at the widest point.

Tuck,
Thanks for getting them the info.
I will post here as soon as I have the handstops.
When you come in be sure to tell me who you are.;)

Thanks,
PETE
MI

tuck

05-08-12, 17:33

Tuck,
Thanks for getting them the info.
I will post here as soon as I have the handstops.
When you come in be sure to tell me who you are.;)

Thanks,
PETE
MI

Will do.

amac

05-08-12, 19:21

Pete, do these ship with some type of moly grease for the barrel nut replacement? Otherwise, I'll be heading to the store asap. Thanks

Butter

05-08-12, 19:58

http://i1049.photobucket.com/albums/s389/johnboyinnc/DSCN0048.jpg.

Id buy another MI handguard again for sure

rob_s

05-08-12, 20:10

Pete, do these ship with some type of moly grease for the barrel nut replacement? Otherwise, I'll be heading to the store asap. Thanks

make sure you get the right kind. It's not the end of the world if you don't, but since you're going to do it right you might as well make it really right. No graphite.

Iraqgunz

05-08-12, 20:17

Are you aware that it isn't recommended to use that Magpul sight on a gas block due to the heat? Heat+plastic= bad.

http://i1049.photobucket.com/albums/s389/johnboyinnc/DSCN0048.jpg.

Id buy another MI handguard again for sure

Butter

05-08-12, 20:51

Are you aware that it isn't recommended to use that Magpul sight on a gas block due to the heat? Heat+plastic= bad.
Yes I am. Its an old picture.

hunt_ak

05-08-12, 23:56

http://i1049.photobucket.com/albums/s389/johnboyinnc/DSCN0048.jpg.

Id buy another MI handguard again for sure

Do you have a pic of the handguard that the thread is related to?

kembry

05-09-12, 11:43

Any updates when the 7" or 9" will be available?

Greg Kulbick

05-09-12, 14:38

Do you have a pic of the handguard that the thread is related to?
I do. Its just a picture of the rifle, nothing special you can't see in the manufacturer's pics really. Just got it on last night. This is the 15" version. It mounts solidly to the barrel nut, I tried to spin everything as a whole and it didn't budge. If it did come loose, it would stop at the gas block and be unable to rotate any further in either direction. I haven't shot the rifle yet, so I can't speak to anything other than its feel and install right now. I won't make any claims or expectations until its been beat up a little bit.

http://suxorz.com/i5/psamlmiss1.jpg

hunt_ak

05-09-12, 22:47

Thanks, Greg! That wasn't directed at you, but I do like to hear additional positive reports on this handguard before diving in myself :D

Midwest Industries

05-10-12, 16:36

Pete, do these ship with some type of moly grease for the barrel nut replacement? Otherwise, I'll be heading to the store asap. Thanks

They do not come with moly grease.

Thanks,
PETE
MI

Midwest Industries

05-10-12, 16:39

Any updates when the 7" or 9" will be available?

Give me a week or two at the most and they should be on our website and ready to ship.

Thanks,
PETE
MI

Midwest Industries

05-10-12, 16:42

I do. Its just a picture of the rifle, nothing special you can't see in the manufacturer's pics really. Just got it on last night. This is the 15" version. It mounts solidly to the barrel nut, I tried to spin everything as a whole and it didn't budge. If it did come loose, it would stop at the gas block and be unable to rotate any further in either direction. I haven't shot the rifle yet, so I can't speak to anything other than its feel and install right now. I won't make any claims or expectations until its been beat up a little bit.

http://suxorz.com/i5/psamlmiss1.jpg

Greg,
That looks great. The handguards should not move, but if they do just pull the tube forward, put some locktight on the barrel nut and slid it back on. If you do that they will never come loose without some effort.

Thanks to everyone who has been getting them and keep an eye on our website, we have some other very cool stuff on its way! ;):D

PETE
MI

amac

05-10-12, 20:16

Got mine installed today. It's the 15" version and it mounted up perfectly to my Knights lower. The lock up to the barrel nut feels very secure. I have no concerns of it rotating. My noobness doesn't know what the red dye in the locking grooves is - light seal locktite? I didn't use blue locktite, assuming the red stuff is there for a purpose.

The rail itself is super narrow. I replaced a quad rail and now my hand wraps most of the way around the rail. This is so much lighter than a quad rail and feels just as solid at the bore end. The firm grip feels like I have more control over the rifle. I'll know more when I shoot this weekend.

I didn't mount the supplied rail pieces, but did purchase an Impact Weapons hand stop. It mounted up perfectly. I'm not sure if it's recommended, but I mounted the stop in one of the slots versus the tapped holes. I wanted to leave room at the end to mount a rail piece to attach my Laure QD tripod. Next consideration is a QD attachment for my sling. Keeping weight down is my priority.

What I did notice is there isn't much clearance underneath. Until I shoot the gun and bang it around at a 3Gun, I won't know how well the rail holds up. It doesn't feel flimsy, so I don't expect any flex.

All in all, this rail feels and looks great. Anyone considering a lighter, slimmer rail should give this serious consideration.

Midwest Industries

05-11-12, 10:34

My noobness doesn't know what the red dye in the locking grooves is - light seal locktite? I didn't use blue locktite, assuming the red stuff is there for a purpose.

those are the helicoils you are seeing.

Thanks,
PETE
MI

mic2377

05-11-12, 14:54

I recently installed one of the MI SS G2's in 12" on my 3-gun build. The barrel was an 18" rifle-gas medium weight from Nordic Components. The rail is the perfect length for rifle gas and leaves none of the gas tube exposed.

I must confess I was slightly skeptical of the friction-only attachment to the barrel nut, but it has proven sturdier than I anticipated. I haven't noticed any flex such that I would be worried about it contacting the barrel, even though the barrel was a slightly thicker profile and the handguard is quite slim.

The light weight and helicoiled mounting bolts are also a plus.

amac

05-12-12, 08:43

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7219/7181696604_db761844a1.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181696604/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181696604/) by ammac12 (http://www.flickr.com/people/54080734@N04/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5340/7181695056_458c07773b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181695056/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181695056/) by ammac12 (http://www.flickr.com/people/54080734@N04/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/7181697286_86ccc781a3.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181697286/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181697286/) by ammac12 (http://www.flickr.com/people/54080734@N04/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7181695418_97f3e708c8.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181695418/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181695418/) by ammac12 (http://www.flickr.com/people/54080734@N04/), on Flickr

Handstop from Impact Weapons. Fits perfectly. Low profile.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7181695890_1a256b2eea.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181695890/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181695890/) by ammac12 (http://www.flickr.com/people/54080734@N04/), on Flickr

For the detailed oriented, nit picky people. Slight misalignment with my VLTOR upper.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5466/7181696938_2ae06657df.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181696938/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54080734@N04/7181696938/) by ammac12 (http://www.flickr.com/people/54080734@N04/), on Flickr

I am very pleased with this rail. Going to shoot it today. Will have more to say later.

hunt_ak

05-14-12, 18:51

Very nice pics Amac!

Midwest Industries

05-15-12, 15:38

Very nice pics Amac!

agreed, that is awesome!
enjoy!

Greg Kulbick

05-15-12, 16:36

I hope Pete doesn't mind, but I took some pics of the barrel nut/handguard mating. They're from my phone, but they're still better than my camera would be.

http://suxorz.com/i5/1gxg.jpg

http://suxorz.com/i5/2eye.jpg

http://suxorz.com/i5/3flf.jpg

http://suxorz.com/i5/4idi.jpg

308sako

05-15-12, 17:52

Give me a week or two at the most and they should be on our website and ready to ship.

Thanks,
PETE
MI

I mounted a 15" on a friends upper last night and was overall very impressed. With apparent solidity of the mount, the ultra thin aspect, light weight and quality finish. I have a real desire for a 7" as the light weight SBR I am building up would favor that approach. In my opinion, better than most.

RUDY850

05-15-12, 18:47

Greg Kulbick

05-15-12, 20:34

Is the 15 inch rail to long for a 16 inch mid upper or would it work and just have the flash suppressor sticking out.

also could i get away with cutting and grinding down my fsb

will the rail and old and new barrel nut fit over it if ground down.would like to keep the gas block pinned on
That's my exact set up. 15" handguard on a 16 middy. I just ground down the front sight post to work with the rail. You just need to make sure to get the newly ground low profile gas block narrow enough at the top for the rail to fit over it without touching anywhere.

RUDY850

05-15-12, 20:52

That's my exact set up. 15" handguard on a 16 middy. I just ground down the front sight post to work with the rail. You just need to make sure to get the newly ground low profile gas block narrow enough at the top for the rail to fit over it without touching anywhere.

I seen your pic but wasn't sure what the set up was.Looks good.

did you remove the front sight or let it on and cut and grind it down.I imagine the bayonet lug has to be cut off also?

I wasn't thinking.front sight has to come off to remove the gas tube out of the barrel nut/receiver

Servo

05-15-12, 21:32

I imagine the bayonet lug has to be cut off also?

Yes, grind it down, I had a clamping style gas block and the clamping portion made contact with the rail.

Greg Kulbick

05-15-12, 22:38

I seen your pic but wasn't sure what the set up was.Looks good.

did you remove the front sight or let it on and cut and grind it down.I imagine the bayonet lug has to be cut off also?

I wasn't thinking.front sight has to come off to remove the gas tube out of the barrel nut/receiver

I took the whole front sight post off the rifle and ground it down. Bayonet lug, sling loop mount and top all came off.

Midwest Industries

05-16-12, 11:30

Greg thanks for posting, that looks Awesome!

PETE
MI

Midwest Industries

05-16-12, 11:33

I have a real desire for a 7" as the light weight SBR I am building up would favor that approach. In my opinion, better than most.

Keep an eye on this thread.
They will be on our site very very soon and I will be sure to post here when they are up.
The 7" is so light it is amazing.

Thanks,
PETE
MI

Midwest Industries

05-19-12, 09:04

All sizes available!
http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=450

Thanks,
PETE
MI

archad

05-21-12, 18:51

I have a 12" GenII rail coming from PSA. What does the low pro option mean thanks.

308sako

05-21-12, 22:51

All sizes available!
http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=450

Thanks,
PETE
MI

You should be sending one to Las Vegas tomorrow!

DeftwillP

10-06-12, 22:58

5 month bump.....any feedback after heavy use?

amac

10-07-12, 07:07

5 month bump.....any feedback after heavy use?

It's awesome! Had mine installed for several months. Holds tight, easy to grip, light weight. No issue with rotating, no flex out of the 15" and accessory placement works perfectly with the supplied slots.

This is on my comp rifle, so there aren't many occasions to mag dump. However, on a recent range trip with my boys, we put out a lot of rounds in a hurry. Without a heat shield, this rail will heat up! I would suggest gloves if you plan taking this rail to a training class.

Otherwise, this is the bomb!

balloo93

10-07-12, 07:28

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC00827_zpsb82b3a7e.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x282/balloo932/DSC00830_zps147ae294.jpg

Used the small section of rail with quick connect on the underside to store the PRS rail cover when using the mono-pod. 15" handguard on a 18" barrel.

tuck

10-07-12, 08:43

5 month bump.....any feedback after heavy use?

So far so good. The only complaint I have is that because the rail is so close to the barrel it heats up quite a bit after a long range session, especially suppressed.

plouffedaddy

10-07-12, 08:50

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l178/tiffani33/Guns/IMG_1129.jpg
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l178/tiffani33/Guns/IMG_1130.jpg

Just finished this build yesterday so no performance data yet; just sharing for info purposes....

wahoo95

10-07-12, 09:01

By far my favorite handguard at this time. Extremely lightweight and solid. Can also be had at a great price! I'm working on a lightweight build right now for a lady shooter which will pair the 10" Handguard with a Lightweight 14.5" Barrel.

RD62

10-07-12, 15:46

My dad just picked up one of these that came in yesterday.

We should be installing it in the next few days.

In my experience (which is not overly heavy) M.I. makes quality kit, that while maybe slightly heavier or less refined than some other offerings, represents a excellent value on durable made in the USA parts.

I am eager to see this one in person.

wahoo95

10-07-12, 16:08

The new Gen 2 is the nicest handguard I have seen from MI. Lightweight, solid lock up, and well finished.

Dannybot

10-07-12, 18:23

Is this rail secure enough to put a scope on?

plouffedaddy

10-07-12, 20:56

Most likely but why wouldn't you just mount it to the upper?

Dannybot

10-07-12, 21:44

Most likely but why wouldn't you just mount it to the upper?

I need more eye relief, so it's either get another scope mount, or mount it on a forward rail.

Sticks

10-08-12, 04:36

I need more eye relief, so it's either get another scope mount, or mount it on a forward rail.

I'm somewhat in the same boat with my current Mk12 project.

It looks like a Larue QR rail is my best bet for the optic I have chosen.

Kickin-Ewoks

11-27-12, 23:21

I finished this today. I love this hand guard, it really balances out the rifle well.

http://i1140.photobucket.com/albums/n568/jjames7725/New-AR.jpg

The_Hammer_Man

11-28-12, 14:57

Fiddling around with competition components I ran across JP Enterprises Thermal Dissapator.

Just to see if it was worth a hoot I ordered one for one of my .750 profile barrels. With a bit of fiddling and some judicious use of power tools I was able to mount one of these inside the MI 15" G2 FF tube.

I can now fire the weapon longer before HAVING to put a glove on :)

warner41

11-28-12, 16:22

I have 3 of the Gen2 SS rails, (2) 12's and a 15 on my DMR. I love them, lightweight, modularity, small diameter, good solid rail.

black22rifle

11-28-12, 16:28

warner41

11-28-12, 16:37

I have a SS15 on this rifle, pretty darn solid, little flex if any.

http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/jj582/warner41/DMR.jpg

Here is a SS12 on a 6.8 I built. This is rock solid no flex.

http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/jj582/warner41/100_0757.jpg

hunt_ak

11-29-12, 21:02

Does anyone have the FDE version of this?

plouffedaddy

12-03-12, 20:53

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l178/tiffani33/Picture3-1.png

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l178/tiffani33/Guns/IMG_1287.jpg

I've had the Midwest Industries Gen2 SS series handguard on my AR for about 6 months so far and figured I'd do a product review for ya'll...

Pros:
-Lightweight (7''-7.1oz, 9''-8.3oz, 10''-8.6oz, 12''-9.3oz, 15''-10.9oz)
-Made of 6061 anodized aluminum. The anodizing is holding up well so far.
-Made in the USA.
-The narrow profile helps you really "grab on" to the handguard and stabilize the rifle.
-Comes with 3 2.5'' rail sections for mounting whatever toys you have in mind. One of the rails has an anti-rotation QD socket for sling mounting. There's also a bipod stud that comes with the rail.
-Comes in OD green, FDE, and black.
-A barrel wrench is included (not the best but it is functional).
-The slots in the rail allow for good barrel cooling. The holes just below the rail also help the gas tube cool.
-The anti-rotational system works as advertised (better explanation/visualization in the video).
-The rail sections are contoured to the shape of the rail and mount flush so there's less chance of snagging.

Cons:
-The barrel nut has to be replaced. I don't think it's a big deal but it's just an extra step vs some competitors out there.

Here's the video review with a little shooting and a discussion/demonstration of the rails' properties:

MI Gen2 SS Series Rail HD Video Review Link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EVazuy6tU&feature=g-upl)

black22rifle

12-03-12, 21:44

will these fit over a shaved FSB?

wahoo95

12-03-12, 21:45

will these fit over a shaved FSB?

Yes....must be shaved to a low profile

jtc556

12-09-12, 11:03

Here is mine. I have not decided if it will sport a micro or scope. The magpul sights proved to be more than sufficient to check function after I cut down the front sight. I am very impressed and will be purchasing more. 14449

TurboT8er

03-06-13, 00:01

HuntingTime

03-06-13, 00:17

Believe they have some in development. They had some come out at Shot Show for their G2 Two Piece handguard and recently mentioned making molds for the G2 SS Series in regard to a handstop. So if they are doing that, then its not a stretch that they would be doing panels too. Jut a matter of timing.

The_Hammer_Man

03-06-13, 00:33

Anybody know of any covers that screw directly to these handguards? I haven't had the chance to see how hot it will get, but since some people have already complained about it I figure it is an issue. I'd rather not counter the light weight with rail sections just so I can install rail covers. I also don't want to wrap it in paracord. That just looks... less than desireable.

The time I ever got burned on this rail was because the gas tube/block was leaking gas. Pulled the tube and fixed the problem and now it runs at normal temps out where I grip the tube.

I've noticed that the barrel nut area can get quite toasty though.

JusticeM4

03-06-13, 21:17

A bit late on this thread, but I had the SS12 on my PSA 300Blackout AR (sold last year :( ).

Excellent rail, very slim and easy to handle. When I first used it I was surprised how tiny the handguard was.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v424/eiji81/1%20AR15/DSCI0027.jpg

CoopScoop

03-07-13, 21:41

I really like my MI hand guard--SS 12 G2.

http://<a href=http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8474/8399797051_9e3b722eb0_c.jpg</a> image (http://www.flickr.com/photos/cooperdm/8399797051/) by CoopScoop (http://www.flickr.com/people/cooperdm/), on Flickr" />

black22rifle

09-30-13, 01:44

will the KAC URX panels fit the threads on this rail?

Midwest Industries

09-30-13, 10:59

here is a rifle with MI panels
http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z349/Midwest_Ind/MI-Mount/23e39103-30c0-492f-a0e2-668c1346145a_zps49f13e21.jpg

http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z349/Midwest_Ind/MI-Mount/P9172377_zps851f04b1.jpg

AGENT TIKKI

10-01-13, 00:20

I love mine.....

http://i1224.photobucket.com/albums/ee366/AgentTikki/2013-08-29011011_zps3daf32c6.jpg (http://s1224.photobucket.com/user/AgentTikki/media/2013-08-29011011_zps3daf32c6.jpg.html)

http://i1224.photobucket.com/albums/ee366/AgentTikki/2013-08-29011043_zps5347ec55.jpg (http://s1224.photobucket.com/user/AgentTikki/media/2013-08-29011043_zps5347ec55.jpg.html)

dkindig

10-01-13, 21:57

18" 6.8 with a 15" Gen2:

http://i1074.photobucket.com/albums/w408/dkindig/AR%20Project/IMAG0267.jpg (http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/dkindig/media/AR%20Project/IMAG0267.jpg.html)

evoutfitters

10-02-13, 09:23

18" 6.8 with a 15" Gen2:

http://i1074.photobucket.com/albums/w408/dkindig/AR%20Project/IMAG0267.jpg (http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/dkindig/media/AR%20Project/IMAG0267.jpg.html)

Nice! Love the 15" hand guard with an 18" barrel.

TyGuy

10-02-13, 09:35

I like! I have the Samson Evolution myself. I wonder how the weight would compare.

Midwest Industries

10-02-13, 10:00

Midwest Industries is 12.625" and weighs 9.3 oz
Samson Evolution is 12.37" and weighs 11.5 oz

Here is our newest handguard, the MI-SSK which is also 12.625" weighs only 8.5 oz with the barrel nut.

http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z349/Midwest_Ind/MI-SSK/P9242416_zps119078a0.jpg

Thank you,
PETE
MI

TyGuy

10-02-13, 10:09

Thanks! I won't be taking my Samson off right now, but I'll definitely keep this in mind in the future.

hunt_ak

10-03-13, 13:37

ASH556

10-03-13, 13:57

Issue resolved with MFR.

black22rifle

10-03-13, 14:54

Did they use loctite?

ASH556

10-03-13, 15:03

Did they use loctite?
I don't think they were supposed to...the threads had helicoils.

Midwest Industries

10-03-13, 15:22

Water under the bridge.

Thank you for contacting us, all it would have taken was a phone call and I could have helped you out or at least answered your questions.
There is a possibility it was a factory installed hand guard, if so the installer did not apply the supplied loctite to the barrel nut.
We ship every hand guard with provided loctite and this helps the hand guard stay on in the event the clamp screws are not torqued to the correct torque spec.

If you would have contacted me I would have also walked you through the correct installation process and given you the correct torque spec to clamp the screws to (35 IN/lbs).
Please give me a call or have your customer call me and I will make sure they are good to go.

Thank You
Andy
MI

Edited

ASH556

10-03-13, 15:34

Thank you for contacting us, all it would have taken was a phone call and I could have helped you out or at least answered your questions.
There is a possibility it was a factory installed hand guard, if so the installer did not apply the supplied loctite to the barrel nut.
We ship every hand guard with provided loctite and this helps the hand guard stay on in the event the clamp screws are not torqued to the correct torque spec.

If you would have contacted me I would have also walked you through the correct installation process and given you the correct torque spec to clamp the screws to (35 IN/lbs).
Please give me a call or have your customer call me and I will make sure they are good to go.

Thank You
Andy
MI

Andy, thanks for taking the time to respond. I can appreciate MI making an effort to stand behind their product. However, your response (if I'm understanding it correctly) serves to lessen my opinion of the product. If MI is suggesting that Loctite be applied to the knurled area of the barrel nut to adhere it to the interior surface of the rail, I just can't get behind that. "Gluing" gun parts together as a primary means of installation goes against what I believe most of us here would consider to be a good idea.

I also want to clarify that the opinions I'm expressing here are my own and have no bearing on and are not reflective of those of my employer.

Midwest Industries

10-03-13, 15:49

Andy, thanks for taking the time to respond. I can appreciate MI making an effort to stand behind their product. However, your response (if I'm understanding it correctly) serves to lessen my opinion of the product. If MI is suggesting that Loctite be applied to the knurled area of the barrel nut to adhere it to the interior surface of the rail, I just can't get behind that. "Gluing" gun parts together as a primary means of installation goes against what I believe most of us here would consider to be a good idea.

I also want to clarify that the opinions I'm expressing here are my own and have no bearing on and are not reflective of those of my employer.

Thank you for the phone call, it was nice to talk with you.
If you ever have any questions please let me know.

Thank You
Andy
MI

Chorizo

10-03-13, 15:58

ASH556

10-03-13, 16:00

I always find it odd that folks get indignant when they don't follow directions and something doesn't work right.

I think that there is a quote in the movie "Forrest Gump" that would be apropos. Something about is and does.

Did you read the posts? I didn't do the initial install...I was simply trying to help a man fix his rifle.

Midwest Industries

10-03-13, 16:31

Is this the only photo that you have, Pete? I'd like to see a front profile. Plans for FDE like the older generation?

Check out this thread here.

http://m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=139324

Thanks,
Pete
MI

Chorizo

10-03-13, 17:23

Yeah, I read it. So let me clarify my statement:

You were grousing about the quality of the product because somebody else failed to follow the instructions on proper installation, so you were trying to fix it for the client, by not applying loctite and not following the directions. Hmmmmmm.......

Either way it appears that there was a failure to follow installation directions and a subsequent failure of the product because of it.

Imagine that.

I have two of them installed, one has been shot much with no problems. The other is a recent install, but I don't expect any problems.......but then again, I followed the directions.

black22rifle

10-03-13, 17:25

Andy, thanks for taking the time to respond. I can appreciate MI making an effort to stand behind their product. However, your response (if I'm understanding it correctly) serves to lessen my opinion of the product. If MI is suggesting that Loctite be applied to the knurled area of the barrel nut to adhere it to the interior surface of the rail, I just can't get behind that. "Gluing" gun parts together as a primary means of installation goes against what I believe most of us here would consider to be a good idea.

I also want to clarify that the opinions I'm expressing here are my own and have no bearing on and are not reflective of those of my employer.

he said it is basically a fail safe in case the bolts are not torqued to spec

Servo

10-03-13, 20:00

I think the point Ash is trying to make is being overlooked or missed. It's not whether or not the rail was installed to manufacture spec but an initial short coming in the design its self.

While it is obviously a good idea to follow the instructions that come with a product because, well their there for a reason. The engineers seen a need to apply locktite to the barrel nut to hold the rail in place.

I`m with Ash in thinking that this an engineering short coming in the rail "lock-up" method. No glue or adhesive should be needed to hold the rail on. Look at other designs by, Noveske, Centurion, Daniel Defense, and even Troy.

This is by no means a rip on MI, I have a gen 2 ss12 on a precision AR and love the rail.

Slippers

10-03-13, 20:04

he said it is basically a fail safe in case the bolts are not torqued to spec

Relying on loctite to keep a hand guard on a barrel nut, especially when the two surfaces are lying flat against each other, is not going to be very reliable. If the fasteners loosen up enough then there will be play at the barrel nut, and it'll break free of any hold the loctite had on it, and simply fall off.

There's a reason that the more expensive hand guards like the Centurion CMR and Geissele SMR have a slotted barrel nut. One of the fasteners fits through the slot, so even if it loosens up, the hand guard can't slip off the barrel nut

Midwest Industries

10-04-13, 06:29

I think all you you guys are missing a very important part of the equation. the nut is knurled and is also a good deal longer than a standard barrel nut. When you tighten the bolts to proper spec the hand guard bites onto the knurling with a tremendous amount of friction. We have these units being used in very harsh conditions and we have no issues with calls or any returns. The simple facts are you can make any part fail if you try hard enough. I don t care who s parts you think are the the best I will bet a certain percentage have failed due to improper installation. Installation instructions are put there for a reason but unfortunately we cant force people to follow instructions without rushing, taking short cuts or using improper tools. We sell these units along with our G2 t series OEM to BCM and do you know how many failures we have had reported from them. ZERO. The reason that is they install them using the proper procedure. Prior planning and attention to detail prevents piss poor performance.
thank you :)
Troy
MIDWEST

The_Hammer_Man

10-05-13, 01:52

As a gunsmith in Wisconsin I've used MI products for years. I've watched their products do nothing except improve!

The G2 T and SS series of FF tubes may not appeal to some.. and that's cool. BUT, it sure as hell doesn't make them bad products.

Since their introduction onto the market I've installed w/o issue almost 100 of the G2 SS tubes. (of varying lengths)

Installation is as simple as making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

IF you read the installation instructions and use their INCLUDED thread locker AND give said thread locker the time to cure properly you WILL have NO problems.

IF you don't read the instructions you get what you deserve.

sva01

10-27-13, 07:40

Pete,
Does the MI-SSK use the same barrel nut as the Gen 2 SS?

Thanks!

Midwest Industries is 12.625" and weighs 9.3 oz
Samson Evolution is 12.37" and weighs 11.5 oz

Here is our newest handguard, the MI-SSK which is also 12.625" weighs only 8.5 oz with the barrel nut.

http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z349/Midwest_Ind/MI-SSK/P9242416_zps119078a0.jpg

Thank you,
PETE
MI

ASH556

11-15-13, 12:57

Andy, and whomever else @ MI reads this...here's my solution to the issue we discussed a few weeks ago with regards to the rail coming forward off the front of the barrel nut. Instead of relying on loctite to adhere the rail to the barrel nut, I installed the nut on my upper, marked the index point, then removed the nut and drilled and tapped each side for a button screw. Only the barrel nut is tapped, the tube is drilled .002 larger for a clearance hole. This is on a .308 SS hanguard on my Smith & Wesson M&P10. Now, I realize that not many end users have access to the tools to do this properly. However, I believe MI could greatly improve their Gen2 SS hanguard line if they would cut a groove in the circumference of the barrel nut. Drill and tap the handguard on either side to correspond with the notch in the tube. Include nylon-tipped button screws to engage the groove in the barrel nut on either side. There you go! A minor added step in production that totally eliminates the possibility of the tube sliding forward off the barrel nut without the need to "glue" it in place and hope the clamping screws hold it.

http://i854.photobucket.com/albums/ab104/ASH556/E12267DA-F032-492E-AFA6-E04CB319A912-1516-000000E0532A703C_zpsa605bf8c.jpg
http://i854.photobucket.com/albums/ab104/ASH556/F16400AD-F093-4FAA-9191-FA0D3E486909-3802-00000287A6F096E8_zps12854ae2.jpg

The Godevil

11-15-13, 19:35

Nice job Ash !

birdkiller

11-19-13, 17:44

Hey guys,
Has anyone mounted an IWC Key-Mod Dropwing to the new ssk handguard? I'm looking to mount an Inforce WML with the Dropwing, to an ssk, but am unsure if it will limit the use of the front QD swivel. Any help?

Thanks,
Cole

ForTehNguyen

11-19-13, 20:42

these are made in a 15" version whereas the BCM ones only come in 13" for the longest.

http://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_id=1211

Steve S.

11-19-13, 20:57

I love this rail. I have a more detailed review on it in this subforum.

I've never owned something that sold itself so easily. Anyone who tries out my mid length lightweight falls in love with the rail and ends up ordering one.

One thing I recently discovered is the rail panels can be mounted at 4:30 and 7:30 o'clock on the rail. I love this configuration. Keeps diameter lower than all three panels but feels extremely comfortable. I use the handstop panel on the ejection port side - as I'm a righty - and it works magnificent. Going support hand is no problem either.

I really think the Gen 2 SS is the best on the market. Great job Troy and team. The Keymod version looks pretty bad ass. But it's hard for me to get past the standard version because of the diameter. A version with removable Keymod sections would be nice.

Highly recommend giving this rail a try. I've pinned one on, and a second build will have it pinned on shortly. I am perfectly comfortable being mated to this rail forever.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/20/ebajyqep.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/20/8urypuge.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/20/tara3e4u.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/20/u3e9aqut.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/20/ahy8eba8.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/20/e4yte9ez.jpg