If you are looking for the best handguards, your first option should be an Aero Precision handguard.
Aero Precision Handguards are designed with precision and attention to detail for optimal performance. These handguards will not only enhance the looks and aesthetics of your firearm but also offer incredible functionality for improved accuracy, customization options, and an enhanced overall shooting experience.
Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a tactical operator, or a firearm enthusiast looking for a handguard for your rifle, Aero Precision handguards are the best on the market.
What Makes a Great Rifle Handguard?
Several key factors contribute to what makes a great rifle handguard, First, the material used to make the handguard will determine how durable the handguard will be. The most common materials for handguards are aircraft-grade aluminum, carbon fiber, or high-strength polymer. These materials are able to handle and withstand harsh conditions,corrosion, and endure rigorous use without deformation or wear.
The best handguard should strike a balance between weight and strength. Being lightweight to reduce overall rifle weight, but not at the expense of strength, stability, and durability. It should also enhance comfortable handling.
The best handguard should allow attachment of different accessories like bipods, optics, lights, lasers, and grips M-LOK and Picatinny rail systems are popular choices for attaching accessories securely.
Effective heat dissipation is also very important, this will ensure the handguard doesn’t become uncomfortably hot, especially during rapid or prolonged action. The handguard should have ventilation slots, heating shields, and cooling fins to help in freeing the heat.
Comfort ergonomic design will ensure the grip is secure and firm which in turn translates into accuracy and control. Some handguards feature angled or textured surfaces for improved handling.
The handguard should be easy and seamless to install without the need for special gunsmithing expertise. The handguard should also look good and complement the overall look of the rifle. Handguards also come in different lengthsLonger handguards offer more accessory attachment points, while shorter ones provide a more compact profile.
Best Aero Precision Handguards
1) Aero Precision AR15 Atlas S-One M-LOK Handguard
Specifications
- Handguard Type: Free-Float
- Mount Type: M-LOK
- Gun Rail: Picatinny
The Aero Precision AR15 Atlas S-One M-LOK Handguard is the best Aero Precision Handguard, It is lightweight, has a thoughtful design, is compatible with various AR15 components, and has an M-LOK attachment system making it the best handguard for the AR platform.
Front and Rear Picatinny Rails
With the Atlas S-One handguard, you get front and rear Picatinny rails, this makes it easy if you need to attach accessories such as grips, lasers, optics, and lights.
Weight Reduction
This handguard has the center of the top rail eliminated to reduce weight making rifle handling easier by reducing unnecessary bulk, which in turn results in a sleek and streamlined appearance.
Positive Grip Control
With Indexing Grooves in 12:00 Position, your hands will stay in place even in adverse shooting conditions. This enhances accuracy and control even in rapid-fire or very dynamic shooting situations
Versatility and Maneuverability
With Quick Disconnect Sling Socket at the 3, 6, and 9 O’clock Positions you are able to quickly and securely attach a sling for comfortable carry and fast transitions between shooting positions.
Compatible with Low Profile Gas Blocks
Making it suitable for various gas system configurations. This compatibility ensures that you can use it with a wide range of AR15 upper receivers and barrels without compatibility concerns.
Compatible with Mil-Spec AR15 Upper Receivers and Barrels
The Aero Precision Atlas S-One M-LOK Handguard is designed to seamlessly integrate with mil-spec AR15 upper receivers and barrels, ensuring a hassle-free installation process and a secure fit.
Pros
- Front and rear Picatinny rail
- Reduced weight by eliminating the center of the top rail
- Compatible with Mil-Spec AR15 Upper Receivers and Barrels
- Enhanced accuracy and control even in rapid-fire
Cons
- NOT Compatible with M4E1 Enhanced Upper Receivers
2) Aero Precision AR15 Quantum M-LOK Handguard
Specifications
- Handguard Type: Free-Float
- Mount Type: M-LOK
- Gun Rail: Picatinny
This Aero Precision AR15 Quantum M-LOK Handguard comes packed with many features including compatibility with the M4E1 Upper Receiver, anti-rotation tabs, multiple M-LOK mounting surfaces, and versatile diameter specifications making one of the best handguards for AR 15.
M4E1 Upper Receiver Integration
The Quantum M-LOK Handguard is specifically designed to seamlessly and easily integrate with the M4E1 Upper Receiver. This ensures a perfect fit and a streamlined, aesthetically pleasing look when paired with the compatible upper receiver.
Free Float Design
With the one-piece free-float design, the need for extra barrel nuts is eliminated while providing enhanced stability and accuracy. This design ensures the handguard doesn’t come into contact with the barrel, which can affect accuracy, especially during rapid or sustained fire.
4-Slot Picatinny Rail Section for Front Sight
For those who prefer using front sights or other accessories, the Quantum M-LOK Handguard includes a removable 4-slot Picatinny rail section at the front. This feature allows you to easily attach and detach front sights or other Picatinny-compatible accessories as needed.
Anti-Rotation Tabs
To maintain perfect alignment and prevent unwanted movement, the handguard is equipped with built-in anti-rotation tabs. These tabs ensure that the handguard stays securely in place, even during intense shooting sessions.
8 Mounting Surfaces
This Handguard has 8 mounting surfaces for a wide range of M-LOK compatible accessories. This versatility enables you to customize your rifle with lights, grips, slings, and more, ensuring it meets your specific shooting requirements.
Compatible with Low-Profile Gas Blocks
This Handguard is designed to be compatible with low-profile gas blocks, providing flexibility in configuring your gas system. This compatibility ensures that you can easily install the handguard on your AR15 without compatibility concerns.
Pros
- 8 mounting surfaces for a wide range of M-LOK compatible accessories
- Compatible with low-profile gas blocks
- Removable 4-slot Picatinny rail section at the front for sights and other accessories
- Built-in anti-rotation tabs for stability even intense shooting
- Easily integrates with the M4E1 Upper Receiver
Cons
- None
3) Aero Precision AR15 Enhanced M-LOK Handguard/ Barrel
Specifications
- Handguard Type: Free-Float
- Mount Type: M-LOK
- Gun Rail: Picatinny
This Aero Precision AR15 Enhanced M-LOK Handguard features a free float design, anti-rotation tabs, scalloped rails, continuous top rail, quick disconnect sling sockets, additional milling, and an updated profile making it one of the best handguards for the AR15 platform.
Free Float Design
This design ensures that the handguard does not make contact with the barrel, allowing the barrel to vibrate freely without affecting accuracy for improved shooting precision.
Anti-Rotation Tabs
To maintain perfect alignment and eliminate unwanted movement, the handguard is equipped with built-in anti-rotation tabs to securely lock the handguard in place on your rifle, ensuring that it stays put, even during rapid or sustained fire.
Scalloped Rails
The scalloped rails on the handguard provide a comfortable and ergonomic gripping surface. These unique contours enhance your control over the firearm and contribute to a more secure and natural grip.
Continuous Top Rail
The Enhanced M-LOK Handguard features a continuous Picatinny top rail that spans the entire length of the handguard. This uninterrupted rail provides a vast platform for mounting optics, sights, and other accessories. It ensures that you have ample space for customization, allowing you to configure your AR15 according to your specific needs.
Quick Disconnect Sling Socket
Positioned at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions on the handguard, quick disconnect sling sockets offer enhanced versatility for carrying and maneuvering your rifle. They allow for the quick and secure attachment of slings, enabling you to easily switch between different carrying styles and shooting positions.
Additional Milling Along Flats for Grip and Aesthetics
The handguard’s design includes additional milling along the flats, serving two purposes. First, it enhances the gripping surface, ensuring that you can maintain a secure hold even in challenging conditions. Second, it adds visual appeal to the handguard, giving your AR15 a unique and attractive appearance.
New Profile for the Continuous Picatinny Top Rail
The Enhanced M-LOK Handguard boasts a new profile for the continuous Picatinny top rail. This profile not only adds a distinctive look to your rifle but also enhances compatibility with various accessories and optics, ensuring a seamless and reliable mounting experience.
Pros
- Comfortable and ergonomic gripping surface on the scalloped rails
- Compatibility with various accessories and optics
- Built-in anti-rotation tabs to securely lock the handguard in place on your rifle
- Additional Milling Along Flats for Grip and Aesthetics
- Free Float Design
Cons
- None
4) Aero Precision M5 .308 Enhanced M-LOK Handguard
Specifications
- Handguard Type: Free-Float
- Mount Type: M-LOK
- Gun Rail: M-LOK
The Aero Precision M5 .308 Enhanced M-LOK Handguard is designed to improve the performance and customization options of your M5 .308. Combining precision engineering, modularity, and compatibility. Its free float design, anti-rotation tabs, scalloped rails, and compatibility with low-profile gas blocks make it the best handguard for the .308 platform.
Free Float Design
The free float design ensures that it does not come into contact with the barrel. This design element is crucial for maintaining optimal accuracy by allowing the barrel to vibrate freely during firing without any interference.
Built-In Anti-Rotation Tabs
To guarantee perfect alignment and prevent unwanted rotation or movement, the handguard is equipped with built-in anti-rotation tabs. These tabs securely lock the handguard in place on your rifle, ensuring it remains stable, even under rapid or sustained fire.
Scalloped Rails
The scalloped rails on the handguard provide an ergonomic and comfortable gripping surface. These contoured sections not only enhance the aesthetics of your rifle but also improve your control over the firearm. Whether you’re transitioning between targets or holding your rifle in various shooting positions, the scalloped rails contribute to a secure and natural grip.
Compatibility with Low-Profile Gas Blocks
The handguard is designed to be compatible with low-profile gas blocks, offering flexibility in configuring your gas system. This compatibility ensures that you can easily install the handguard on your .308 rifle without compatibility concerns.
DPMS High Profile (.210) Tang
The handguard is engineered to accommodate DPMS High Profile (.210) tang dimensions, ensuring a precise fit with your .308 rifle. This compatibility enhances the overall integrity and aesthetics of your build.
M-LOK System
The M-LOK system, which this handguard utilizes, offers advanced modularity beyond the traditional 1913 Picatinny rail system. This allows you to attach a wide range of M-LOK compatible accessories, providing you with unparalleled customization options for your rifle. Whether you want to add optics, lights, lasers, foregrips, or other attachments, the M-LOK system ensures you have the flexibility to configure your rifle to your exact specifications.
Strength and Lightweight Construction
The handguard is designed to eliminate unnecessary bulk while retaining exceptional strength and stability. This lightweight construction enhances the maneuverability of your rifle without compromising its durability or performance.
Pros
- Free float design makes sure the handguard does not come into contact with the barrel
- Built-in anti-rotation tabs to securely lock the handguard
- Ergonomic and comfortable gripping surface
- M-LOK system offers advanced modularity beyond the traditional 1913 Picatinny rail system
- Lightweight construction
Cons
- None
5) AR-15/M16 Enhanced Handguards
Specifications
- Handguard Type: Free-Float
- Mount Type: M-LOK
- Gun Rail: M-LOK
These Aero Precision AR-15 Enhanced Gen 2 Handguards are durable, free-floated handguards for a standard Mil-Spec upper receiver, these handguards provide the features and performance needed to optimize your AR-15 rifle.
Compatibility with Aero Precision M4E1 Enhanced Upper Receivers
These handguards are custom-designed to seamlessly integrate with Aero Precision’s M4E1 Enhanced upper receivers. The integration between the upper receiver and handguard provides a sleek and cohesive appearance while maintaining precision performance.
M-LOK or KeyMod Accessory Mounting Points
You have the choice between M-LOK or KeyMod accessory mounting points, allowing you to customize your AR-15 with a wide range of compatible accessories, such as lights, lasers, grips, and more. This flexibility ensures that you can configure your rifle to meet your specific shooting needs and preferences.
Constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum
The handguards are machined from high-quality 6061-T6 aluminum, renowned for its strength and lightweight properties. This material ensures that the handguards can withstand rugged use while keeping the overall weight of your rifle in check.
Free Float Design
The free-float design of these handguards means that they do not come into contact with the barrel. This separation prevents any interference with the barrel’s harmonics during firing, resulting in improved shooting accuracy.
Continuous Top 1913 Picatinny Rail
The handguards feature a continuous top 1913 Picatinny rail that runs along the entire length. This rail provides a spacious and secure platform for mounting optics, sights, or other accessories, giving you plenty of customization options.
Scalloped Rails and Anti-Rotation Tabs
Scalloped rails on the sides of the handguards improve grip and handling, ensuring a secure hold during dynamic shooting scenarios. Additionally, built-in anti-rotation tabs help maintain proper alignment and prevent unwanted movement.
1.72″ Inside Diameter
The inside diameter of the handguards measures 1.72 inches from the barrel nut cut to the forward end. This generous diameter accommodates most muzzle devices and allows for the use of 1.5-inch suppressors, offering versatility in your firearm setup.
Compatibility with Low Profile Gas Blocks
These handguards are designed to be compatible with low-profile gas blocks, providing you with options when configuring your gas system.
Quick Disconnect Sling Sockets
Quick disconnect sling sockets are strategically placed at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions on the handguards. These sockets allow for the easy attachment of slings, enhancing the rifle’s versatility for different carrying styles and shooting positions.
Compatibility with Standard Mil-Spec Upper Receivers
While primarily designed for use with Aero Precision M4E1 Enhanced upper receivers, the Enhanced Gen 2 Handguards can also be used with standard threaded Mil-Spec upper receivers. To achieve this, a separate purchase of the BAR Barrel Nut is required, offering compatibility and flexibility with a wider range of upper receiver configurations.
Pros
- Compatible with standard threaded Mil-Spec upper receivers
- Quick disconnect sling sockets
- Compatible with low-profile gas blocks
- Improved grip and handling
- Free-float design
- High-quality 6061-T6 aluminum construction
Cons
- None
Related: 6 Best AR 15 Handguards
Aero Precision Handguard FAQs
What types of handguards does Aero Precision offer?
Aero Precision offers a variety of handguards, including free-floating and drop-in designs, in different lengths and styles. They may also have different attachment methods like M-LOK or KeyMod.
What is the difference between free-floating and drop-in handguards?
Free-floating handguards do not touch the barrel, which can potentially enhance accuracy. Drop-in handguards, on the other hand, typically make contact with the barrel and are easier to install.
What is the importance of handguard length?
The length of a handguard affects the amount of space available for accessories and how far you can extend your support hand. Longer handguards provide more room for accessories and allow you to use a more extended grip.
Do I need any special tools to install an Aero Precision handguard?
The tools required for installation can vary, but you may need an armorer’s wrench, torque wrench, and Allen wrenches. Aero Precision often includes the necessary hardware with their handguards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Aero Precision handguards have earned a reputation for their quality, versatility, and compatibility within the AR-15 and AR-10 platforms. Whether you prioritize a free-floating design for enhanced accuracy or prefer a drop-in handguard for ease of installation, Aero Precision’s product lines provide a solid foundation for customization and accessory integration, ensuring you can tailor your firearm to meet your exact requirements.