AR handguard/barrel length aesthetic

TTSX · May 26, 2021

To keep it brief, I saw the M&P 15 pistol and I really like the way it looks BUT I want to build one, not buy one. The issue I'm having is, I have no idea what length the handguard is and would like someone with more experience to help me out. Their website says a 7.5" barrel and I THINK the handguard will be an 8" to have the muzzle device sticking partway out. But might be a 7.5? I know I'm asking about a pistol, however it's an AR type, so I felt like posting in semi-auto rifles might get better results. Same idea could easily apply to a rifle as well. Picture for reference.

quneur · May 26, 2021

I would mount a hand stop or something to prevent your hand from slipping forward. The end of the handrail is going get hot if you string shots together.

Tony617 · May 27, 2021

I would get a Magpul AFG so you don't have to worry about your fingers or hand getting burned.

https://magpul.com/m-lok-afg-angled-fore-grip.html?mp_global_color=118

DirectDrive · May 27, 2021

TTSX said:
To keep it brief, I saw the M&P 15 pistol and I really like the way it looks BUT I want to build one, not buy one. The issue I'm having is, I have no idea what length the handguard is and would like someone with more experience to help me out. Their website says a 7.5" barrel and I THINK the handguard will be an 8" to have the muzzle device sticking partway out. But might be a 7.5? I know I'm asking about a pistol, however it's an AR type, so I felt like posting in semi-auto rifles might get better results. Same idea could easily apply to a rifle as well. Picture for reference.

View attachment 892439

Get the barrel length and muzzle device you want and then order the handguard that is the correct length.

Member 53328 · May 27, 2021

I would advise against extending the handguard past the end of the barrel. Like others have stated - buy your barrel and muzzle device and then determine the length you want for a handguard. Much less headache that way.

Member 53328 · May 27, 2021

It looks cool.... until it isn't.

3MTA3 · May 27, 2021

If you want to know how long that particular one is just count the pic slots and do the math.

Personally get the barrel. muzzle device and the barrel shroud thing that flips up at the same time so you can see for yourself how it looks/feels. And, yeah, any compensator needs to clear hand guard. Also, short barrel = more heat = add an AFG. Can't use VG's on an AR pistol unless it's NFA

edzz · May 27, 2021

1775usmc said:
It looks cool.... until it isn't.

View attachment 893554 View attachment 893555 View attachment 893556

Um, I think I'll stick with my Flaming Pig.

Great pic's.

spookshack · May 27, 2021

I have a couple SBR's. One has an 8" barrel and the other is 8.5". Both have KAK flash cans and 10" handguards installed. Running the 10" handguard gives me just a little bit more real estate vs a 7" or 8" handguard.

TTSX · May 27, 2021

Thanks for the suggestions, guys. Looks like a linear comp is a way to prevent handguard malfunctions/explosions. Perusing other forums suggests to get that look, I should install a handguard 1/2" shorter than the barrel.

Member 34319 · May 28, 2021

AR 22 barrels are a little shorter than regular AR15 barrels due to the bolt face differences. A 7.5" 556 barrel is actually closer to 8.5" in total length due to the barrel extension. So a 7" handguard should cover completely or allow the threads to protrude. A 7.5 inch 22lr barrel usually is pretty close to exactly 7.5" in total length. So 1.5" or so of it is in the receiver and maybe 5-6" protrude out the other end. The same 7" rail will likely cover the barrel completely and have 1-1.5" of space between the end of the barrel and the end of the rail.

You can shoot 22 with the barrel inside a hand guard, it doesn't have the same pressures like 556, you will not split your hand guard like the pictures above. That doesn't mean you won't get gasses or bullet flakes hitting the inner rail or hand.

I would likely get the barrel and rail 1st. Then after having both of those, pick the linear comp length that gets the desired look, whether flush or a bit poking out.

TTSX · May 28, 2021

I've got the lower parts, barrel, BCG and upper on the way. Can't decide on gas block. I like the idea of getting it put together, THEN get the handguard/muzzle device I like. This is gonna be fun

Member 34319 · May 28, 2021

TTSX said:
I've got the lower parts, barrel, BCG and upper on the way. Can't decide on gas block. I like the idea of getting it put together, THEN get the handguard/muzzle device I like. This is gonna be fun

Disregard the parts I brought up about 22lr barrels, for some reason I saw your original post and thought you were trying to put together a 15/22 pistol. I definitely derped that one!

Member 34319 · May 28, 2021

7.5" barrel. Noveske pig (slim one). 9" rail.

spookshack · May 28, 2021

Reno said:
Disregard the parts I brought up about 22lr barrels, for some reason I saw your original post and thought you were trying to put together a 15/22 pistol. I definitely derped that one!

I figured as much as I almost did the exact same thing when I first read it too. Your info is still useful though. Lol

kbuc nw · Jun 24, 2021

looks like a 8-1/2" or 9" hand guard on the pistol. But I agree with the other that you should put it all together and then pick out the handguard that you like.

And the linear comp is a great decision. I like mine.