I was wondering if any quality alternatives to the AK 100 series handguard exist? The shape and contouring just does not agree with my extra large hand as well as I would like. I have considered getting an Ultimak lower and putting rail guards on it, but am concerned about the expense and added weight.
On the topic of added weight, does anyone know the weight of the Ultimak lower rail? I looked on their website and did not come across it.
Thanks.
This is what I’ve done with mine - a Tapco Interfuse lower and a Magpul AFG (version 1). I didn’t really care for the AFG on the AR but on the AK with the narrow Tapco lower handguard, it feels fine in my small mitt! The two parts look like they were made for each other too.
How does it do in terms of heat and stability? Although I have no personal experience, Tapco doesn’t seem to be very popular.
I hear you, I just picked up that exact combo to try out. I haven’t even insalled them yet. I would think that the AFG would not conduct heat but then again I haven’t shot with one on the AK yet.
I don’t think even Tapco could F**K up a plastic hand guard that counts as a US part so I bought one to try. Results pending.
If you need grip further out on the barrel then the Ultimak is really the only viable solution.
Thanks for the responses. The Tapco is apparently heat shielded, so I have hope. As long as it remains stable and doesn’t melt in my hand, what could go wrong?
Do any of you guys know its weight, and are the rails on the bottom aluminum or polymer?
Accessory availability is definitely an area where the AR shines.
The Tapco Intrafuse lower is pretty beefy. It has a flimsy heat shield but I removed it to make room for the Ultimak mounting brackets. I did have to make some minor clearance cuts with a Dremel to fit the Intrafuse to the Ultimak.
I’d think you’d have to dump a lot of mags to cause any concern or trouble in regards to heat. I think most of the heat will dissipate out the top through the Ultimak.
After sleeping on it, I’ve decided to jump in and make my AK very close to yours. The only differences will be 14x1L threads with a JTAC to save some weight up front. I also won’t be going the shortened/pinned route in case I want to switch over to a flash hider in certain situations. I’ll keep you guys updated with my progress…
There are other options, just more expensive. I have an AK with the Ultimak, ‘long’ rail system. Brings it out all the way to the front of the gas block.
Dave, I might have miss communicated but the Utlimak lower rail is what I was referencing whether the OP wanted to go with the standard or long it would still give him more restate than the short.
Does anybody know the weight of the ultimake lower rail? I have been looking but unable to find it.
Thanks again.
I don’t know we have been too covered up to get that for you but they are heavy as can be.
We cut them to bits in the shop to get weight down.
We do this more and more for people.
Very nice work on the Ultimak handguard. 
Thank you