My dad is looking to replace the default handguards that he got with his PSA 16 inch upper a few months ago. He doesn’t want to spend more than $160. This upper did come with a front sight post. He currently runs a budget Bushnell Dot on it. I think he has it co-witnessed or at least would like to do so. Basically he needs a handguard set that preferably incorporates the existing front sight post. However, if a good deal or product is out there, he’s not opposed to removing the front sight post as he already has a Magpul FBUS. I don’t think he really cares about Key Mod vs MLock vs Standard (since from my understanding everything is going to be backwards compatible and I don’t see him running a huge lights and laser side setup), so it doesn’t have to be a deciding factor, I just figure standard or Keymod will be best.
$160 will be hard to find new. Even the Midwest Ind. models suggest for $200 retail. The used market would be a good place to start.
I assume you’re looking to get away from the generic, useless except as a handguard style hand guard. If he just wants a different guard for feel preference, try the Magpul handguards.
In the $200 range, my blanket answer for anyone wanting keymod would be Midwest Industries SSK series, as it seems to be the most bang for the buck. I don’t own one, but I’ve handled rifles with them and like the size/weight/feel.
Gentlemen thank you very much for your suggestions. I’ll be very happy to report back to my dad with these choices. I was also suggested Strike Industries one with a FSP gap and also MI products in a few places). I truthfully think he’ll like the option that only requires a gas block switch or incorporates it as opposed to a shave which I’m not sure if he’d feel comfortable doing or just wouldn’t want to risk a fubar.
I have a 12" FSP and a 9" Midwest Industries two-piece free float rail, and I really like them for the money. They use the factory barrel nut, and in my shooting have held rock solid. If he wants to free float, that’s a great option. I got the 12" on sale at Midway, with Midway money and a holiday coupon, for about $75 out of pocket. Got the 9" on eBay for $111 shipped. For your dad’s rifle, BCM has the 9" for $165 right now.
Magpul Moe would be my choice now. I have realized that I don’t really need a rail. I use an Elzetta 1500 light mount and only use the bottom rail for an AFG 2 , so there isn’t really a need for a rail. I also prefer a FSB vs a low pro gas block. But that is what I love about the AR PLATFORM, you can deck it out just the way you like. A have gotten all of rails on the EE for under $100, TROY, MI, and KAC just to name a few.
Why does he want a rail? What will he do with it? These are questions that should be asked. I also recommend keeping the current set up and then purchase the correct rail. If the FSB isn’t bothering him, then leave it alone and use a rail like the Centurion Arms C4.
When I took Mike Pannone’s carbine course a few years ago, he spoke highly of the YHM handguards. They are in the price range you seek. I have not seen or touched this product personally.