The question about heat is asked all the time on the smaller diameter hand guards. I guess it depends on how much and how fast you shoot and of coarse how soft your hands are. Very few people ever have issues with heat on our current models. Most all can run a class and never have heat issues. For those that are sensitive you can either wear gloves or install panels. I personally do not use either . As far as helping the barrel cool all models have plenty of slots to get good air flow for the barrel to shed heat.
thanks
Troy
MI
Thanks. Cool handguards. 
I’ve run the 12" gen2 SS (oval slots original flavor) in a number of two-gun matches where the barrel gets very hot, and have never had a heat issue. I am running my bare hand around the handguard about 8-10" out from the nut. Most people won’t have a problem and if you do the answer is gloves or a vertical grip that you hold onto (that is, used like a broomhandle, not used like a handstop).
The long handguards help because you are less likely to touch the barrel or gas block by accident. Those will get your attention.
Check out this great video from VSO channel on installation.
In the video the gentleman applied an “adhesive” to the barrel nut where it contacts the Handguard. Is this recommended and or required?
The rail looks great! It looks like it will pair nicely with a future build.
MI stuff is great, but I just got a ssk15 in July lol.
Also got an OG ssg12, and a MI ak handguard.
We recommend using it as it makes for a very bullet proof installation. We include it with the hand guard.We have tested with out using it and had no issues but since most everyone does not remove their hand guards once they are installed .We say use it.
Troy
MI
Very nice revision and addresses my issues with the rail. Wish I had waited before buying my SSM, but I’m sure I’ll be fine with my light use.
As far as heat goes, for me the problem is not so much how hot it gets while shooting, but how hot it gets while sitting in the Vegas sun. I use rail panels.
While recommended, I chose not to use it for ease of removal. I am running an AR-10 style gun and have about 300 rounds of 175SMK with no issues.
I’m glad you’re sticking with small diameter, there are other options for large.
Do you plan on a lightweight version with most of the top rail milled off like you do for the earlier M-Lok and Keymod rails?
Yes there will be lightweight versions. We will be offering a new larger diameter hand guard later on also.
thanks
Troy
MI
Will this work for 300 BO? Thanks
Why not? We make 300 B.O rifles and pistols now with our g2 hand guards on them. All different types and configurations.
No sweat
Troy
MI
Sweet I’ll be getting the 9 inch then to try out
Hi all! I’m new to MI products so can someone explain what this has that is different from the SSK 15? I was heavily researching that rail so I was wondering if the gen 3 is a significant upgrade over it. Thanks!
The gen3 k series will have seven sides of Key mod slots.
The SSK has three sides of keymod slots.
Troy
MI
Another question… will this work with the old barrel nuts or no? I know it’s different but don’t know if it’s compatible. I have a pinned/welded gun with a G2 SS that I’d kinda like to update, I know the older ones all used the same.
This is a whole new setup, and though it looks similar the parts are not interchangeable.
Time to do another build!
Here is a teaser picture for you guys and gals of the new Gen 3 lightweight. 
