What I needed: A free float MLOK handguard for a mid-length FSGB project.

What I wanted: MLOK on seven sides, an attachment method that wasn't "pinch lock", and budget-friendly.

What I got: KAK Industry 9" MLOK handguard; $105 shipped. The picture on their site isn't accurate; the actual 9" handguard has four complete MLOK slots, and lacks the abbreviated slot at the rear. Weight came in a bit less than advertised, on my scale, at 11.7oz. The rail uses what is commonly described as "wedge lock" attachment. The boss at the bottom rear of the handguard accommodates two wedges that pull toward each other, and against the barrel nut, locking the handguard in place. The bolts pulling the wedges together also interface with grooves in the barrel nut. The handguard has centering tabs as well.

https://kakindustry.com/mlok-handguard-9-inch

What I think (so far): I have no complaints, for what the thing costs. My only immediate gripe was very sharp corners at the front of the picatinny top rail. I hit them with a file and some Aluminum Black. Install is straightforward and everything seems very strong and rigid. The fit around the barrel nut is snug; not as snug as a BCM, or my Wilson, but it doesn't just easily slide on/off the nut. The MLOK slots presented no issues with the attachment of three items. It is not quite the perfect length for a mid length gas system with a FSGB. I knew it'd be about .25" short, based on the advertised length of 9", but it actually measured about 8.875". So I have a bit of gas tube showing; not a deal breaker. I do have an aiming laser mounted, so rigidity in the context of zero retention and deflection will be in play, though I doubt they'll occur to any degree that will make a difference inside reasonable engagement distances.

Anyone looking for a decent budget-minded, USA-made MLOK handguard would do well to look to KAK; as best as I can tell so far, anyway. I'll update this thread with any positive or negative feedback accumulated over time.

Thanks for the review, I wasn't aware of these, and it looks interesting. I like the mounting solution. I've been a fan of the Aero Atlas line, which use a mounting solution similar in concept, although a little different. The KAK solution may actually be better since it wouldn't require shims. My only concern is I don't see what (aside from clamping pressure alone) keeps the handguard indexed and prevents it from rotating around the barrel nut. Have you seen any issues with that?


The Atlas handguards have gotten pretty expensive. This is a much more affordable option. I checked out the KAK website...did you see they make a 9.8" version of this handguard that might solve your issue with the exposed gas block?

The 9.8 would be too long for the mid length FSGB.

The KAK handguard does have tabs that protrude on either side of the receiver, preventing rotation around the barrel nut.

quote:

Originally posted by KSGM:
The 9.8 would be too long for the mid length FSGB.

The KAK handguard does have tabs that protrude on either side of the receiver, preventing rotation around the barrel nut.

Makes sense, and now that you mention the tabs, I think I see what you're talking about on the website. Looks like a solid option! I'd be even happier if they offered one without the full-length rail on the top, but I could live with it.

The handguard has been great so far. I haven't made any special effort to "test" it; I have just been using the rifle normally. I confirmed zero of my IR laser last night, and it hasn't moved; no hardware has loosened; there is no perceived flex of any sort.

I still think it's an amazing option, for what it costs. I don't know of another handguard, of similar price, that touts the same "features".

Thanks for the update. We are thinking about putting together a rifle for my son and I'm seriously thinking about using one of these.