Handguards

Upgrade your handguard/forend for better control, cooler runs, and smarter mounting on AR-9, AR-15, Beretta and Benelli platforms.

Why upgrade your handguard

• Control: slim profiles and grippy textures improve handling and recoil management.
• Heat: open venting and heat shields help keep hands cooler on long strings.
• Mounting: modern interfaces (M-LOK and top Picatinny sections) for lights, grips, bipods, switches and slings.
• Fit & reach: pick lengths that cover a low-profile gas block, protect a suppressor, or match your stance.

Types of handguards

• Free-float (AR-pattern): clamps to the barrel nut, not the barrel—improves consistency and allows longer, slimmer rails.
• Drop-in / two-piece: quick swaps on many ARs and most shotguns—no receiver disassembly on many models.
• Monolithic/integral: platform-specific systems with uninterrupted top rail; check receiver/trunnion compatibility.

Platform notes

• AR-15: match handguard length to gas system (carbine/mid/rifle) and gas block type (fixed vs. low-profile). Verify barrel-nut pattern.
• AR-9: free-float rails are common; ensure inside diameter clears blowback weights, large muzzle devices, or suppressor “tucks.”
• Beretta shotguns (e.g., 1301/A300): forends are model-specific drop-ins; confirm generation and barrel/mag-tube setup. Many offer M-LOK slots for lights/switches.
• Benelli shotguns (e.g., M2/M4): choose forends by model; verify gas/piston clearance (M4) and magazine-tube interface. M-LOK forends simplify light mounting.

Mounting interfaces

• M-LOK: lightweight, low-profile slots with wide accessory support.
• Top rail: continuous or segmented Picatinny for optics, BUIS, or offset mounts.
• Legacy options: KeyMod and full-rail variants exist for specific builds or rulesets.

Materials & features

• Aluminum: strong, light, good heat dissipation.
• Polymer: light and comfortable; common on shotgun forends and drop-ins.
• Useful features: QD sling s