Changing Handguards

[Flux Capacitor]

How hard is it to change the handguards and installing an aftermarket 4-rail handguard that can accept a forward pistol grip. Thanks

[leelaw]

Depends on the aftermarket handguards. Removing the originals is easy - the replacement... varies by make and model.

[FinweElensar]

From ar15.com:

http://ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=4&t=226782

Rex Grosmann for MVP!

[kmk]

Wihtout The Tool It Takes 2 People.,.,prepare To Loose Skin

[NSR500]

It is possible to remove the stock HG's without a tool and without loosing skin, but you have to have the right technique.
I typically place the buttstock down and pull down on the ring with both hands while slipping my index into the gap created on the HG's.
If you have small hands, you may have a problem though...
As for installation of aftermarket HG's, it depends on what kind. Some, like the ARMS and the VLTOR can mount without removing the delta or barrel nut. Some other are a bit more advanced so pick one you like and see if there is an online set of instructions for installation. You can then choose the one that fits your mechanical ability. Good Luck...

[DedEye]

I never used a tool to remove or replace standard A2 handguards. Plenty of people I know had trouble with removing them, but I just braced the rifle stock on the ground and pulled down to take the HG's off without trouble. Midwest Industries rail setup is designed to install just like the standard handguards, no idea about how to install the free float or other exotic setups.