I'm gonna free float this puppy

[AR-10]

Here is my new little guy:

http://i31.tinypic.com/nbx640.jpg

I just got the upper back after pinning a Vortex to the barrel and I've decided to put an Omega handguard on this upper so here is my question:

Where should I put the sling?

The Omega has a QD hole right next to the barrel nut, but after looking at videos (specifically pertaining to the Viking Tactics 2-point) it looks like keeping the sling at the forward end can add stability in certain shooting positions.

Where do you put yours and why?

[AR-10]

Also, if I end up putting the sling at the forward end, should I remove the existing sling swivel and install a rail-mounted sling adapter?

Seems like a bad idea to free float a barrel while keeping a sling attached to it...

[todd.k]

Keeping a sling attached to the barrel could change your POI if you sling up tight.

I run all my carbines with a sling attached to the same general area the QD is on an Omega.

[TehLlama]

Use the Omega's QD, or add a mount somewhere forward on the rail (RSA, LUSA, DD QD come to mind)

[AR-10]

If I have to move the sling forward I'm going to buy an H&K loop to mount on the handguard so I can use a snap hook at the front.

Also I forgot to ask - do I need a carry handle to "bridge" the Omega before I tighten up all the screws?

[Paulo_Santos]

Also I forgot to ask - do I need a carry handle to "bridge" the Omega before I tighten up all the screws?

You can use the carry handle or anything that will let you bridge the gap to level them.

[AR-10]

That sucks, because I sent the only one I had to my brother in another state.

I think I can borrow a carry handle from someone, I don't have anything else that will work for that purpose.

[AR-10]

Ok I lied, maybe I'm not gonna free float it.

I just came across this while doing some FF vs non-FF research:

http://dynamicarmament.com/items/ar-15-m-16-quad-rail~handguards/rail-7-mrf-di-mrf-c-di-bk-detail.htm

That's a lot cheaper than an Omega and it's got QD holes at both ends which is perfect for someone who can't make up their mind - like me.

So in the end, it looks like I may be going with a regular drop-in system. I just don't see the need to free float my 14.5" government-profile barrel, especially since the bulk of my ammo is 55gr FMJ and I will be shooting at ranges under 200 meters.

Your thoughts please.

[TehLlama]

My MRF-DI is a fantastic rail, I use the front QD cup on it, and really like this setup. My only complaint with it is that I've grown accustomed to more than 7" of handguard space, but it's hard to beat at that price. The only thing I'd change is install blocks to prevent slings swivels from rotating too far.

ETA: Crappy pic
http://i28.tinypic.com/dgq9zo.jpg

[AR-10]

NICE!!! I appreciate the pic, and the info.

So you can actually put something in the holes to turn them into the anti-rotating type?

Also, how exactly does the handguard clamp to your upper? Do you find that is it nice and solid?

I don't mind the minimal rail space, I'm only adding a shorty grip and a Scout on an offset mount.

[TehLlama]

A stubby and Scout on an offset will indeed fit. Lockup should be plenty solid, as long as the handguard cap is in spec it's good. Not sure on making them no-longer antirotating, but I've stopped worrying about the sling twisting with my VCAS.

[AR-10]

Well I got my package today, and I installed my new handguard, stock and sling. I forgot to order a push button swivel, but I have one on the way.

This handguard exceeded my expectations. It took me a whole 30 seconds to install it, and it is ROCK solid.

http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/1462/img0779w.jpg

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/6829/img0775k.jpg

I'll be buying these handguards from now on anytime I need a drop-in rail system.

[TehLlama]

Glad to hear you liked them so much you felt compelled to take nice pictures. Sweet!

[AR-10]

I really am happy with it, you can't beat the price.

One question though - instructions said nothing about using a thread locking compound, it says snug up the four screws by hand and then go a 1/4 turn more.

Did you put any Loctite on yours?

[TehLlama]

A small dab of blue loctite is the correct amount. The brief immersion in blue loctite I did is not the correct amount.