Looking for handguard w stock gas block

[CRL2]

Hello.  Just picked up an Armalite AR10 DEF10.  This is my third Armalite rifle and have had great luck with them.  I want to add a free float handguard without changing the stock gas block.  Looking for 14 or longer handguard.  Want to use small light and bipod.  Any ideas?  Thanks.

[jtallen83]

Why not swap the gas block for a low profile and widen your selection of handguards considerably?

I can't say I've ever seen a 15 inch + FF handguard for the AR-10 that would let you keep the stock railed gas block, might be one out there though........

[CRL2]

Thought about it but crazy busy.  Have never replaced a gas block.  Does not look that hard but hunting season coming soon and don't want to trouble shoot etc.  Gun shoots great and just don't want to screw with it too much right now.

[98Z5V]

Gas block changing is about the easiest thing you can do, seriously.  You don't need to modify the gas system to do this.  One definite bonus is that the DEF10 uses two pinch bolts to hold it on the barrel - it's not pinned.  That makes it much easier.

Don't know of any rails or handguards that are gonna clear the size of that stock gas block.  They might be out there, but nothing jumps out at me as an obvious choice. 

If you're super busy - just take it to a good AR gunsmith with the parts you want installed, and drop it off... 

Edited September 8, 2015 by 98Z5V

[CRL2]

OK.  I'm going to give it a shot!  Can someone reccomend a gas block for this rifle?

[CRL2]

Well that was a stupid question.  Looks like Armalite makes one.  Any experience with these?

[98Z5V]

Anything 0.750" diameter, low profile.  There are many out there that aren't too expensive.  You don't need a new gas tube or gas tube roll pin - save the pin once you remove it. 

You will need a small hammer (Small!) and some roll pin punches - you can get the punches at Harbor Freight and they'll be cheap, and get this job done.

You'll need to pick an Armalite AR-10 compatible handguard, too.  If you can find one that uses the stock barrel nut, that's less work and less tools required.  You'll need something to secure the upper receiver, some type of vise block.  Some of the Armalite guys can get in here and make specific recommendations to you on those parts.

[Rsquared]

As 98 said. Be careful when ordering any handguard. Make sure it's for an "Armalite" AR-10. A lot of manufactures (and some retailers) call a ton of stuff AR-10 parts when they're not. As far as finding one. They're around. Check the regulars.....Ranier, Brownells, Midway. Then you can get pricier. Apex, SWS, PRI (carbon fiber) and others. Hell, even Armalite is putting out some more options to FF rails these days.

 

As said, just be careful when ordering dude. That's the most important thing. Read descriptions CAREFULLY. Holler out if you need too.

[jtallen83]

Midwest Industries have several choices and list specifically for the AR-10;

 

https://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=190

You can get a gas block from them as well;

https://www.midwestindustriesinc.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=253

 

[CRL2]

Excellent.  Thanks guys.  Will keep updated.