Midwest Industries Gen 2 Two-Piece Free-Float Mid-Length Handguard Review
As an avid gun enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Midwest Industries Gen 2 Two-Piece Free-Float Mid-Length Handguard (hereinafter referred to as the "Handguard"). In this review, I’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall value of this product.
Unboxing and Build Quality
The Handguard arrived in a sturdy cardboard box with a clear plastic window, showcasing the product’s sleek, matte-finish design. Upon opening the box, I was impressed by the robust build quality and attention to detail. The Handguard itself is made from a combination of aluminum and Kevlar, resulting in a durable and lightweight construction.
Ease of Installation
Installing the Handguard was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive design and clear instructions. I was able to swap it out with my existing handguard in under 30 minutes, without any issues. The Handguard’s mount system is cleverly designed, allowing for a snug fit and secure attachment to the rifle’s upper receiver.
Features and Design
Here are some of the key features and design elements of the Handguard:
• Free-Float Design: The Handguard is designed to float freely above the barrel, allowing for a clear shot and reducing interference with the rifling.
• Mid-Length: The Handguard’s mid-length design (12.1" long) provides a good balance between maneuverability and ergonomics.
• Two-Piece Construction: The Handguard is comprised of two main pieces: the main body and the attached rail sections.
• Picatinny Rails: The Handguard features a total of 13 Picatinny rails (9 main and 4 accessory rails) for mounting optics, lasers, and other accessories.
• Ambidextrous QD Sling Swivel: The Handguard comes with an ambidextrous quick-detach sling swivel, making it easy to quickly attach and detach the sling.
Pros and Cons:
Here’s a summary of my experience with the Handguard, including both the strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Durable and well-built: The Handguard’s construction is robust and shows no signs of wear or damage after extensive use.
- Easy to install and maintain: The Handguard is designed for intuitive installation and easy maintenance, making it a great choice for those looking for a hassle-free upgrade.
- Excellent rail system: The Picatinny rail design provides ample room for mounting accessories, and the rail sections are easy to adjust and lock in place.
- Comfortable design: The Handguard’s ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
Cons:
- Some weight: The Handguard adds a significant amount of weight to the rifle, although this is to be expected given its durable construction.
- Not ideal for super-compact builds: If you’re looking for an extremely lightweight build, the Handguard might add too much bulk for your liking.
- Minor cosmetic issues: During installation, I found a small number of minor cosmetic imperfections, such as slight scratches or excess silicone lubricant residue. However, these were easily removable with a soft cloth and some elbow grease.
Conclusion
The Midwest Industries Gen 2 Two-Piece Free-Float Mid-Length Handguard is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and feature-packed handguard. While it may have some minor drawbacks, the Handguard’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re in the market for a reliable and ergonomic handguard, I highly recommend considering this product.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation
I’d highly recommend this Handguard to:
- Anyone looking for a reliable and durable handguard
- Those seeking a high-quality, feature-packed rail system
- Shooters who value ease of installation and maintenance
However, I’d suggest exploring alternative options for:
- Those seeking a super-compact, ultra-lightweight build
- Individuals with very specific, highly custom design requirements
Ultimately, the Midwest Industries Gen 2 Two-Piece Free-Float Mid-Length Handguard is a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-performance, feature-rich handguard.
