First Thoughts on the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green
In the crowded world of AR-15 handguards, standing out requires a blend of innovation, aesthetics, and rock-solid performance. The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green aims to do just that, promising lightweight construction, ample customization options, and a distinctive look. It’s a handguard that immediately catches the eye with its aggressive skeletonized design and the unique Foliage Green finish.
As someone who’s built and customized AR platforms for over a decade, I’m always on the lookout for components that offer a tangible upgrade in both form and function. I was aiming for a lighter weight build while still maintaining structural integrity and a solid mounting platform for accessories. This handguard seemed to strike the right balance, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
The Rise Armament handguard arrived neatly packaged, immediately showcasing the Foliage Green finish. My initial impression was positive: the color is unique without being garish, and the skeletonized cuts looked clean and purposeful. Compared to a more traditional, solid handguard from Midwest Industries and a carbon fiber option from Lancer, the Rise Armament offered a different aesthetic that piqued my interest. I specifically chose this over other similar handguards due to the combination of the unique color and the Rise Armament reputation for quality.
From the outset, I was excited about the potential of the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green to elevate the look and feel of my AR build, and I couldn’t wait to get it installed and put through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green was at an outdoor shooting range, the perfect setting to evaluate its performance. The weather was fairly mild, but there was a slight breeze kicking up some dust – a common adversary for AR platforms. Installation was straightforward, and the handguard slipped onto the receiver with minimal fuss.
The first thing I noticed was how much lighter the rifle felt with the Rise Armament handguard. The M-LOK slots provided ample space to mount my foregrip and weapon light, and everything felt secure and well-placed. Even after several magazines, the handguard remained relatively cool to the touch, a testament to its efficient heat dissipation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR. I have taken it to several training courses in various weather conditions. Despite being subjected to mud, rain, and plenty of bumps and scrapes, the Foliage Green finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear.
Cleaning the handguard is a breeze, thanks to its open skeletonized design. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove most of the grime and carbon buildup. Compared to some other handguards I’ve used in the past, the Rise Armament has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green
Specifications
The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green boasts some impressive specifications. Weighing in at just 9 oz, this handguard significantly reduces the overall weight of the rifle. It features a full-length Picatinny top rail for optics mounting and M-LOK slots along the sides and bottom for accessory attachment.
The handguard is precision CNC machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, ensuring strength and durability. The MIL-A-8625F, Type III, Class 2, hard anodized flat black finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, while the Foliage Green Carakote offers a unique aesthetic appeal. These specifications contribute significantly to the handguard’s performance, providing a lightweight yet robust platform for accessories and optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green performs exceptionally well in its role. It provides a stable and secure mounting platform for various accessories, allowing for improved weapon handling and control. The free-floating design enhances accuracy by minimizing barrel contact.
The handguard excels in heat dissipation, keeping the shooter’s hands comfortable even during rapid fire. One minor drawback is that the skeletonized design can allow more debris to enter the handguard area, requiring more frequent cleaning in certain environments. Overall, the Rise Armament handguard meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green is top-notch. The 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction feels solid and durable, while the skeletonized design keeps the weight to a minimum. The handguard is comfortable to grip, even for extended periods, and the M-LOK slots are precisely machined for easy accessory attachment.
The installation process is straightforward, thanks to the included steel barrel nut and hardware. The handguard’s ergonomic design and high-quality construction make it a pleasure to use and handle.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to its robust construction and durable finish, the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green is built to last. The hard anodized finish resists scratches, corrosion, and wear, even under demanding conditions. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
With proper care, this handguard should provide years of reliable service. The high-quality materials and construction ensure long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green is highly compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories. The M-LOK slots allow for easy attachment of foregrips, weapon lights, lasers, and other tactical accessories. The full-length Picatinny top rail provides ample space for mounting optics, such as red dot sights, scopes, and holographic sights.
The handguard is designed to be compatible with most standard AR-15 uppers and barrels, offering a high degree of customization. The Rise Armament handguard is a versatile platform for building a customized AR-15.
Pros and Cons of Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green
Pros
- Lightweight Design: At only 9 oz, it significantly reduces overall rifle weight.
- M-LOK Compatibility: Offers versatile accessory mounting options.
- Free-Floating Design: Enhances accuracy by minimizing barrel contact.
- Durable Construction: CNC machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum.
- Unique Aesthetics: The Foliage Green finish provides a distinctive look.
Cons
- Skeletonized Design: Can allow more debris to enter the handguard area.
- Price: Slightly higher price point compared to some basic handguards.
Who Should Buy Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green?
The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts looking to build a lightweight and highly customizable rifle. It’s an excellent choice for competitive shooters, tactical users, and anyone who appreciates a unique and aggressive aesthetic. Those prioritizing weight savings and accessory mounting flexibility will find this handguard to be an ideal upgrade.
However, individuals who primarily shoot in extremely dirty or dusty environments might want to consider a more enclosed handguard design to minimize debris accumulation. Similarly, budget-conscious builders may find more affordable options available, though they might sacrifice some of the premium features and aesthetics offered by the Rise Armament. A quality forward grip and weapon light are must-have accessories to maximize the handguard’s functionality and enhance the overall shooting experience.
Conclusion on Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green
In summary, the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green is a premium AR-15 upgrade that delivers on its promises. Its lightweight design, M-LOK compatibility, and unique aesthetics make it a standout option in a crowded market. The price is justified by the high-quality materials, precision manufacturing, and enhanced performance it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Foliage Green to anyone looking to elevate their AR-15 build. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a tactical enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a well-designed and functional firearm component, this handguard is sure to impress. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the Rise Armament difference!