SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ Review

The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ Made a Bold First Impression

In the ever-evolving landscape of AR-15 customization, the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ emerges as a serious contender. This isn’t just another handguard; it’s a statement. Manufactured by Sharps Bros., known for their aggressive designs and quality craftsmanship, this ultralite M-LOK handguard promises to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your AR-15.

My quest for the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ began when I was assembling a new lightweight AR-15 build. I needed a handguard that wouldn’t add unnecessary weight, while still providing ample real estate for accessories and a solid, comfortable grip. Many of the handguards I encountered either lacked the aggressive styling I was looking for or were too bulky for my build requirements.

Unboxing the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″, my initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The finish was impeccable, a smooth, matte black that speaks to quality and durability. The weight was noticeably light, a testament to its “ultralite” design.

Comparing it to a similar length handguard from a different manufacturer, a Midwest Industries Combat Rail, the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ felt noticeably slimmer and slightly lighter. While the Midwest Industries rail is a proven performer, the Sharps Bros. offering possessed a more aggressive aesthetic that aligned perfectly with my desired rifle build. Compared to a heavier, quad-rail system from Daniel Defense, the weight savings were significant. I chose the Sharps Bros. because of its balance of weight, aesthetics, and functionality.

Honestly, I was excited! The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ seemed to deliver on its promise of being a lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and functional addition to my AR-15. It was time to see if its performance matched its initial impression.

Real-World Testing: Putting SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ was at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for testing its handling and accessory mounting capabilities. I put it through its paces on a course with various targets, from close-quarters drills to longer-range shots.

The handguard performed admirably. Its slim profile provided a comfortable and secure grip, even during rapid firing sequences. Mounting accessories, such as a foregrip and weapon light, was straightforward thanks to the M-LOK slots.

There were no immediate issues after the first use. Everything felt solid and secure. The lightweight design was particularly noticeable when transitioning between targets.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR-15. The finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear despite being subjected to various conditions, including exposure to rain and mud during a hunting trip.

Cleaning the handguard is simple. A quick wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The anodized finish resists corrosion and makes maintenance relatively effortless.

Compared to a previous, bulkier handguard I used, the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ has been a significant improvement in terms of handling and weight. It has enhanced my overall shooting experience and has proven its value in real-world scenarios.

Breaking Down the Features of SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″

Specifications

• Length: 13.7 inches. This provides ample space for comfortable hand placement and accessory mounting.
• Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum. This ensures a lightweight yet durable construction.
• Attachment: Standard AR-15 barrel nut. This makes installation relatively simple and compatible with most AR-15 uppers.
• M-LOK Compatibility: M-LOK slots along the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions. This allows for versatile accessory mounting options.
• Weight: Ultralight design (specific weight not provided in product details, but advertised as such). This contributes to improved rifle handling and maneuverability.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the rifle’s weight, balance, and functionality. The 13.7-inch length is ideal for those seeking a longer handguard without excessive weight. The M-LOK system provides a modern and efficient way to mount accessories.

Performance & Functionality

The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ excels in its primary function: providing a stable and comfortable platform for gripping and mounting accessories. Accuracy is not directly impacted by the handguard itself, but the enhanced grip and stability it provides can indirectly improve shooting performance. Its reliability has been excellent; I have experienced no issues with loosening or shifting.

The primary strength of the handguard is its balance of lightweight design and robust construction. It offers ample space for accessories without adding unnecessary bulk. The only potential weakness is that the aggressive styling might not appeal to everyone.

The handguard has met and exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade to my AR-15.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ is excellent. The aircraft-grade aluminum feels solid and well-machined. The slim profile and smooth finish make it comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.

The installation process is straightforward for anyone familiar with AR-15 assembly. A standard AR-15 barrel nut wrench is required. There is no significant learning curve associated with using the handguard.

Durability & Maintenance

The anodized finish appears to be very durable and resistant to scratches and wear. Based on my experience so far, I expect the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ to last for many years. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe down after use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ does not come with any included accessories. The M-LOK slots allow for a wide range of customization options. It is compatible with any M-LOK compatible accessories, including foregrips, weapon lights, lasers, and rail sections.

Popular brands like Magpul, BCM (Bravo Company Manufacturing), and Arisaka Defense offer a wide variety of M-LOK accessories that are compatible with this handguard. The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ is a blank canvas for customizing your AR-15 to your specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″

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Who Should Buy SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″?

The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts who value lightweight design, aggressive aesthetics, and versatile accessory mounting options. It’s a great choice for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone looking to upgrade the handguard on their AR-15.

This product might not be ideal for those who prefer a more traditional or minimalist aesthetic. It also might not be the best choice for those on a very tight budget, as there are cheaper handguard options available.

A must-have accessory for this handguard is a set of M-LOK rail covers to improve grip and protect the M-LOK slots when not in use. A quality foregrip is also highly recommended for enhanced control and stability.

Conclusion on SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″

The SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ is a well-designed and well-executed upgrade for any AR-15. Its lightweight construction, slim profile, M-LOK compatibility, and aggressive styling make it a standout product in a crowded market.

At $125.49, the price is justified by the quality of the materials and the overall performance of the handguard. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their AR-15’s functionality and aesthetics.

I would definitely recommend the SHARPS BROS. HANDGUARD 13.7″ to anyone looking for a high-quality, lightweight, and aggressively styled handguard for their AR-15. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!

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