Let’s Dive into Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15
The Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 is a simple, yet potentially invaluable, accessory for anyone who owns an AR-15 and plans to swap out their handguards. Midwest Industries, a name synonymous with quality AR parts and accessories, offers this tool as a solution to a common frustration: wrestling with the delta ring. For just under $20, it promises to make handguard removal a breeze.
I’ve spent years tinkering with AR platforms, and I’ve always considered handguard removal a necessary evil involving brute force, improvised levers, and a high probability of scratching something. The problem I was hoping to solve was simple: a more controlled and less frustrating handguard removal process.
Upon unboxing, the Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 feels solid, if a bit basic. The steel construction gives it a reassuring weight, and the rubber coating, while seemingly thin, suggests an attempt to protect the rifle’s finish. It’s a far cry from some of the more elaborate (and expensive) handguard tools on the market.
I’ve seen similar tools, like the UTG AR-15 Armorer’s Handguard Tool, but the Midwest Industries option appealed to me because of its simplicity and compact design. I considered a more elaborate vise block system but decided it was overkill for my needs. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; it looked like a functional tool, but the long-term durability of the rubber coating was a concern.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 in my garage while swapping out the standard A2 handguards on my AR-15 for a free-float rail. The garage environment was relatively clean and dry, providing a controlled testing ground. The tool’s performance was immediately noticeable.
Using the tool made compressing the delta ring significantly easier, allowing me to remove the handguards with minimal effort. However, I did notice that the bottom hook, which is designed to anchor in the magwell, slipped out a couple of times, requiring me to readjust my grip and apply more pressure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and three handguard swaps, the Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 shows some signs of wear. The rubber coating on the arms that contact the delta ring has begun to tear in places, revealing the bare steel underneath. Despite this, the tool remains functional.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is all that’s needed to remove any residue. While the tool simplifies handguard removal, the fragility of the rubber coating is a drawback compared to previous (albeit more caveman-like) methods.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 is constructed from steel, providing a durable core. It features a black finish and a rubberized coating on the contact points. The tool is made in the USA.
These specifications contribute directly to the tool’s functionality. The steel ensures that the tool can withstand the force required to compress the delta ring, while the rubber coating aims to protect the rifle’s finish (though, as my experience shows, its effectiveness is limited).
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 is to simplify the removal and installation of AR-15 handguards. It achieves this by providing a mechanical advantage to compress the delta ring, freeing up the user’s hands to manipulate the handguards.
The tool excels at compressing the delta ring, but the short magwell hook and the fragile rubber coating are areas for improvement. The tool generally meets expectations for ease of use, but long-term durability is a concern.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 is designed for simplicity and ease of use. The steel construction gives it a solid feel, but the overall design is somewhat basic. There’s minimal ergonomic consideration beyond the rubber coating, which provides a degree of grip and protection.
The tool is generally user-friendly, although the short magwell hook can require some practice to use effectively. The learning curve is minimal; anyone familiar with AR-15s will quickly understand its operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 suggests reasonable longevity, but the rubber coating is a weak point. With repeated use, the coating will likely tear, exposing the steel underneath and potentially scratching the rifle’s delta ring.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. Repairing the rubber coating would likely involve using products like Plasti Dip or electrical tape to provide a protective barrier.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options. It’s designed to be a standalone tool for a specific purpose. The tool is broadly compatible with most standard AR-15 delta ring assemblies.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15Pros
- Makes handguard removal significantly easier compared to using brute force alone.
- The steel construction provides a solid and durable core.
- It is inexpensive and affordable for most AR-15 owners.
- Compact design makes it easy to store and transport.
- Simplifies the process for beginners and experienced users alike.
Cons
- The rubber coating is fragile and prone to tearing with repeated use.
- The short magwell hook can slip out, requiring readjustment.
- Lack of ergonomic design can make it slightly awkward to use for extended periods.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15?
Pros
- Makes handguard removal significantly easier compared to using brute force alone.
- The steel construction provides a solid and durable core.
- It is inexpensive and affordable for most AR-15 owners.
- Compact design makes it easy to store and transport.
- Simplifies the process for beginners and experienced users alike.
Cons
- The rubber coating is fragile and prone to tearing with repeated use.
- The short magwell hook can slip out, requiring readjustment.
- Lack of ergonomic design can make it slightly awkward to use for extended periods.
The Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 is perfect for AR-15 owners who frequently swap out their handguards. It’s also a great tool for beginners who are just starting to learn about AR-15 maintenance and modifications. Anyone who values ease of use and wants to avoid scratching their rifle’s finish (at least initially) will appreciate this tool.
Someone who only occasionally removes their handguards might not find the tool necessary, as alternative methods (using a friend, or sheer force) can suffice. If you demand ultimate durability and are willing to spend more, a higher-end tool with a more robust coating might be a better option.
A must-have accessory to pair with the Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 would be a set of quality gunsmithing punches for other tasks. Applying Plasti Dip or electrical tape to the contact points on the tool is a sensible modification to prolong the life of the protective coating.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15
The Midwest Industries Hand Guard Removal Tool For Ar-15 is a worthwhile investment for AR-15 owners who regularly work on their rifles. While the rubber coating is a clear weakness, the tool’s overall functionality and ease of use outweigh this drawback.
The price is certainly justified, considering the time and frustration it saves. I would recommend this tool to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to remove AR-15 handguards. For around $20, it’s a solid addition to any gun owner’s toolkit. Pick one up and stop fighting with that delta ring!