First Impressions of Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard
The lever-action rifle, a symbol of the Old West, has seen a resurgence in popularity, finding its way into the hands of modern shooters for hunting, sport, and even tactical applications. However, the classic wood furniture often leaves something to be desired in terms of customization and accessory mounting options. The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard seeks to bridge that gap, offering a modern M-LOK compatible forend for Henry lever-action rifles chambered in .357 Magnum. Does it deliver on its promise?
As an avid outdoorsman and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated the simplicity and reliability of lever guns. But I’ve also longed for the ability to easily mount lights, lasers, and other accessories. I was looking for a way to modernize my Henry .357 without sacrificing its classic appeal.
My first impression upon unboxing the Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard was positive. The hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum felt robust and well-finished, and the M-LOK slots were cleanly cut. It immediately looked like a quality piece of kit.
Compared to other lever-action handguards on the market, the Midwest Industries option stood out for its slim profile and integrated sling swivel mount. I considered a few other options, but ultimately chose this one for its balance of features and aesthetics. I was immediately excited to install it and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard took place at my local shooting range. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing. I focused on evaluating the handguard’s ergonomics, accessory mounting capability, and overall impact on the rifle’s handling.
The M-LOK slots made it easy to attach a weapon light and a vertical foregrip. This significantly improved my control and stability, particularly during rapid firing drills. No issues were encountered during this first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve used it extensively during hunting trips and range sessions. It has held up well to the rigors of outdoor use.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The hard coat anodized finish has resisted scratches and abrasions. Cleaning is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a cloth is generally sufficient.
Compared to my previous setup with the factory wood furniture, the Midwest Industries handguard provides a far superior platform for accessory mounting and overall handling. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard
Specifications
Manufacturer: Midwest Industries. They are a well-known and respected manufacturer of firearm accessories.
Gun Model: Universal, designed to fit most Henry lever-action rifles without barrel bands.
Handguard Length: 13.625 inches. This provides ample space for mounting accessories and supporting the rifle.
Color: Black, for a sleek and tactical appearance.
Gun Rail: M-LOK, offering a versatile and widely supported attachment system. M-LOK allows for direct attachment of accessories, reducing bulk and weight compared to Picatinny rails.
Finish: Hard Coat Anodized, enhancing durability and corrosion resistance.
Gun Make: Henry, specifically designed for Henry lever-action rifles. This ensures a proper fit and seamless integration.
Condition: New, guaranteeing a pristine and undamaged product.
Handguard Material: 6061 Aluminum, providing a lightweight yet strong construction. 6061 aluminum is a common material in firearm accessories due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Weight: 7.4 oz, keeping the rifle lightweight and maneuverable.
Mount Type: M-LOK, for secure and reliable accessory attachment. This mounting system is known for its robust design and ease of use.
Country of Origin: USA, ensuring high-quality manufacturing and materials.
These specifications highlight the handguard’s focus on durability, functionality, and ease of use. The M-LOK compatibility and lightweight design make it a practical and versatile upgrade for Henry lever-action rifles.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting accessories. It significantly enhances the rifle’s handling and ergonomics.
The handguard’s strengths lie in its robust construction, slim profile, and M-LOK compatibility. The only potential weakness is the initial installation, which may be intimidating for some users. However, the improved functionality far outweighs this minor inconvenience.
The handguard meets and exceeds my expectations. It has transformed my Henry .357 into a more versatile and capable firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard features a well-thought-out design. It’s constructed from high-quality materials and feels comfortable in the hand. The weight is minimal, ensuring it does not negatively impact the rifle’s balance.
The handguard is generally user-friendly, although the installation process may require some familiarity with firearm disassembly. Once installed, it provides a seamless and ergonomic shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard is built to last. The hard coat anodized aluminum is highly resistant to wear and tear. Regular maintenance is minimal.
Cleaning typically involves a simple wipe-down with a cloth. The robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard comes with one 5-slot M-LOK rail section. This allows for the attachment of Picatinny rail-mounted accessories. It is compatible with a wide range of M-LOK accessories from various brands.
The M-LOK system provides ample opportunity for customization. Users can easily attach lights, lasers, foregrips, and other accessories to suit their individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard
Pros
- Enhanced Accessory Mounting: M-LOK system allows for versatile and secure attachment of lights, lasers, and other accessories.
- Improved Handling: Slim and ergonomic design enhances comfort and control.
- Durable Construction: Hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy to Install: Straightforward installation process with common tools (despite some initial intimidation).
- Modernized Aesthetics: Gives the classic Henry lever-action a contemporary tactical look.
Cons
- Installation may be intimidating for novice gun owners.
- The included 5-slot M-LOK rail section might be insufficient for some users, requiring additional purchases.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard?
The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard is perfect for Henry lever-action rifle owners who want to modernize their firearm and add accessory mounting options. This is ideal for hunters who want to mount lights for low-light conditions. It’s a great addition for tactical shooters who want to improve control and stability.
Those who prefer the classic look and feel of traditional wood furniture may want to skip this product. This is also something to avoid for individuals uncomfortable with basic firearm disassembly and reassembly.
Must-have accessories include M-LOK compatible lights, lasers, and foregrips. A gunsmith might be beneficial if you’re not comfortable with the installation process.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard
The Midwest Industries Henry M-LOK .357 Handguard is a well-designed and durable upgrade that significantly enhances the functionality and versatility of Henry lever-action rifles. It offers a practical solution for those seeking to modernize their firearm and add accessory mounting options.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and improved handling. This is a worthy investment for serious shooters.
I would personally recommend it to any Henry lever-action owner looking to enhance their rifle’s capabilities. Upgrade your Henry today and experience the difference!