Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze Review

First Thoughts on the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze

The AR-15 is a platform ripe for customization, and the handguard is a critical component, both functionally and aesthetically. The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze immediately grabbed my attention with its aggressive styling and promises of lightweight performance. It’s a component that screams “upgrade,” offering not just a change in looks, but also enhanced modularity with its M-LOK compatibility and a full-length Picatinny top rail.

For years, I’ve been battling the trade-off between weight and functionality when it comes to AR-15 handguards. I wanted a handguard that could accommodate my various accessories—lights, lasers, grips—without turning my rifle into a boat anchor. The skeletonized design promised to address this issue directly.

My first experience was unboxing the handguard. The Spartan Bronze finish is striking – a unique, eye-catching alternative to the usual black, FDE, or grey. The machining quality appeared excellent, and the handguard felt remarkably light in hand, instilling confidence in its design.

I considered handguards from Midwest Industries and Aero Precision, both reputable brands. However, the Rise Armament offering stood out due to its distinctive look and claims of aerospace-grade manufacturing. The promise of stricter quality control sold me on trying it out.

I was definitely excited. The potential for enhanced ergonomics, reduced weight, and improved aesthetics had me eager to install the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze and get it to the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range, a setting that offers a mix of controlled conditions and exposure to the elements. The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze was subjected to a full day of shooting drills in sunny, relatively dry conditions. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the easy slip-on alignment.

The handguard performed well, providing a comfortable and secure grip during rapid firing exercises. The M-LOK slots allowed for quick and easy attachment of my foregrip and weapon light, and the skeletonized design allowed for great heat dissipation. After several magazine dumps, the handguard was warm, not searing.

The only minor issue I encountered was a slight adjustment needed to my optic; the new handguard introduced a slightly different cheek weld. However, this was easily resolved with a minor reticle adjustment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a carbine course in mixed weather conditions, the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze has proven to be remarkably durable. I have put approximately 1000 rounds down range with the new handguard. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the Spartan Bronze finish, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional bump against barricades.

Maintenance is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. This is mostly due to the MIL-A-8625F, Type III, Class 2, hard anodized finish. The open design of the skeletonized handguard helps prevent the build-up of grime.

In comparison to my previous experience with a heavier, quad-rail handguard, the Rise Armament handguard is a significant improvement. It has significantly improved the rifle’s handling and maneuverability without compromising functionality. The product definitely outperforms the prior.

Breaking Down the Features of Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze

Specifications

• Weight: At only 9 oz. (for the 13.5″ version), the Rise Armament handguard significantly reduces the overall weight of the rifle. This makes it easier to handle and maneuver, especially during extended use.
• M-LOK Compatibility: The M-LOK system allows for direct attachment of accessories, eliminating the need for bulky Picatinny rail sections. This further reduces weight and provides a cleaner, more streamlined look.
• Picatinny Upper Rail: The full-length Picatinny top rail provides ample space for mounting optics and other accessories that require a Picatinny interface. It offers versatility and ensures compatibility with a wide range of sighting systems.
• Free-Floating Design: The free-floating design prevents the handguard from contacting the barrel, which can improve accuracy by minimizing barrel harmonics. This is a crucial feature for precision shooters.
• Material: Machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, the handguard strikes a balance between strength and weight. This provides confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of heavy use.
• Finish: The MIL-A-8625F, Type III, Class 2, hard anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The Spartan Bronze bright-dip anodized finish also adds a touch of style.

These specifications are critical because they contribute to the overall performance, weight, and customization options of the AR-15 platform. The handguard allows the user to dial in their rifle based on their specific needs.

Performance & Functionality

The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze excels in providing a lightweight, modular, and comfortable platform for mounting accessories. The free-floating design appears to have contributed to slightly tighter groupings at the range.

The main strength is its weight-to-functionality ratio. The only improvement I would suggest is perhaps adding some texturing or stippling to the handguard surface for enhanced grip, particularly in wet conditions.

The handguard meets and slightly exceeds my expectations, offering a noticeable improvement in handling and modularity compared to previous handguards I have used. It is a welcomed upgrade.

Design & Ergonomics

The skeletonized design is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional, reducing weight and promoting airflow. The handguard is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.

The installation is straightforward, and the overall design is intuitive. There is no need to spend hours researching the process of installation.

Durability & Maintenance

The 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction and hard anodized finish suggest that the Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze will last for many years with proper care. I expect it to withstand regular use and exposure to the elements without issue.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a mild solvent or degreaser. The product cleans up easily.

Accessories and Customization Options

The handguard is M-LOK compatible, which means it accepts a vast array of accessories, including foregrips, lights, lasers, and sling mounts. The full-length Picatinny top rail allows for the mounting of any optic or accessory that utilizes a Picatinny interface.

The Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze is compatible with most standard AR-15 upper receivers and barrels. This means the platform user can have a plethora of options.

Pros and Cons of Rise Armament 13.5″ AR-15 Skeletonized M-LOK Handguard – Spartan Bronze