The Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized Made a Bold First Impression
In the realm of AR-15 handguards, where black anodizing reigns supreme, the Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized immediately commands attention with its vibrant color and promise of enhanced versatility. Rise Armament, known for their quality triggers and AR components, aims to deliver a handguard that not only looks good but also performs exceptionally well, offering a balance of durability, functionality, and customization options. My search for a handguard that was both lightweight and provided ample M-LOK slots for accessories led me to this particular model.
I was tired of the generic black handguards that seemed to blend into every AR-15 on the range. The Rise Armament RA-905 offered a unique aesthetic while also promising the functionality I needed for mounting lights, lasers, and foregrips. Upon unboxing the handguard, I was immediately struck by the richness of the red anodizing; it’s a true, vibrant red that doesn’t appear cheap or easily scratched.
The 6061-T6 aluminum felt solid in my hand, instilling confidence in its durability without adding unnecessary weight to the rifle. Compared to some of the cheaper handguards I’ve handled in the past, the RA-905 felt like a significant step up in terms of build quality. I was also considering a handguard from Midwest Industries and another from Aero Precision, both reputable brands. I ultimately chose the Rise Armament due to its unique aesthetics and the promise of ample QD mounting points.
My initial impression was one of excitement and cautious optimism. I was eager to see how the handguard would perform on the range and whether its bold aesthetics would translate to improved functionality and comfort. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another case of style over substance?
Real-World Testing: Putting Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rise Armament RA-905 at my local outdoor shooting range, mounting it on my primary AR-15 build. The range offered a variety of shooting distances, allowing me to assess the handguard’s impact on accuracy and handling. I wanted to see how it felt during rapid fire drills.
The weather was slightly overcast with a light breeze, but the conditions were generally favorable for shooting. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the slip-on design; it took me less than 15 minutes to swap out my old handguard. The slim profile felt immediately comfortable in my hand, and the M-LOK slots provided ample space for mounting my preferred accessories. There were no immediate issues, but I did notice that the red anodizing reflected sunlight more than a black handguard, which could potentially be a concern in certain tactical situations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Rise Armament RA-905 has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR-15. It has held up remarkably well, showing no significant signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to regular range sessions and carbine courses. The hard coat anodized finish seems to be quite resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a CLP-soaked cloth is all it takes to remove carbon fouling and grime. Compared to my previous handguard, which felt bulky and uncomfortable after prolonged use, the RA-905 offers a noticeably improved shooting experience. It allows for a more natural and ergonomic grip. Overall, the Rise Armament RA-905 has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized
Specifications
The Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. It features a free-floating design, which helps to improve accuracy by eliminating any direct contact between the handguard and the barrel. This can lead to more consistent groupings downrange.
The handguard is M-LOK compatible, offering numerous slots for attaching accessories such as lights, lasers, foregrips, and bipods. It also boasts a Picatinny upper rail for mounting optics and other top-mounted accessories. Six quick-disconnect (QD) mounting points are strategically placed around the handguard, providing 360-degree sling attachment options. This allows for maximum versatility and customization to suit individual shooting styles and preferences. The slim center of the handguard promotes a comfortable and secure grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Rise Armament RA-905 performs admirably, providing a stable and comfortable platform for mounting accessories and manipulating the rifle. The free-floating design contributes to improved accuracy, especially during rapid fire strings. The abundance of M-LOK slots allows for a high degree of customization.
One potential weakness is the reflective nature of the red anodizing in bright sunlight, which could be a disadvantage in tactical situations. However, this is primarily an aesthetic concern. Overall, the RA-905 meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations for a mid-range AR-15 handguard.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth, even finish. The 6061-T6 aluminum feels robust and durable, while the slim profile and lightweight design contribute to comfortable handling. The handguard is also relatively user-friendly.
Installation is straightforward, and the M-LOK slots are easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rise Armament RA-905 appears to be built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and durable hard coat anodized finish. The handguard is easy to maintain; regular cleaning with a CLP-soaked cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition. It seems resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rise Armament RA-905 itself doesn’t come with any included accessories, but its M-LOK compatibility allows for a wide range of customization options. It is compatible with virtually any M-LOK accessory on the market, from lights and lasers to foregrips and bipods. The Picatinny upper rail also accommodates a variety of optics and other top-mounted accessories. This handguard works well with Magpul M-LOK accessories.
Pros and Cons of Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized
Pros
- Eye-Catching Aesthetics: The red hard coat anodized finish is visually striking and sets the rifle apart from the crowd.
- Lightweight & Durable: Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, balancing weight savings and structural integrity.
- Versatile M-LOK Compatibility: Provides ample slots for attaching a wide range of accessories.
- 360-Degree QD Mounting Points: Offers flexible sling attachment options for various shooting styles.
- Improved Accuracy: The free-floating design enhances accuracy potential.
Cons
- Reflectivity: The red anodizing can be reflective in bright sunlight, potentially compromising concealment.
- Price Point: Slightly more expensive than some competing handguards.
Who Should Buy Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized?
The Rise Armament RA-905 is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts who want to add a touch of personality to their rifle while also enjoying enhanced functionality and performance. It’s an excellent choice for competitive shooters who value accuracy and customization. It also suits recreational shooters who want a comfortable and reliable handguard.
Those prioritizing absolute stealth and concealment might want to skip this product due to the reflective red finish. Individuals on a very tight budget might find cheaper alternatives, although the RA-905 offers a good value proposition for its price. Must-have accessories include M-LOK compatible lights, lasers, and foregrips to fully utilize the handguard’s customization potential.
Conclusion on Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized
The Rise Armament RA-905 AR-15 Handguard 6061-T6 Aluminum Red Hard Coat Anodized is a well-designed and executed product that delivers on its promises. The vibrant red finish, while not for everyone, is undeniably eye-catching and adds a unique flair to any AR-15 build. More importantly, the handguard is lightweight, durable, and offers ample customization options thanks to its M-LOK compatibility and 360-degree QD mounting points.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and features offered. I would personally recommend the Rise Armament RA-905 to anyone looking for a high-quality AR-15 handguard that combines style and functionality. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference!