First Thoughts on the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK
The AR-15 platform is all about modularity, and the handguard is arguably the most important component for customization. The Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK aims to be a top contender in this space, offering a blend of lightweight design, durability, and extensive mounting options. With its full-length Picatinny rail, M-LOK compatibility, and multiple QD sling mounting points, it promises to be a versatile upgrade for any AR-15.
I was looking for a handguard that would improve the ergonomics and functionality of my current AR-15 build. I needed something lightweight yet robust enough to handle the rigors of regular range use and the occasional tactical training session. My search led me to the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK because of its advertised balance of features and relatively attractive price point.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the handguard’s sleek, minimalist design. The black hardcoat anodized finish looked flawless, and the aluminum felt surprisingly light yet solid. The M-LOK slots were cleanly machined, and the full-length Picatinny rail appeared perfectly aligned.
Compared to similar offerings from Aero Precision and Midwest Industries, the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK stood out due to its abundance of QD mounting points and its exceptionally slim profile. I chose the Rise Armament handguard hoping that it could strike an optimal balance between weight, strength and customization options. Its $179.99 price tag was more affordable than the Midwest Industries option, making it an appealing choice.
My initial impression was one of excitement. I was eager to install it and see how it would improve the handling and overall feel of my AR-15. The build quality seemed top-notch, and I was optimistic that it would live up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK at my local shooting range. I primarily focused on assessing its comfort, stability, and its ability to accommodate accessories like foregrips and weapon lights.
The handguard performed exceptionally well even during a particularly hot and dusty day at the range. The slim profile felt comfortable in my hand, providing a secure and confident grip. I was able to maintain accuracy and control throughout my shooting session.
Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated the free-floating design, which noticeably improved accuracy. I encountered no significant issues during the initial use, but I did notice that the handguard became slightly warm after several rapid magazine dumps. This didn’t affect its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR-15. It has held up well despite being subjected to various conditions.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The hardcoat anodized finish has resisted scratches and abrasions effectively. Regular cleaning with a standard gun solvent has been sufficient to keep it in excellent condition.
Compared to my previous handguard, a standard A2-style polymer option, the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK has significantly outperformed it in terms of comfort, customization, and accuracy. It’s a substantial upgrade that I consider well worth the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK
Specifications
The Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK boasts several key specifications. It is designed for AR-15 platforms, constructed from durable aluminum, and features a black hardcoat anodized finish. The handguard measures 10 inches in length and includes M-LOK compatibility alongside a Picatinny upper rail.
These specifications are essential for several reasons. The aluminum construction ensures that the handguard remains lightweight without sacrificing strength. The anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and enhances the overall durability of the product. M-LOK compatibility and the Picatinny rail offer extensive mounting options for accessories, allowing users to customize their AR-15 to their specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK excels in its primary function: providing a stable and customizable platform for accessories while enhancing the ergonomics of the AR-15. Its free-floating design contributes to improved accuracy by reducing barrel interference.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design, robust construction, and ample mounting options. A minor area for improvement might be incorporating additional heat shields to mitigate heat transfer during extended firing sessions. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The handguard’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The slim profile feels comfortable and natural in hand, promoting better control and maneuverability. The overall build quality is excellent.
The installation process is straightforward and user-friendly. The handguard’s intuitive design minimizes any learning curve, making it accessible for both experienced and novice AR-15 enthusiasts.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK is built to last. Its durable aluminum construction and hardcoat anodized finish ensure long-term reliability even under harsh conditions.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK is highly versatile when it comes to accessories. It is compatible with a wide range of M-LOK accessories such as foregrips, weapon lights, and bipods.
The full-length Picatinny rail allows for the mounting of optics and other rail-mounted accessories. The handguard is also compatible with most standard AR-15 uppers, allowing for easy customization.
Pros and Cons of Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK
Pros
- Lightweight and Durable: Made from high-quality aluminum, this handguard offers an excellent balance of weight and strength.
- M-LOK Compatibility: Provides extensive mounting options for a variety of accessories, enhancing customization.
- Full-Length Picatinny Rail: Allows for the seamless integration of optics and other rail-mounted devices.
- Easy Installation: The slip-on design makes installation quick and straightforward.
- Improved Accuracy: The free-floating design reduces barrel interference, contributing to increased shooting accuracy.
Cons
- Heat Transfer: The aluminum construction can get warm during extended firing sessions.
- Limited Color Options: Only available in black, which may not appeal to all users.
Who Should Buy Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK?
The Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK is perfect for AR-15 owners looking to enhance the ergonomics, functionality, and customization options of their rifles. It is particularly well-suited for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who values a lightweight yet durable platform for accessories.
This product might not be the best choice for those prioritizing extreme heat resistance above all else. Users looking for a wider range of color options might also want to explore other alternatives.
A must-have accessory for this handguard is a quality set of M-LOK compatible rail sections or direct-attach accessories. This enables users to take full advantage of the handguard’s extensive customization potential.
Conclusion on Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK
In summary, the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK is an outstanding upgrade for any AR-15. It offers a winning combination of lightweight design, durability, and extensive customization options.
The price of $179.99 is justified by the handguard’s quality construction, performance, and versatility. It represents excellent value for the money compared to other handguards in its class.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rise Armament RA-905 Handguard AR-15 Black Hardcoat Anodized Aluminum 10″ M-LOK Picatinny/M-LOK to anyone seeking to improve the handling and functionality of their AR-15. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality handguard can make.