I finished my Aero M5 build Sunday, and I can't get over the size of the M5 handguard.
There's so much land mass there it has its own zip code !
It could definitely be slimmer and doesn't need so be as big as it is height wise.

Are there any Keymod style free float handguards that will bolt right onto the M5 enhanced upper without having to remove the barrel nut etc ?

I'm just use to slimmer handguards like the Troy Alpha rail



First range trip today. 3 shots of 175gr Federal at 100 yards.
Attached File

Nice grouping, what barrel is that? I have the same M5 upper and rail. I'm ok with the OD of the hanguard since it is so light. I built just for deer hunting anyway.

If it its the M5E1 with integrated hand guard mounting that I don't think so, but the regular one is compatible with DPMS high hand guards I believe

It appears there's nothing wrong with that hand guard, unless you just want to spend money.

I'm ok with just spending money to not feel like I'm holding a log instead of a rifle.


It's a ballistic advantage "premium" stainless 18" barrel. Yesterday was my first range trip, did the suggested break in process clean shoot clean shoot repeat repeat repeat. Shot about 30 rounds total.  That three shot group was with Federal 175gr ammo.

This is the type of upper I have with the front part integrated into it. Attached File

Buy a standard M5 upper and a handguard of your choice (DPMS high) and swap your barrel over. The M5E1 uses it's own propitiatory handguard and as you've found out it's a thick bitch.

Yeah I feel like that's the route I'll end up going.