These are two similar mid/low price handguards. The first one clamps on the barrel nut. The second one fastens to the barrel nut. Is the second one a better design by nature of engineering?

" />

I have a 20" barrel with a Diamondhead USA V-RS "T" 13.5" top rail forend with a Diamondhead T-Brake Muzzle Comp. Check em out.

Do both use standard barrel nut?

- OS

 
I'm guessing neither use the standard nut, I know the lower one doesn't.


The lower type will also require more careful timing of the barrel nut, to ensure the screw holes line up for the rail, so if anything the top one is probably a bit easier to install.

The top one looks like it's made by Matrix for Karis (or vice a versa)

http://www.matrix-arms.com/product/5-56-victor-15-keymod-handguard/

Assuming they are manufactured in the same place and not just absolutely identical in appearance, I've got a matrix, it's rock solid tight on the barrel nut.  I've tried as hard as I can to make the handguard twist/slip on the nut and It won't budget.  I'll be buying another one in the future.  Slimmest rail I've ever held. Feels great to shoot, and is awesome on my 10.5 in. pistol.