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Posted: 10/31/2013 4:19:45 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Midwest_Ind]
Here is a photo of the first MI keymod handguard for the AK.
Thank you, PETE MI |
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NZL
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Posted: 10/31/2013 5:38:51 PM EDT
[Last Edit: KiwiGunner]
[#1]
What's the weight of that puppy Pete?
Is it feasible to have a non-picatinny upper as well? be it a smooth top or KeyMod as well? Just an idea...
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PA, USA
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Posted: 10/31/2013 7:59:02 PM EDT
[#2]
any plans to make an extended version?
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Posted: 11/1/2013 11:50:42 AM EDT
[#3]
8.7 without a rail section.
9.5 with a rail section. Our top covers will remain railed at this time. As for an extended, give us time. We can only make stuff so fast. Thank you, Pete MI |
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AZ, USA
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Posted: 11/1/2013 2:04:14 PM EDT
[#4]
ARe you sticking with the SS Line name on this ?
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PA, USA
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Posted: 11/1/2013 2:11:23 PM EDT
[#5]
i would LOVE to have extended bottom and top rails
I'll even be the first to order |
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FL, USA
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Posted: 11/2/2013 6:25:40 PM EDT
[#6]
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind: Here is a photo of the first MI keymod handguard for the AK. http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z349/Midwest_Ind/AK%20KeyMod/PA312120_zps2f30a0ed.jpg http://i1185.photobucket.com/albums/z349/Midwest_Ind/AK%20KeyMod/PA312118_zpsce2a97bb.jpg Thank you, PETE MI |
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Posted: 11/2/2013 7:54:28 PM EDT
[#7]
These are running right now. I am expecting about 4 weeks out.
Thank you. 
Troy. MI. |
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Posted: 11/2/2013 9:37:36 PM EDT
[#8]
Will this be available with the integrated sight mount top cover?
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Posted: 11/4/2013 9:01:58 AM EDT
[#9]
Optic covers will be available.
thanks TROY |
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TX, USA
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Posted: 11/5/2013 11:31:32 PM EDT
[#10]
Is the lower hand guard compatible with an UltimAK gas tube???
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Posted: 11/6/2013 9:19:24 AM EDT
[#11]
No
thanks TROY |
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ME, USA
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Posted: 11/7/2013 4:14:38 AM EDT
[#12]
Definitely in for an extended version. I love my Extended AK-SS, very light and comfortable without the top handguard. I was going to buy another, but I'll be waiting for an extended keymod!
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Posted: 11/8/2013 1:48:04 AM EDT
[#13]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By DFM56:
Definitely in for an extended version. I love my Extended AK-SS, very light and comfortable without the top handguard. I was going to buy another, but I'll be waiting for an extended keymod! +1 |
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AZ, USA
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Posted: 11/9/2013 1:03:14 PM EDT
[#14]
Dumb question:
What options/accessories fit into the key slots? Assuming that there are parts that fit into those slots? Looking at the MI site I see the rails for AR's that have the "key-mod" but I didn't see anything that fit them (specifically). MI makes the best AK aftermarket parts and I have the picatinny railed version... it's great. Eli |
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Posted: 11/10/2013 7:36:31 PM EDT
[#15]
Nice gap there at the corners where the rounded handguard meets the square receiver...
 ...is this the new industry standard? Because it's really wearing thin.
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Posted: 11/10/2013 10:04:23 PM EDT
[#16]
Wearing thin?
 . Ok.
Troy. MI |
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Posted: 11/10/2013 10:48:02 PM EDT
[#17]
I kind of do feel the same way about not filling the receiver "gap" where the lower handguard meets the receiver. I had a MI handguard set installed for a short perod, but the gap bothered me enough that I went back to a normal lower handguard. I would really like it if an American company would design a lower handguard to fill the gap like Zenitka did in Russia. Here is a pic of their lower handguard for reference....
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Posted: 11/10/2013 11:14:29 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By CPT1-285TH:
I kind of do feel the same way about not filling the receiver "gap" where the lower handguard meets the receiver. I had a MI handguard set installed for a short perod, but the gap bothered me enough that I went back to a normal lower handguard. I would really like it if an American company would design a lower handguard to fill the gap like Zenitka did in Russia. Here is a pic of their lower handguard for reference.... http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk137/lt1st285/Zenitka-B10M-lower-hg-2_zpsb4209357.jpg Yep, that's a nice piece, SGM has one that's similar but it's polymer, but at least it doesn't have that nasty gap. I can't see paying more than 25-30 bucks for something that doesn't even fit the rifle properly. |
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Posted: 11/10/2013 11:23:29 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Wearing thin? . Ok.
Troy. MI Round peg, square hole.
Seems pretty straightforward to me on the design parameters here. |
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Posted: 11/11/2013 8:29:23 AM EDT
[#20]
Cast it , Mold it no problem. Machine it with it having a round profile up front . Not as easy as you guys make it out to be. It can be done but time is money. Once a panel is put the the rear position if your hand goes there its a mute point.
Troy MI |
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Posted: 11/11/2013 10:42:46 AM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Cast it , Mold it no problem. Machine it with it having a round profile up front . Not as easy as you guys make it out to be. It can be done but time is money. Once a panel is put the the rear position if your hand goes there its a mute point. Troy MI If it was a moot point, there would be zero reasons to buy an aftermarket product that costs in excess of 150-170 bucks, we'd just keep the factory furniture, (that actually fits). |
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Posted: 11/11/2013 11:10:24 AM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Dragynn:
If it was a moot point, there would be zero reasons to buy an aftermarket product that costs in excess of 150-170 bucks, we'd just keep the factory furniture, (that actually fits). Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Dragynn:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Cast it , Mold it no problem. Machine it with it having a round profile up front . Not as easy as you guys make it out to be. It can be done but time is money. Once a panel is put the the rear position if your hand goes there its a mute point. Troy MI If it was a moot point, there would be zero reasons to buy an aftermarket product that costs in excess of 150-170 bucks, we'd just keep the factory furniture, (that actually fits). I suggest you do that. Thank you, PETE MI |
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AZ, USA
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Posted: 11/11/2013 1:13:01 PM EDT
[#23]
Pete, what fit's into the keyed slots?
Eli |
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USA
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Posted: 11/11/2013 2:07:20 PM EDT
[#24]
I used a metal piece from a UTG quad rail that was supposed to block the lower receiver gap and put it on when I got the MI quad rail handguard, it worked ok for a while but now it's flopping around, so don't do that
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Posted: 11/11/2013 2:09:30 PM EDT
[#25]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By God_Speed:
Pete, what fit's into the keyed slots? Eli Keymod is a universal mounting system. It is gaining popularity and as it does more and more companies are releasing accessories. Flashlight mounts, vertical grips, handstops, etc. Thank you, Pete MI |
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Posted: 11/11/2013 2:15:53 PM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
I suggest you do that. Thank you, PETE MI Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Originally Posted By Dragynn:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Cast it , Mold it no problem. Machine it with it having a round profile up front . Not as easy as you guys make it out to be. It can be done but time is money. Once a panel is put the the rear position if your hand goes there its a mute point. Troy MI If it was a moot point, there would be zero reasons to buy an aftermarket product that costs in excess of 150-170 bucks, we'd just keep the factory furniture, (that actually fits). I suggest you do that. Thank you, PETE MI If you (dragynn) think there are zero reasons to put an aftermarket rail on, in place of the stock handguards, you are delusional. I could care less if there was some kind of square butt plug on this handguard to fit into the receiver, it would only be cosmetic...I prefer things to be functional. Thanks MI for continuing to produce high quality AK handguards, I've been holding out for the keymod version for awhile, and will pick up a few of the extended when they become available. |
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Posted: 11/11/2013 2:24:39 PM EDT
[#27]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By supplex:
If you (dragynn) think there are zero reasons to put an aftermarket rail on, in place of the stock handguards, you are delusional. I could care less if there was some kind of square butt plug on this handguard to fit into the receiver, it would only be cosmetic...I prefer things to be functional. Thanks MI for continuing to produce high quality AK handguards, I've been holding out for the keymod version for awhile, and will pick up a few of the extended when they become available. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By supplex:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Originally Posted By Dragynn:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Cast it , Mold it no problem. Machine it with it having a round profile up front . Not as easy as you guys make it out to be. It can be done but time is money. Once a panel is put the the rear position if your hand goes there its a mute point. Troy MI If it was a moot point, there would be zero reasons to buy an aftermarket product that costs in excess of 150-170 bucks, we'd just keep the factory furniture, (that actually fits). I suggest you do that. Thank you, PETE MI If you (dragynn) think there are zero reasons to put an aftermarket rail on, in place of the stock handguards, you are delusional. I could care less if there was some kind of square butt plug on this handguard to fit into the receiver, it would only be cosmetic...I prefer things to be functional. Thanks MI for continuing to produce high quality AK handguards, I've been holding out for the keymod version for awhile, and will pick up a few of the extended when they become available. Thank you. Your business is greatly appreciated. Pete MI |
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Posted: 11/12/2013 8:58:52 PM EDT
[Last Edit: OnlytheTip]
[#28]
I think you are being too dismissive about the gap. Please do it, and charge extra if you will, but don't just write it off as it being not worth it. Ignoring the concern we have over it is the wrong answer, and frankly it doesn't look good on your end.
I have a decent amount of MI gear, I dig the company, and your products are top notch. So why skimp on the aesthetics? I don't think you are a company that would follow the philosophy of "we'll make it almost just right". Once you guys can fix that receiver gap to rail issue you will sell a metric shit ton more rail systems being sold. It can be done, reasonably and inexpensively, with a little creative engineering, which I know you guys possess. In closing, Come 'on, give in a little bit, I promise you'll be very happy once you do. I'm proud to put Midwest Industries products on my rifles, and I'll continue to buy the gear you make, but truthfully if someone makes the rail that you won't, I will have to buy it from them. Please don't make your loyal customers have to do that. |
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WA, USA
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Posted: 11/15/2013 11:58:29 AM EDT
[#29]
I very seriously doubt that sales would increase if MI put in the considerable amount of time and effort to tool up and sell a significantly more expensive version of their products simply to address a few people with a minor cosmetic complaint. I'd imagine it would actually lose them a lot of business.
"Why did your handguards have a %50 price increase?" "Some guy on arfcom was whining about a minor cosmetic issue so we totally retooled." "Oh well I'll just buy something else then." |
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Posted: 11/15/2013 12:40:17 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Balog:
I very seriously doubt that sales would increase if MI put in the considerable amount of time and effort to tool up and sell a significantly more expensive version of their products simply to address a few people with a minor cosmetic complaint. I'd imagine it would actually lose them a lot of business. "Why did your handguards have a %50 price increase?" "Some guy on arfcom was whining about a minor cosmetic issue so we totally retooled." "Oh well I'll just buy something else then." No one is saying MI must cease production and completely retool. Suggestions have been made to develop a variation of their handguard line in the future that addresses a cosmetic issue that quite a few people find lacking in the current rail systems that are available. The quality of their rail is already top notch, but I am one of the arfcommers that does find the lack of transition between the receiver and rail unappealing. This might be a minor gripe but one that should be taken in and at least tossed around by a manufacturer, and not immediately dismissed as nonsense. I would appreciate MI being open to the "bridging the gap" concept further refining their already excellent product quality. I posted a picture of Zenitka's current offering earlier to show how it can be done, and it would be fantastic if a US manufacturer can bring a handguard of similar appearance/quality to the market here in the states. I very much disagreed with MI's stance in this thread which basically thumbed it's nose at the consumer, but I am not about to trash their product just because of a difference of opinion on the future progression of their product line. Let's keep this thread and future product threads civil, and keep moving forward in improving the quality of products available for our beloved Kalashnikovs. |
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Posted: 11/15/2013 2:01:13 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Midwest_Ind]
[#31]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Balog:
I very seriously doubt that sales would increase if MI put in the considerable amount of time and effort to tool up and sell a significantly more expensive version of their products simply to address a few people with a minor cosmetic complaint. I'd imagine it would actually lose them a lot of business. "Why did your handguards have a %50 price increase?" "Some guy on arfcom was whining about a minor cosmetic issue so we totally retooled." "Oh well I'll just buy something else then." Please send me your address and T-shirt size. [email protected] The process in manufacturing what a few people are looking for would require a sizable increase in the cost of the product. Enough so that we would price ourselves right out of the targeted price point we work hard to maintain. As far as the comment that we thumb our nose at suggestions from the end user of our product. Nothing could be further from the truth. We listen to our customers all the time and use that info to help select features we want in a part. As with any product made there is no way you will please everyone all the time .We have designed this product the way we did for a bunch of reasons and if it doesnt fit the bill for you because of a few features sorry . Thanks, TROY MI |
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Posted: 11/15/2013 4:57:23 PM EDT
[Last Edit: VA-gunnut]
[#32]
This is not GD...VA-gunnut
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Posted: 11/17/2013 12:48:21 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Midwest_Ind]
[#33]
For those who seeing the open corners of the receiver is not their thing .We have made a front receiver block over two years ago so this notion that this is something new is totally false. We have had so little requests for this part we never pursued it.This part could be purchased at additional cost . This part does how ever have some draw backs. Unlike our hand guards that required Zero fitting and that fit 95 percent of all common pattern Ak rifles that are in the states . These parts may require the installer to fit them to their receiver . They may be to tight or to loose . This issue is well known with anyone who has actually made parts for these guns. wIth all the patterns and countries of manufacture the rifles are all over the place for tolerances. This part will also not offer a what some want as a smooth transition. You are going from a square shape to a round not as simple as it sounds . This would not only be affected by the the receiver dimension it would also be effected by the barrel diameter that with our system also helps set the correct height off a standard ak barrel size of .700 . Our new key mod hand guard uses our proven way of fitting and attaching to the rifle that have made it such a success in the market. We think the new key mod units will enjoy all the trouble free features of the other designs that have made them so popular .If this still isn't satisfactory as we stated before sorry. I am posting this to bring some clarity for this additional part . Not to get into a debate I have better things to do .As for the question about a extended model with a longer upper cover . We have been thinking about this for some time but in its current sleek profile we would have to make a new gas tube since the stock tube would require the front and rear retainers that are spot welded will not allow a small diameter cover to go over the top of them. We refuse to make a unit with a bulky profile or that weighs or costs to much for the average shooter .
Thanks Troy. Midwest. |
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Posted: 11/17/2013 1:44:52 PM EDT
[#34]
Troy,
To use the X-Rail we have to cut the sling loop off of the HG Retainer. To use the SS-X we have to chop off the entire HG Retainer. Doesn't seem any more of a chore to shave the front and rear retainers for an extended top cover to fit. |
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Posted: 11/17/2013 1:53:32 PM EDT
[#35]
Take a look at one. It would take some time and tool skills. We have to make the part so even the tool challenged installers have a shot at a successful install. This would be a nightmare of phone calls if you wanted someone to remove both those pieces .Even if you make it simple and what you think is fool proof you will get plenty of calls. People do not read instructions for the most part. That is a fact. The only way to do it effectively is tube replacement and full removal of the lower front cap . This is not a dead option it may lead into a few other ideas I have if we go this direction.
Thanks. Troy. MI |
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NZL
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Posted: 11/18/2013 10:21:11 PM EDT
[Last Edit: KiwiGunner]
[#36]
Out of interest.. - and not to derail the thread any further... but would the gap filler really need to be integral to the design of the handguard...? Wouldn't an optional extra, perhaps something that attaches to the bottom picatinny rail or rear keymod attachement, perhaps resolve 'the gap of doom'? At least from an asthetic and feel point of view?
Don't get me wrong - I run a full railed version on and off for my NHM-90, depending on A) my mood, and B) my 'mission'. I like it, I think its a very nicely made piece of work, and infact sold me on getting the new Gen-2 rail series; specifically the Key-Mod for my AR. But, the gap, does bother me a little bit. Not enough to prevent me from running the rail as is. But it seems to me, with what little design and production knowledge I have, that if it bothers some, but not all, why re-invent the wheel, entirely, but why not make something that could be brought as an extra and attached at will if required etc. Be it 1913 mount attachable, or even a keymod attachable piece. Yes, it will take some real-estate up, but looking at all the other options... you'd loose the space anyway. Anyway, just an idea :) |
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Posted: 11/19/2013 7:15:52 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Midwest_Ind]
[#37]
Please read above. The part to fill the gap of doom
 (your name) exists in that form as a seperate part. It has for over two years. Lets please keep this thread about the key mod hand guards.
Thanks
TROY MI |
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IN, USA
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Posted: 11/20/2013 1:35:44 PM EDT
[#38]
I will be holding out for an extended length version but I like where your going with this. I've kept my AKs pretty stock but am thinking about modifying a couple of them and I like this you rail. I also think a keymod top cover instead of railed would be awesome as well. It would reduce the weight and the user would not have to put rail sections up there if they didn't want them.
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Posted: 11/20/2013 2:27:40 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Please read above. The part to fill the gap of doom (your name) exists in that form as a seperate part. It has for over two years. Lets please keep this thread about the key mod hand guards.
Thanks
TROY MI What advantages does keymod offer over bolt-on rails and accessories from companies like IWC? |
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Posted: 11/20/2013 5:05:30 PM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Hizzie:
What advantages does keymod offer over bolt-on rails and accessories from companies like IWC? Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Hizzie:
Originally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Please read above. The part to fill the gap of doom (your name) exists in that form as a seperate part. It has for over two years. Lets please keep this thread about the key mod hand guards.
Thanks
TROY MI What advantages does keymod offer over bolt-on rails and accessories from companies like IWC? The benefit to keymod is in the fact that it is a built in universal mounting system. Unlike accessories from companies such as mount-n-slot there is no modification needed. Simply purchase keymod accessories and install install them to the handguard. Items such as flashlights and what not can me moved from one keymod interfaced rifle to the next quickly. Thank you, Pete MI |
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Posted: 11/20/2013 5:13:51 PM EDT
[#41]
Key mod specs will be held the same from manufacturer to manufacturer . They should share industry wide interchangeability .They also keep the width to a minimum due to the fact they are a much lower profile and the parts that bolt to it have the key mod interface built into them . Installation of accessories is simple and doesn't require much time the same holds true with removal . I think a very big point of the key mod system is weight savings over a pic rail . yOu can typically make a key mod much lighter . Only time will tell if this system is full embraced by the industry but with all the companies getting involved I don't think it's going to go away fast . Thanks
Troy. MI |
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Posted: 11/20/2013 5:15:12 PM EDT
[#42]
Two answers , two locations ,thanks Pete
Troy Mi |
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Posted: 11/22/2013 7:06:15 PM EDT
[#43]
I have been watching this thread. I have a MI rail on the ak now but would love to have key mod and finally get one that is extended. Will you be making a keymod hand stop as well and you had mentioned about 4 weeks a while ago is that timeline still on?
To the gap issue I have never really noticed it as a problem with mine I have now. The rail portion goes down to the end of the receiver and I guess if it did actually bug me I could put a rail cover on it or something and never have to see it. Keep the prices where they are at and don't bother retooling. If enough people thought it was a problem someone would have made a cool guy fix to it by now. |
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Posted: 11/29/2013 3:30:42 PM EDT
[#44]
4 weeks is about here, ready to order!!
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Posted: 11/29/2013 3:36:41 PM EDT
[#45]
We are almost there . Waiting on the last few things to get finished up. Thanks for checking back.
. Troy. Midwest.
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Posted: 11/29/2013 8:30:17 PM EDT
[#46]
Excellent, hoping to get one with the integrated top sight for Primary arms style red dot.
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GA, USA
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Posted: 11/30/2013 9:27:05 AM EDT
[#47]
This is the HG for which I have been waiting. Well done.
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Posted: 12/1/2013 12:02:42 AM EDT
[Last Edit: ObsoleteMan]
[#48]
Just thought I'd chime in by applauding your efforts to reduce weight and increase speedily adaptable modifications/layout with the keymod system.
I'm standing by to see if the keymod system takes off amongst the various manufacturers. When products for this system are readily available these will be the go-to handguard system. 
MI makes great products and being able to interact with you guys here is very beneficial! ETA: I bought too many primary arms micro dots during the black Friday sale and am planning to mount them on your optic specific upper handguards coupled with the keymod lower handguards. |
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Posted: 12/1/2013 10:14:58 AM EDT
[#49]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Midwest_Ind:
Please read above. The part to fill the gap of doom (your name) exists in that form as a seperate part. It has for over two years. Lets please keep this thread about the key mod hand guards.
Thanks
TROY MI Where exactly can I find this part to fill the gap of doom? Any chance you will make some of these new rails to fit the Mini Draco. It looks great and I am sure it will be well made like your other rail. |
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Posted: 12/1/2013 12:41:47 PM EDT
[#50]
I will check tomorrow when I go in and see how many of the optional receiver blocks we have. Once I find them I will send one for photos and add them to the web site. If you want to order one sooner I will talk to the CS dept and you can call In and order one. Thanks. Troy. MI.
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