I am absolutely stuck and unable to make a decision on a handguard for my 14.5 FSB mid length upper. Literally can’t decide on a single aspect: quad rail vs mlok, free float vs drop in... This is intended to be a HD/SHTF gun. It will have a red dot but no magnifier in the plans. I really don’t think free floating is necessary for me but yet the DD omega 9 mlok is calling my name.. I’m rambling here so let’s focus on the lockup mechanism of the different rails:

Are free-floated 2 piece options that attach to a standard GI barrel nut sacrificing something in terms of durability or ability to hold zero? I’m talking options like DD omega or centurion. It stands to reason that there must be something less than ideal with them or proprietary barrel nuts wouldn’t need to exist right?

Unless you're trying to hold a zero on a laser, I wouldn't worry much. DD makes fantastic rails, mlok and quad.

Rocking a D.D. Omega 9" Picatinny on my 14.5 FSB pencil barrel AR.

Was pinned & welded so the D.D. Omega was the 'no saw' option to allow me to be to free-floating or return to "stock" as I chose.

Indeed.

If you have an FSB and don't mind it (nor should you), then just grab an Omega or C4 as you say. I have Omegas and they've been great.

If you can't decide which style, then just get MLOK. I personally prefer quads, but if I were starting anew today, I'd probably go MLOK, but I'm old and my stuff is old

You too? I have the same set up. Great do-aller, I feel.

Pretty much all modern rails are going to be free floated. They are lighter, easier to install, more accurate and just better in every way.

Quad rails are also a thing of the past. They are heavy, bulky, and have been superseded by M lok as a practical standard.

bottom line, unless you are dead set on having that 1990 look, you want free floated M-lok rails.

Both the DD and C4 are rock solid performers. USGI nut securement is not a concern.


Quads are my preferred.

C4.

Parts are scarce these days. A buddy of mine picked up a 15" Aero Precision free float M-lok handguard and low pro gas block at a local shop because it was in stock. It's a fantastic handguard and looks better in person than in pics. LOTS of machining detail. Personally I prefer quad rails with LaRue Index clips, but can't be picky these days if you're in a hurry.

I always prefer free float hand guards for many reason.

I run the little DD Omega 7.0 on a carbine.  Rock solid.  The carbine version is the same weight as the mil spec plastic hand guards it replaces.  The 9" version may be a couple ounces more.  Light, versatile, and strong.  Narrower than most quad rails, too.

Free float, even if you don't "need" it for a red dot, gives you the versatility to run a magnifier or a scope on down the road.

The M-lok versions look intriguing.  Might be interested for a new build, but that would involve either stacking picatinny rail sections on it, or buying new M-lok attachments for it.

Heavier, bulkier, superceded?  See my post above.  My DD Omega 7.0 is probably lighter than any rail you run.  It is the same weight as plastic handguards. Only 1.9" wide including the top of the rail slots, is free float, and is a true drop in design.  How is your "modern" rail easier to install?

I have no prejudice against modern modular rails - have several.  Prefer them with match barreled precision builds.

But, there are circumstances where quad rails, especially the short ones when behind a fixed A2 front sight and used with a simple white weapon light, make a lot of sense.

Thanks for the input guys. You’ve been very helpful! Going to go with the DD omega 9.0 in mlok.