I know if the AWB expires there will no longer be a weight restriction on the AR pistol but my question is about the handguard and or detachable forward grip. Are AR pistols legal with handquards attached? What is the law about forward grips, and does it apply to the AR15 pistol? The current Carbon 15 pistol has no handguard. Is this for the weight restriction or legality reasons.

legal after the ban or not? Of course this is on a receiver that will be purchased as a pistol receiver.

i thought there were barrel length restrictions not related to the AWB.

The law prohibits a forward grip that is "at an angle" from the barrel, ie. vertical foregrip.  Barrel "shrouds" are ok.  

If you want to add a vertical grip, it is considered an AOW and requires the $200 tax.

does that mean a handguard is a barrel shroud or a grip point.

Quoted: does that mean a handguard is a barrel shroud or a grip point.

Whats the difference?

The key is the "at an angle" verbage.  As long as it runs parallel with the barrel, it's cool.