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Posted: 7/6/2006 7:16:59 AM EDT
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To those of you using the SIR handguard, I have a few questions. I have been asked to research the handguard as a possible replacement for existing mounts. 1. Are any of you using this in conjunction with a 20" + length barrel? Any problems or concerns? 2. As most railed handguards utilize covers, whether they are standard or ladder style, how comfortable is the SIR when shooting/holding over long period of time? I've never really seen a picture of a SIR with covers on it, so I assume they are not used. These would be used on a dedicated "cover" rifle, so they are intended to be used from a rest (either bipod or bag); therefor weight is not as much of an issue than, say with a patrol vehicle rifle. I'm looking at a few different manufacturers that would allow for the "monolithic" rail approach, giving more area for optics adjustment on a stable base. Any photos you could add would be great. I'm looking for help here, so anyone chime in; any LEO's with some experience would be greatly appreciated! |
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I've had a #45 on my 14.5" HBAR since they came out. Been put to some hard use. You never see any railcovers on them because the rails you don't use you can take off. As far as comfort they are wider than most railed forends so your mileage may vary, never seemed to bother me any. I've got nothing but good things to say about them except for the weight and cost, even with all the new designs out there now still don't feel the need to buy something new yet.  
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Thanks for the information, and pics. Since I haven't handled a weapon with one installed, I wasn't sure. Pricing wise, the difference in cost won’t prohibit the agency from purchasing. I just don't want to recommend something that is awkward to handle. Anyone else with their opinions? |
Since you asked.. Personally I think the Troy/Sampson units are a better deal. They are lighter (always a good thing) They are far less expensive (again a good thing) The lower rail on the T/S units is much sturdier (no flex) The lower rail on the T/S units also is to the M193 spec allowing use of Tango Down VFG (the ARMS rail does not have the right 'neck' length) The Troy & Sampson units also don't raise the height of the receiver rail, yet provides a continous rail. The T/S units are just as easy to install as the ARMS 'M' SIRs (meaning a 3 fingered monkey can do it). The ARMS SIRs are not bad units, it's just the newer designs are better, lighter, and less expensive. |
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I agree with Forest, I used to have a SIR 50 and while it was a quality made product it just didn't work for me. I didn't like how it raised the receiver rail, the plastic lower half and how the add on rails put certain accessories further away from the weapons centerline then other rail systems. I think the Troy/Samson rail as the product improved SIR. IMHO, I feel the Troy/Samson rail is everything the SIR should have been. BTW, the new SIR II seems better then the origin SIR because it will no longer raise the receiver rail but I still would have the same issues with the plastic lower half and the add on rails... However, how an AR is configured also depends on the users preferences. If you like and it works for you then go for it. 
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Save your money and buy something better. I've got a SIR, and it won't ever see any of my duty weapons. There are better rails available that are more functional, and give more options. Forest did a nice job outling the reasons. |
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Fit , Finish & Functional... Can't go wrong with larue. Price isn't as high as the SIR either. Larue |
+1, I have a S.I.R. on my 16 inch Colt and I love it. ARKAR |
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I'm currently using a SIR #46C on a CMMG upper 14.5", Bushy lower. Aimpoint sight, ARMS #40 BUIS, YHM Flip front sight/gasblock, VLToR stock, Suerfire M962 on the 3 o'clock and a TD VFG at the bottom. I use ladder panel covers on the areas of rail not being used. I never had the full rifle version though. I LOVE SIR my setup. The SIR is a tad heavy but I could care less about that. If I put together another AR with a SIR, I will be using military version (no delta ring) |
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I have 2 sets of these on my carbine. They are OK. The rails that come with them do not run the full length. That is the first complaint. The second is that I do not feel that they are ergonomic to just hold. In my opinion, they must be used with a foregrip for comfort. I only buy the Troy design now. With full rail covers they ergonomically feel great. Better than regular hand guards. Better mounting availablity. More rigid. |
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Folks, thank you for taking the time to respond. Forest: Since I have never actually had a weapon sporting one, your outline of it's various issues is most appreciated. Personnally, I'd rather keep things on the simple side, but there are powers that be that are having a love-fest over rail systems. While the ability to adjust the eye releif of optics by having the ability to move them further forward is certainly a benefit, I would rather leave them as they are. These weapons will only have two items mounted; optics and a bipd system. We do not employ lasers or similar devices. In any case, again thank you all for taking the time to respond. I'll be talking to our division commander today, and it's nice to be able to have some background on the SIR. BTW: Stick, since you have spoke so highly of the ASP (Gear Sector), we are currently T&E'ng them. Seems like a fairly stout, simple "KISS" set-up. |
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