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2/16/2006 5:24:44 PM EDT
I tried a search, but all the threads are about FF tubes with RAILS!

I am interested in a (carbine length) regular old round free float tube. What are the options if I don't want an aluminum one or a pricey carbon fiber one?

Does anyone offer a composite FF tube?

2/16/2006 5:34:41 PM EDT
[#1]
badger ordinance has a few

check out the options at fulton armory
http://www.fulton-armory.com/M6Parts3.htm#UpperParts
the carbon Hiper ones are a good price:
http://www.hiperform.com/hand-guards.htm
2/16/2006 5:41:05 PM EDT
[#2]
Armalite, 100.00
2/16/2006 8:02:27 PM EDT
[#3]
Another option is the YHM customizable tube or the free float tube. Less than $100, but I bet they are made of aluminum.

Why are you looking for just a tube, but not one made of CF or aluminum?
2/16/2006 10:32:32 PM EDT
[#4]
You mean like the PRI??
2/17/2006 7:21:42 PM EDT
[#5]
I think he said he does not want a PRICEY carbon fiber tube.
I would lump the PRI into the "PRICEY" category.
Good stuff for sure, but not everyone NEEDS a tube that good.
For a cheaper carbon fiber tube, look at DPMS and Briley.
I have crappy small pics here: www.ar15barrels.com/parts.shtml
Not sure where fiberform's fall in price, but they may be good choice too.

Beware that these are 1 piece units so you need either a strap wrench or a DPMS wrench that reaches around the reciever.
Also beware that DPMS's wrench will not work with a typical clambshell type vise block without serious modification to the block.
Ask me how I know.

Lastly, because they are 1 piece construction, you can't hide  alow profile gas block under one.
The gas block HAS to be out front, no other way to install it and the gas tube.
Just something to consider.
2/17/2006 7:26:16 PM EDT
[#6]
Armalite Fiberglass are nice and permit the use of a Harris bipod.
A little warning. The locking nut is large, and when used on some lowers, it cannot open all the way (hits front pin tabs)
2/17/2006 7:49:27 PM EDT
[#7]
Yeah, I missed that part.  

The Briley tube is good, from what I hear.

I found the Armalite one a little thick.

2/17/2006 8:42:54 PM EDT
[#8]
I got fat hands.
I use an armalite tube on my 3 gun rifle.
I clearanced the back of the locking ring and nut so the upper opens up further.
2/17/2006 9:07:50 PM EDT
[#9]
I've got a bushmaster rifle-length vented free-float tube and I'm happy with it.  It's a 3-piece so you can use a regular barrel wrench to install the nut then a small strap wrench for the tube (or put on leather gloves and twist really tight).  It has a sling stud that works well with a harris bipod.   I bought mine used for $50.  I think new they sell for $80.  
2/17/2006 9:12:19 PM EDT
[#10]
He ruled out 90% of handguards when he said "No Aluminum" tubes...
2/18/2006 4:38:08 AM EDT
[#11]
Doesn't DPMS have a new carbon Handguard introduced at the Shot show?
2/18/2006 4:44:00 AM EDT
[#12]
The Hogue aluminum gets hot and the rubber coating gets "squirmy". I bought a carbon fiber one.
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