Handguard system for firearms

Abstract

Implementations of a handguard system for firearms is provided. The handguard system is configured for use with a rifle (e.g., an AK-type rifle) and to support rail mounted firearm accessories. In some implementations, the handguard system comprises a rear sight block configured to fit about the barrel of a rifle and a handguard that can be removably secured to the rear sight block without making contact with the barrel (i.e. the handguard system is free-floating). In other implementations, the handguard system comprises a rear sight block and a handguard that can be removably secured together and thereby form a clamp that secures the handguard system to the barrel of a rifle. The handguard may be configured so that modular sections of MIL-STD-1913 mounting rail can be attached to various locations on the handguard as needed to provide a mounting structure for MIL-STD-1913 rail mounted firearm accessories.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.