I have a bravo co 16" recce upper that I never use. It is a few years old and has the quad-rail type handguard which I wish to replace with a smoother m-lock (?) type.

Anyone have any favorites to recommend? I like the look of the longer than factory look - like a 13" handguard with the 16" barrel.

Is this an item where a generic $70 item works as well as a $180 version, or 'you get what you pay for' situation?

Any special tools needed to switch them? I've never done it before.

Thanks in advance.

I like 15”hand guards and lightweight. The diameter is something to pay attention to. The thinner ones are pretty comfortable. Lots of options, I look for sales.

I have 13" rails on my 16" barrels. I have Troy Alpha's and a BCM keymod, the original magnesium alloy rail. It's very light but not as strong as the alpha version BCM is offering now in MLok. I still love it but it ain't cheap. Midwest Industries offers some good light weight rails that are comparable. I'd avoid cheap Chinese airsoft junk but you don't have to spend a fortune to get a good rail. Just ma make sure they have an anti rotation feature that works and make sure your accessories aren't gonna fall off. Other than that, if you like it buy it.

You will need a few tools, check out some videos on Brownells or YouTube.

No, they're definitely not all made the same. Whether or not it matters is a different issue, but they're not all the same.

I prefer mine a little thicker than the BCM and Midwest rails, but that's just personal preference.

The ALG rails are my favorite.

I have gone the ALG route lately as well.

They fit my mitts!

ALG would be my recommendation for less than $200.

I'm a fan of the BCM and Midwest rails, because they are thinner and because of the mounting system. I really like the clamp style of attachment (like Midwest and some others) better than the type where the handguard is held to the barrel nut with small screws.

It's all personal preference, but some are definitely better than others, and cost doesn't necessarily correlate in my experience.

It’s hard to beat the ALG for the money

Another ALG fan, and they ran a black friday sale so I bought another 15" for about 115 shipped.

Here's a 15 inch MLok for $75. I do not know the seller but it seems to fit what you are looking for as long as the Ruger branding isn't a problem. Good luck.

https://www.mdshooters.com/vbclassified.php?do=ad&id=33541

I completely agree BCM and Midwest are the way to go. You do get what you pay for. I have a Lancer carbon fiber one I'm pretty happy with as well.

I have never replaced a handguard. Factory ones seem to work for me.

I have used the Guntec handguards with no issue but thought I would try one of these,they are made in the USA and look good.
I have not actually used them yet but for tis price I bought 2 of them and looking at them they look good with no flaws.
https://www.joeboboutfitters.com/Matrix-Arms-AR-15-Foxtrot-KeyMod-Handguard-p/ma-foxtrot.htm

My favorite one to date is the JP Signature, only down side is the price.