If you want a different look for your AR-15, the Nordic Components NC-1 Handguard will check that box. The more rifles you own or build, the more you start paying attention to every detail of the upper and lower receivers, handguard, stock, etc. At some point, the “standard” look starts to get a little boring, or at least it does to me. I have some rifles with short handguards and some that are full-length for mounting accessories on the end.
Most of them are M-Lok compatible with Picatinny rails on the top. When I first saw the tubular-looking NC-1 handguard, I didn’t pay much attention to it. After all, it’s not a style I normally pick for my rifles. But like many guns and gun parts, I slowly developed a liking for it. So, here I am with one installed on my Wilson Combat AR-15.
Who is Nordic Components Inc.?
The first thing I like about Nordic Components is that it’s a US manufacturing and retail company. We already have an abundance of items made in China, Mexico, and Taiwan. This makes me appreciate a brand more when I know the parts were made in America. The business is run in two big sections: manufacturing and retail.
About the NC-1 handguard
As I mentioned above, the NC-1 handguard is different, to say the least. The overall length is 15.5 inches, and the outside diameter is 2.2 inches. I wouldn’t say it’s bulky, but it does make an AR-15 feel bigger than most other handguards. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, just different. The round look of the handguard is what truly sets it apart from most other handguards. There is no Picatinny rail, everything is the same all the way around.
But there is a catch: the NC-1 does not have M-Lok slots. I know it appears there are, but they are just cutouts for heat to escape from the barrel and reduce weight. This could be a deal breaker for some because we live in a world that contains an abundance of accessories. If you really want to add attachments to the handguard, it does have 10-32 tapped holes for mounting a rail. The handguard is constructed from 6061 aluminum, which helps keep the weight down.
The free-floating rail will fit all mil-spec AR-15-pattern upper receivers and comes in shorter lengths if desired. I have various accessories on other rifles, so I’m not planning to mount anything to this hand guard. If I do add anything, it would be a sling attachment. This is one option I wish the company would have built into the existing design.
Installing the NC-1 Barrel Nut
Most handguards use a clamping system around the barrel nut or screw directly into it. The NC-1 handguard threads onto the barrel nut and uses a locking ring to secure it. This means that there are no screws holding the handguard on. To install the handguard, first remove the muzzle device, old handguard, gas block, and gas tube. Then place the NC-1 barrel nut over the barrel.
Check to see how close the next hole in the barrel nut is to lining up. If it needs to move further, put pressure on the torque wrench until you hear another click. Move slow, one click at a time until the hole lines up with the opening in the upper receiver. The gas tube should then be able to slide through freely. If it rubs against any side of the upper receiver, it is not centered. A gas tube alignment tool can be used if needed.
Installing the handguard
With the barrel nut in place, re-install the gas block and tube. I also recommend putting the muzzle device back on before the handguard if you are using the 15.5-inch handguard. Otherwise, you may not have enough room to get a wrench over the muzzle device afterward. The handguard will screw over the barrel nut until it is close to hitting the lock ring. Even though the handguard is round, it does have a “top” to make it look centered.
I found the lock ring, however, is too thin for any strap wrench I had. The strap wanted to grip onto the handguard and the lock ring at the same time. I ended up placing a flathead screwdriver in the grooves on the side of the lock ring and tapping it with a hammer. It didn’t take much to tighten the ring against the handguard. After that final step, you are done and ready to enjoy the new look of your rifle.
Like the new look?
I mentioned above that the Nordic Components NC-1 Handguard gives the AR-15 a different look. Some will like it and some won’t. I like all types of AR-15 rifles, and the tube-style handguard gets a thumbs up for me. It gives the rifle a simple, but different look. If you don’t plan to add any accessories to your rifle, this style could be a good option. Nordic Components is a great company that manufactures its products in the US, which is important to many of us. They make AR-15 parts and a wide range of other types of firearms. Check them out the next time you plan to make some upgrades or repairs to your firearm.
