AR Handguards: KeyMod Vs. M-LOK

[Talyn]

If you’ve been looking to build or upgrade an AR, between KeyMod vs. M-LOK handguards, which is right for you?​

Is one generally better than the other? Do either offer any niche advantages? What are the best handguard models for each style?

AR Handguards: KeyMod Vs. M-LOK

M-LOK (left) vs. KeyMod (right).

 

[HayesGreener]

I have a pretty big Kill Light mounted on my SIG 516 Carbon TS with M-Lok mounting system. It has served me well for about 10 years, with some pretty rough handling. I have no experience with the KeyMod system.

 

[Talyn]

I refer Keymod for its lighter weight & easier attachment of accessories, but Keymod stuff is hard to find nowadays.

 

[Belt Fed]

I have both and no problems with either.
More things are made for m lock and keymod seems to be getting rarer.

 

[Bassbob]

Never had anything Keymod. All M-Lok.

 

[Area52]

Seems the Key-Mod became the Betamax of hand guards.

 

[jschmidt]

Mlok has basically replaced keymod because of keymod stuff falling off when it gets even a little loose.

 

[Pitdogg2]

Mlok has basically replaced keymod because of keymod stuff falling off when it gets even a little loose.

Tend to agree. My M-lok stuff needs to get real noticable loose to fall off, it cannot slide it must come straight up to go on and off.

 

[powerboatr]

m-lok easy to find lots of stuff that use it