Tech Tip: Midwest Industries Combat HD Handguard
Synopsis
In this video, Caleb from Brownells introduces and installs the Midwest Industries Combat HD handguard for the AR-15. He compares it to the standard Combat series, highlights structural enhancements, and walks viewers through a complete installation process. The video emphasizes the handguard’s increased durability, reduced flex, and heat management—features that make it ideal for hard-use or precision builds.
What You Will Learn
Viewers will learn the key differences between the standard and HD Combat handguards, understand the structural improvements made to the HD model, and see a detailed step-by-step installation. Caleb also covers design intent, barrel nut enhancements, and fitment tips for different barrel lengths.
Benefit to Watching
By watching, you'll gain the knowledge needed to choose the right handguard for your build, understand how to install it properly, and see why the Combat HD is a top-tier choice for serious shooters or professionals who demand durability and performance.
Introduction
Caleb from Brownells kicks off the video with an overview of what to expect. The focus is on the Midwest Industries Combat HD handguards for the AR-15. If you're already familiar with Midwest’s standard combat rail, the HD version brings some notable upgrades worth exploring. In this post, we’ll cover the differences between the standard and HD models and walk through a complete installation of the new handguard.
What Is the Combat HD Handguard?
The Combat HD handguard comes in three different lengths: 9.25", 10.5", and 13.5". Currently, they don't offer longer versions. The reason for that is tied to performance. Like the Night Fighter series, the HD handguards are built to minimize deflection, especially when mounting laser aiming devices or other precision tools at the front end. The 13.5" length is ideal for builds using 13.9" or 14.5" barrels.
Length Options and Design Intent
These handguards are designed for durability. The HD version adds weight compared to the standard combat rail, making it better suited for hard-use builds where strength and longevity are top priorities. If you're doing a lightweight build, Midwest offers dedicated lightweight handguards instead.
Structural Enhancements Overview
One major upgrade in the HD version is the structural reinforcement. The top rail includes scalloped radiusing, which isn’t just for weight savings—it strengthens the rail, especially in scenarios where the rail might experience crush force. The inside of the rail also features the same radius cut for additional rigidity.
The HD handguard is also physically thicker than the standard version. It features revised M-LOK slots and includes added reinforcement to the steel QD (quick detach) sockets, whereas the standard model uses aluminum.
Strength and Weight Differences
The barrel nut area is another place where the HD model stands apart. It’s noticeably longer than the standard version, offering more surface contact and helping to reduce flex. The HD barrel nut uses a T27 Torx screw and retains the proven two-screw lockup system with an indexing piece.
Midwest added vent holes to the barrel nut. These serve dual purposes: reducing weight and aiding in heat dissipation, since barrel nuts tend to get hot during extended firing.
Barrel Nut Comparison
The HD barrel nut is reminiscent of the one used in Midwest’s Night Fighter series. It's longer and more robust, giving the handguard greater support. The standard barrel nut is shorter and lacks the same venting and material contact. These differences contribute to the HD's ability to maintain rigidity and manage heat more effectively under pressure.
Handguard Installation Process
Installation is straightforward, especially if you've installed a Midwest Industries handguard before. The process starts with securing the upper receiver and applying a bit of moly-based grease. The barrel is inserted and the barrel nut torqued down to 40 foot-pounds.
The handguard slides on, followed by installing the locking piece, making sure it’s properly aligned with the screw holes. Screws are tightened with a T27 driver and torqued to 40 inch-pounds.
After that, the gas block and gas tube are installed. Caleb uses a Brownells gas tube and a Forward Controls Design gas block, but you can use whatever parts fit your preferences.
Final Thoughts and Fitment Tips
Once everything is assembled, the 13.5" HD handguard pairs very well with a 13.9" Rosco Green Line barrel, though it also looks great with a 14.5" barrel. The handguard delivers strength, style, and compatibility in a package built for performance.
Conclusion and Contact Info
Caleb wraps up with some personal thoughts. He's a longtime fan of Midwest Industries and considers this HD handguard among his top three favorite options on the market right now. If you have questions or want to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment. For technical help, you can always reach out to the Brownells tech line. And don’t forget to like and subscribe for more content.
