REVIEW: Clawgear AUG Handguard M-Lok and Keymod

Clawgear has set out to improve the Steyr AUG without having to completely rebuild the weapon. This is not allowed for everyone who uses an AUG, such as soldiers of the Austrian Armed Forces. We have already introduced the Modular Scope Cover and today, another modular component is up, the new handguard. Here is the eco-friendly packaging for both. In the following, we won't differentiate between the two handguards further, as they are identical except for the appearance of the mounting systems. One has M-LOK slots, the other enjoys KeyMods. So there is something for every taste. Inside the box, you'll find the handguard, an assembly and usage manual, and other accessories. The handguard is made of high-quality aluminum, making it very lightweight yet durable. The installation is overall very easy. If you want to try it on an official weapon, as an employee of the green company, you should check with the armorer beforehand, as the charging handle must be removed, at least temporarily. The sports shooter has it easier: they are only responsible for themselves.

Here is also a nice video from Clawgear itself on how to best mount the handguard. In short words: remove the charging handle, slide the handguard over the gas pressure device; reattach the charging handle if desired or just use the included pin; tighten the two screws on the side; done. Now all kinds of accessories - if legal in the respective country - can be mounted. For the M-Lok handguard, there is also a heat shield that covers the gas pressure selector. This way, the handguard can be fully enclosed without burning your fingers on hot gases. At least for a while. Due to the geometry of the Steyr AUG, the barrel is not centered in the handguard, but rather in the upper area. Unfortunately, this, and the fact that the handguard is clamped onto the gas pressure device, results in the handguard getting very hot during rapid firing. To prevent unpleasant burns, it is recommended to wear gloves. With normal single shots, the handguard gets warm but not hot. The Heatcover itself is a very simple part. It covers the gas pressure device. On the underside, there is only the M-Lok nut and a serial number. The installation is simple like all M-Lok accessories. Attach, turn the screw, and when the nut catches, simply tighten. The image now shows the handguard with Heatcover and Magpul grip.

CONCLUSION: A very successful product from Clawgear that brings the Steyr AUG into the 21st century, at least a huge step further. There are two M-Lok slots on each side and four on the underside. For Keymod, simply twice as many openings are available. A small downside is unfortunately the strong heating with rapid firing. The very simple and easily reversible construction is definitely interesting for soldiers who want to modernize their rifle. After all, it gets rid of the flimsy folding grip of the AUG, allowing the weapon to be handled with a C-Clamp hand grip comprehensively, or simply mount a foregrip via M-Lok or KeyMod that suits you best.

The AUG Handguard M-Lok and KeyMod are available directly from Clawgear for €229.90 (excluding shipping).

CLAW GEAR online: www.clawgear.comField test: the handguard looks great on the AUG. Those who shoot more should opt for gloves. Accessories can now be easily mounted on the front of the weapon.