How To Install the Daniel Defense RIS III Handguard

"Brownells Gun Tech™ Caleb Savant is at the bench to show us how to install Daniel Defense's RIS III Handguard, one of their Rail Interface System M-LOK® handguards for the AR-15. The RIS III uses the Daniel Defense SIX-bolt lockup system for securing the handguard to the receiver.

Tools you'll need: (1) Daniel Defense barrel nut wrench and (2) the hex wrenches that come with the RIS III, plus (3) Midwest Industries Upper Receiver Rod or a similar vise block to anchor the upper securely in the (4) bench vise, (5) adjustable torque wrench, and (6) Brownells Action Lube Plus® or similar grease. The RIS III is designed to fit a standard mil-spec AR-15 upper. It will work on billet uppers that have the necessary cutouts at the front (Caleb shows us).

Clamp the upper in the vise via the MI receiver rod. Put a little Action Lube Plus® on the outside of the barrel extension to help you slip it into the receiver. Slide the handguard bracket over the barrel and against the receiver. Put a little grease on the threads of the barrel nut and install it on the receiver, hand tightening it as far as you can. Use the barrel nut wrench and torque driver set to 35 ft.-lbs. to tighten the barrel nut. Install the gas block / gas tube.

Slide the RIS III over the barrel up against the bracket, anchoring it with the six screws. The two SHORTER screws go on the bottom of the handguard. Daniel Defense includes a hex wrench for these screws, but using a ball-tip wrench will make the chore way easier. Make each screw snug, but don't fully torque them down until they're all snugged on. There should be NO gaps between the rear of the handguard and the bracket. Now, install the bottom panel of the handguard. Bonus: you can use a slot, hex, or Torx® head driver to tighten the screws that retain the bottom panel.

When you're done, the Daniel Defense RIS III brings a new meaning to the concept of a ""rock solid"" M-LOK® AR-15 handguard installation!

NOTE: Products in this video are to be used only for lawful purposes, including hunting, self-defense, and competitive or recreational shooting. If you purchase any of them, you are responsible for understanding and complying with all federal, state, and local laws that apply to the purchase, possession, and use of these products."