The NcStar VISM Keymod Handguard Free-Floating Aluminum Black Anodized 10" for AR-15/M4 – Model VMARFFKMC, UPC 848754006165 is a low-profile, lightweight free-float rail system designed to upgrade standard AR-15 and M4 platforms to a modern KeyMod mounting interface. Constructed from black anodized aluminum, this 10-inch handguard combines an octagon profile, seven sides of KeyMod slots, and a full-length Picatinny top rail at receiver height for flexible accessory placement and improved barrel clearance. NcSTAR+2Palmetto State Armory+2
Platform Compatibility and Application
The VMARFFKMC handguard is engineered for standard AR-15 and M4 pattern rifles:
Free-floating the handguard removes direct contact between the handguard and barrel, which can help support consistent accuracy by reducing external pressure on the barrel during shooting and when accessories are attached. TLO Outdoors+1
Construction, Material, and Finish
The NcStar Keymod handguard is built for strength and corrosion resistance while keeping weight low:
Weight specifications:
The aluminum construction balances rigidity with manageable weight, making the handguard suitable for general use, range rifles, and lightweight builds.
KeyMod Mounting Surfaces and Octagon Design
This 10" NcStar handguard uses the KeyMod interface for accessory mounting:
The KeyMod system offers direct-mount capability, reducing the need for full-length Picatinny rails and allowing users to place small rail sections only where needed, helping reduce weight and bulk.
Picatinny Top Rail and Laser-Engraved T-Slot Numbers
The top of the VMARFFKMC handguard features a continuous Picatinny rail:
This configuration facilitates consistent accessory placement between range sessions, simplifying reconfiguration and maintaining zero for optics that are periodically removed.
Included Components and Hardware
The NcStar VMARFFKMC handguard ships as a ready-to-install kit with required mounting hardware:
Included items: ammunitiondepot.com+5NcSTAR+5Palmetto State Armory+5
Barrel nut (specific to this handguard system)
Handguard adapter insert to interface the handguard body with the barrel nut
Short KeyMod-to-Picatinny accessory rail section
Medium KeyMod-to-Picatinny accessory rail section
Main handguard tube (10" KeyMod free-float body)
These accessory rail sections allow users to mount legacy Picatinny-based accessories while still benefiting from the lighter, modular KeyMod interface.
Installation Requirements
The VMARFFKMC is a free-floating handguard and has specific installation requirements:
Low-profile gas block: Required so that the gas block can fit underneath the free-float handguard. Standard A2 front sight bases will not fit under this handguard. Custom Gun Solutions+5NcSTAR+5Buds Gun Shop+5
AR-15 barrel nut wrench: Needed to install and properly torque the included barrel nut. NcSTAR+2Buds Gun Shop+2
Compatible upper receiver: Standard AR-15/M4 upper with appropriate barrel profile and gas system for a 10" free-float handguard.
Installation should be done following proper armorer procedures, including torque specifications and verification of gas system alignment.
Performance and Use Cases
The NcStar VISM 10" KeyMod Free-Float Handguard VMARFFKMC is suited for a wide range of AR-15/M4 applications:
General-purpose carbines: Upgrading from drop-in polymer or two-piece handguards to a free-float, accessory-ready system.
Lightweight builds: Octagon aluminum construction and selective KeyMod accessory placement help minimize weight. TLO Outdoors+2ammunitiondepot.com+2
Range and training rifles: Provides ample mounting real estate for lights, sling attachments, bipods, and hand stops.
Budget-conscious custom builds: Offers many features of higher-end free-float systems (free-float design, KeyMod, Pic rail with T-markings) at a more affordable price point. Buds Gun Shop+1
Because it is a free-float design, it can help maintain consistent accuracy potential compared with non-free-float two-piece handguards, especially when used with supported shooting positions and rail-mounted accessories. TLO Outdoors+1
Technical Identification and Catalog Data
For online listings, inventory systems, and SEO-focused product pages, the handguard can be identified with the following standardized data:
These details support accurate search results for queries such as “VMARFFKMC 10 inch KeyMod free-float handguard,” “NcStar AR-15 KeyMod aluminum handguard black anodized,” or direct UPC lookups using 848754006165.
In summary, the NcStar Keymod Handguard Free-Floating Aluminum Black Anodized 10" for AR-15/M4 (VMARFFKMC, UPC 848754006165) is a 10-inch, low-profile, octagon-shaped free-float rail system featuring seven faces of KeyMod slots, a receiver-height Picatinny top rail with laser-engraved T-slot numbers, and an all-aluminum black anodized construction. Supplied with a barrel nut, adapter insert, and KeyMod-to-Picatinny accessory rails, it provides a complete, budget-friendly upgrade path for AR-15 and M4 owners seeking a lightweight, modular KeyMod handguard. Point Blank Range+6NcSTAR+6Palmetto State Armory+6
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