imarangemaster....thanks for the info. I was going to do my own, but
just found modified lower handguard retainers on Carolina shooter supply for $29.95 and installed three of them. It's a piece of cake
if you have the barrel grooves. I had to cut grooves in one 7.62 x 39 barrel with a dremel grinding wheel. The .223 and 5.45 x 39 already came with barrel grooves. I've tried various handguards, but like the K-Var the best so far. Looking for a wood set of furniture, possibly from Ironwood Designs since they are in my neck of the woods.