Abstract: A handguard system for connecting an accessory to a firearm has a tubular body having a bore size to closely receive the body of the barrel nut. The tubular body has a tapered wedge portion that defines a gap therein. There may be a tapered clamp element adapted to fit over the wedge. The clamp element may be operable to squeeze the gap as the clamp element is pushed onto the wedge. The squeezing of the gap is operable to clamp the tubular body to the body of the barrel nut. The tubular body and the body of the barrel nut may each include a mating feature that prevents longitudinal movement of the tubular body while the mating features are engaged. The tubular body and the upper receiver may each include a mating feature that prevents rotational movement of the tubular body while the mating features are engaged.

Abstract: A handguard system for connecting an accessory to a firearm has a tubular body having a bore size to closely receive the body of the barrel nut. The tubular body has a tapered wedge portion that defines a gap therein. There may be a tapered clamp element adapted to fit over the wedge. The clamp element may be operable to squeeze the gap as the clamp element is pushed onto the wedge. The squeezing of the gap is operable to clamp the tubular body to the body of the barrel nut. The tubular body and the body of the barrel nut may each include a mating feature that prevents longitudinal movement of the tubular body while the mating features are engaged. The tubular body and the upper receiver may each include a mating feature that prevents rotational movement of the tubular body while the mating features are engaged.