My pleasure.
Im worried about the barrel nut vs handguard compatability. Need Vaq, or whoever can provide, to state if he has the barrel nut that goes with the barrel. If its a universal type then it should accept any of the clamp on handguards that have been offered. Also would not need a shim.
Ive run into troubles on a specifically designed barrel nut before that was, admittedly, for a free floating HG. These type have to be properly clocked while approaching the proper torque for the nut. Sometimes takes a shim to achieve that. Dont ask me how I know. Just dont want to get into that kind of bind on compatibility.
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Not all free float barrel nuts need to be timed, Geissele and BCM, amongst others do not interfere with the gas tube, however they only work with specifically designed handguards
On the flip side, a USGI barrel nut needs to be timed, or else a tooth on the nut will prevent you from installing the gas tube.
You don't need to worry about proper torque, just stay under 80 ft-lbs and you're golden