Change in Mini-14 upper handguard/Heat shield?

[BrianXIX]

I recently purchased a Mini-14(5820) 583 series. I noticed the metal shielding on the inside of the upper handguard was missing. When I called Ruger the rep told me Ruger changed the design and the metal heat shield is no longer included on the upper handguard....it's plastic only. So now I'm wondering why the change, and will the plastic only heat shield hold up?

 

[DGW1949]

It all depends on the material they are using, AND how hot you let the barrel get.
Just as a point of reference, my own 582-series has a Choate hand guard which doesn't use a metal shield either. To date, I've put 4 420-Rd cans of Lake City ammo, 1-1/2 cases of PMC X-Tac, and couple hundred rounds of IMI Match Ammo through mine. So far, the hand guard has held up just fine.

If the lack of a metal heat shield bothers you though, I'm sure there's plenty of Mini owners who would gladly sell you a like new "take off" Ruger hand guard purty cheep.
Just speaking for myself, I've got one that you can't tell from brand new that I'll send you for $12, and I'll pay the shipping. Just shoot me a PM and we'll get 'er done.

DGW

 

[DGW1949]

Hey BrianXIX ....

I replied to your PM, but just so there's no misunderstanding...you do understand that what I'm offering is a Ruger (factory) hand guard (with the metal heat shield), right?

Thanks.

DGW