The Ultimate Upgrade: Magpul Zhukov Handguard for Modern AK Platforms in Plum Polymer

For dedicated AK-platform owners looking to bridge the gap between classic design and contemporary tactical functionality, the Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard in a distinctive Plum Polymer (MPN: MAG586-PLM) stands as a pivotal modernization. Engineered and proudly Made in the USA, this handguard is not merely an accessory; it's a comprehensive upgrade designed to transform your AK into a more versatile, ergonomic, and performance-ready firearm. If you've ever wondered, "How can I improve my AK's accessory mounting options?" or "What's the best way to enhance my AK's ergonomics for modern shooting techniques?", the Zhukov Hand Guard provides a definitive answer. Available for discerning enthusiasts and tactical professionals at DEGuns, it represents Magpul's commitment to pushing the boundaries of firearm enhancement.

Why Choose the Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard for Your AK?

The traditional AK platform, while robust and reliable, often presents limitations for today's shooter, particularly concerning accessory attachment, heat management, and ergonomic comfort for modern shooting stances. The Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard directly addresses these challenges, offering a fully-featured forearm that elevates the AK's capabilities.

Key Problems Solved by the Zhukov Hand Guard:

• Limited Accessory Mounting: Older AK handguards offer minimal to no real estate for essential accessories like lights, lasers, foregrips, or bipods. The Zhukov's integrated M-LOK slots provide a modular, secure, and lightweight solution.
• Poor Heat Dissipation: During sustained fire, traditional AK handguards can become uncomfortably hot, affecting grip and control. The Zhukov's aluminum chassis acts as an effective heat shield, drawing heat away from your hand.
• Suboptimal Ergonomics: The short length and often slick surface of standard AK handguards don't lend themselves to modern shooting techniques like the "C-clamp" grip. The Zhukov offers an extended, comfortable gripping surface.
• Lack of Modularity and Customization: Many AK owners desire the flexibility to tailor their rifle to specific needs, whether for home defense, competition, or general range use. This handguard enables true modularity.
• 922(r) Compliance: For those building or modifying imported AKs, compliance with Section 922(r) of the US Code can be a complex issue. The Zhukov Hand Guard counts as one US-made compliance part.

Unleashing Modern Shooting Potential: Extended Length and Ergonomics

One of the most significant advantages of the Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard is its extended length. Measuring 11.70 inches, this design provides a substantially larger gripping surface compared to factory handguards. This extended length is crucial for shooters employing modern shooting techniques, such as the "C-clamp" or "thumb-over-bore" grip. These techniques, popularized in tactical and competitive shooting, allow for greater control over the firearm's muzzle rise, faster target transitions, and more precise follow-up shots.

The handguard’s comfortable injection-molded exterior further enhances ergonomics. The plum polymer material offers a superior feel, providing a confident and secure grip even in adverse conditions or during rapid firing. This improved purchase translates directly into better weapon manipulation and reduced shooter fatigue during extended range sessions or demanding operational scenarios.

M-LOK: The Future of Accessory Integration

The Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard is equipped with M-LOK slots at the three, six, and nine o'clock positions. M-LOK, or Modular Lock, is a proprietary Magpul system that offers a direct-attach method for accessories, providing a lighter and more streamlined alternative to traditional Picatinny rails.

Benefits of M-LOK on Your AK:

• Direct Attachment: M-LOK accessories mount directly to the slots, eliminating the need for bulky rail sections and reducing overall weight and profile.
• Versatility: A vast array of M-LOK compatible accessories are available, including vertical grips, angled foregrips, weapon lights, laser aiming modules, bipods, and sling mounts.
• Modularity: Easily reconfigure your setup in minutes. Need a light for a low-light drill? Attach it. Want to switch to a bipod for prone shooting? No problem.
• Heat Dissipation: The open nature of M-LOK slots, combined with the aluminum chassis, aids in heat dispersion.
• Clean Aesthetic: The flush-mounted accessories create a sleeker, more modern look for your AK.

While M-LOK is the primary interface, the handguard also allows for the attachment of M-LOK 1913 Picatinny rail sections if you prefer to use legacy Picatinny-mount accessories. This dual capability ensures maximum compatibility with your existing gear.

Unparalleled Strength and Heat Management: The Aluminum Chassis

Beneath its durable polymer exterior, the Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard features a full-length, hard-anodized aluminum chassis. This robust internal structure is the backbone of the handguard, providing critical strength and rigidity.

Advantages of the Aluminum Chassis:

• Flex-Free Mounting: The chassis clamps directly to the barrel, ensuring a rock-solid, flex-free mounting solution for your accessories. This stability is paramount for maintaining zero on mounted lights or lasers and for consistent accessory performance.
• Excellent Heat Shielding: The aluminum effectively draws heat away from the barrel and gas tube, preventing the handguard from becoming excessively hot during rapid or sustained fire. This significantly improves comfort and safety, allowing you to maintain a firm grip even under high-stress conditions.
• Durability: Hard-anodized aluminum is renowned for its resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and general wear and tear, ensuring the Zhukov Hand Guard will withstand the rigors of demanding use.

This sophisticated material combination — a comfortable, heat-resistant polymer exterior fused with a rigid, heat-dissipating aluminum core — sets the Zhukov Hand Guard apart as a premium AK upgrade.

Compatibility and Installation Considerations

The Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard is designed to fit most AK-47/AKM/AK-74 rifles. To ensure proper fitment, your rifle's barrel must have a diameter between 16.75-18.25 mm under the handguard and be greater than 13 inches in length. It's crucial to measure your barrel before attempting installation.

Important Installation Notes:

• Permanent Modification Required: The Zhukov Hand Guard requires the permanent removal of your factory handguard retaining cap and, if present, the forward sling mount. This is a irreversible modification to your rifle. Please ensure your barrel diameter under the handguard falls between 16.75-18.25 millimeters before cutting your retaining cap.
• Potential for Minor Fitting: Due to the wide range of manufacturing tolerances inherent in typical AK rifles, minor additional fitting of the handguard may be required for a perfect, secure fit. This might involve light filing or sanding in specific areas.
• Compatibility with UltiMAK Optics Mount: A significant advantage for optics users, the Zhukov Hand Guard is fully compatible with the UltiMAK gas tube rail. The kit includes a replacement polymer top cover that works seamlessly with the UltiMAK Optics Mount top cover, allowing you to run a low-mounted red dot or other optic directly over the bore.
• Incompatible Models: This handguard is not compatible with Yugo pattern rifles or RPK style receivers.
• Barrel Length Warning: Due to the extended length of the Zhukov Hand Guard, barrels less than 13 inches long are not recommended. Using it on a shorter barrel could result in the muzzle device being partially or fully enclosed, which is unsafe.

922(r) Compliance: A Value-Added Feature

For individuals importing or modifying foreign-made AKs, understanding and complying with Section 922(r) of the US Code is essential. This regulation limits the number of imported parts on certain firearms. The Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard counts as one US-made compliance part. This can be a significant benefit, helping owners meet the required number of domestic parts without sacrificing performance or aesthetics. This attention to regulatory detail further underscores Magpul's comprehensive approach to firearm accessories.

Elevate Your AK Experience with Magpul and DEGuns

The Magpul Zhukov Hand Guard in Plum Polymer is more than just a replacement part; it's a strategic upgrade that unlocks your AK's full potential. It addresses critical limitations of the original design, providing superior ergonomics, advanced modularity through M-LOK, and robust heat management. Whether you're a competitive shooter seeking enhanced control, a tactical professional demanding reliable accessory integration, or a firearms enthusiast looking to modernize a classic, the Zhukov Hand Guard delivers.

When considering an upgrade of this caliber, choosing a reputable supplier is key. DEGuns is proud to offer the full line of Magpul products, including the MAG586-PLM Zhukov Hand Guard. Our commitment to quality products and customer satisfaction ensures you receive a genuine Magpul product backed by expert service. Transform your AK-platform rifle into a truly modern and high-performing machine today with this essential upgrade.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Magpul
Series	Handguard
Model	ZHUKOV
Firearm Fit	AK-Platform
Color	Plum
Material	Polymer
Mount Type	M-LOK / Picatinny
Length	11.70"
Height	2.10"
Width	1.80"
Weight	15.10 oz
SKU	10594
MPN	MAG586-PLM
UPC	840815100812