I brought in a limited amount of these MERC handguards so customers of our MB47 series receivers would have an option like this readily available.  It is one of my favorite AK handguards and while I bought these for use on MB47s, they will look great on any other milled or stamped build as well.  - JSharps

From Occam Defense:

The MERC is a revolutionary patented improvement to handguards for the AK platform. The MERC by Occam Defense offers rock solid optics mounting and hand protection.Gloves are usually not required when deploying the MERC. The MERC is easily installed in less than 30 minutes with commonly available tools. Maximum Effectiveness - Reduced Complexity: The MERC is the New Standard for AK Handguards. This system works on stamped receiver AK-47/74s from Russia, Poland, East Germany, Hungary, Romania, Egypt, and China. It DOES NOT work on Yugos (ZASTAVA) and US made Century rifles.  See this YouTube video to see if your rifle is a good candidate!

Specifications for rifle length: 6061 Aluminum Black Mil-Spec Anodized Length: 11.75" from front of receiver Overhang over dust cover: 3.5" Height: 2-5/8" Width: 1-9/16" Weight: 16 oz. (effectively much lighter through removal of steel RSB and FST) Weight of demo gun: 7 lbs, 2 oz.