My experience is limited to RRA's FF tube but I imagine that's a tough decision trying to decide which is "better".
I have one. i like it. I have not seen the Rock River version so can't comment on how they compare. If you want to come see it sometime, be my guest. I'm in Castleton.
Are you talking about an A2 float tube? Or a MATCH rifle float tube?
-Nate
My CLE kit came complete with free float tube, pre-bent gas tube & trimmed to fit A2 style hand guards (non-heat shielded due to the free float tube). Everything went together smoothly. They even emailed after getting the kit asking if everything was OK.
CLE gas tube and free float tube...
The bend is simply forward of a mil spec. No reason for any reliability issues.
...Did it change the balance of the rifle drastically or would it still be manageable shooting off hand?
Yeah, A2s with float tubes can be shot pretty okay on your feet. If you are bithered, add some weight in the back...but if you're good enough fir it to matter a lot, then you're probably not gonna want a Government profile.