What a stupid move by Mossberg to convolute something like that.
They must have gotten those handguards and that design from the lowest bidder for sure.
The gas block should be removed and slid off the barrel, then do whatever you need to, to remove the allen screws and unscrew the handguard.
Thanks for the detailed photos KT Wolfie.
PS, Katy Wolfe is my best friends daughters name.