AA Delivered Again Today

[Drifter]

Well then what to do to get the HG off the Barrel Nut? Sounding like it might just be easier to cut the thing off.

Since it seems that preserving the condition of the handguard is not a priority, you might consider using a pipe wrench. Position it over the barrel nut, and the handguard and nut will likely turn / come off together. You will be working only against the torque of the barrel nut, and not the strength of the epoxy. Of course, a new barrel nut will be needed, but might be necessary anyway depending upon new handguard design.