Let’s Talk About TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop
The TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop is a simple, yet potentially crucial, addition to any M-LOK compatible firearm. Designed to provide a tactile and physical barrier to prevent your hand from slipping forward onto the hot barrel or in front of the muzzle, this unassuming piece of aluminum aims to improve safety and control.
I’ve spent years fine-tuning my grip and stance on various platforms, from AR-15s to shotguns, and consistently found myself searching for the perfect hand placement solution. Traditional vertical foregrips sometimes feel bulky, and angled foregrips can be too long for certain setups. The need for a minimalist, effective hand stop that wouldn’t break the bank led me to explore options like the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop.
Upon unboxing, my initial thought was, “That’s it?”. The TacFire handstop is indeed small and lightweight. The aluminum construction felt solid, and the chamfered edges were a welcome sign, suggesting attention to user comfort. It’s a basic, functional design that doesn’t try to be anything it isn’t.
Compared to more expensive hand stops like the Battle Arms Development (BAD) hand stop, or the Magpul M-LOK Hand Stop Kit, the TacFire offering seemed like a bargain-bin find. The BAD handstop boasts a more aggressive texture and a slightly refined design, while the Magpul kit offers versatility with multiple components. However, for a simple, low-profile hand stop, the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop was worth a try considering the price point.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a decent piece of kit for the money, and I was eager to see how it would perform on the range. I knew it wouldn’t be a high-end, Gucci-grade accessory, but hoped it could provide a reliable and comfortable indexing point for my support hand.
Real-World Testing: Putting TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop at an outdoor shooting range during a moderately warm day. I mounted it on my AR-15 pistol chambered in .223 Wylde. The gun was equipped with a 10.5-inch barrel. The purpose was to evaluate how well it prevented my hand from migrating forward during rapid firing drills.
The handstop performed surprisingly well. It provided a consistent and comfortable reference point for my support hand. There were no sharp edges digging into my hand, and the slight ledge gave me a good tactile indicator of my hand position. I ran through several magazines, mixing slow, deliberate shots with faster strings of fire, and the handstop stayed securely in place.
One minor issue arose when shooting from a supported position on a makeshift bench. The wider ledge, designed to brace against surfaces, proved slightly awkward as it prevented me from getting my hand as close to the support as I wanted. Overall, first impressions were positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds fired, the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop has held up without any significant issues. There are no signs of loosening or movement on the rail. The finish shows minimal wear, despite being subjected to the typical bumps and scrapes of range use.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to remove any accumulated grime or carbon residue. It outperforms my expectations given its price point. I have used other, more expensive hand stops that failed sooner.
Breaking Down the Features of TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop
Specifications
- The TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop is designed to fit on any M-LOK compatible rail system, utilizing only a single M-LOK slot. This makes it incredibly versatile and easy to position.
- It is constructed from extruded aluminum, providing a lightweight yet durable solution. The aluminum helps in dissipating heat, further enhancing user safety and comfort.
- The finish is a matte black, which helps to reduce glare and provides a non-slip surface. This is important for maintaining a secure grip in various conditions.
- It weighs approximately 0.6 ounces. This negligible weight doesn’t add noticeable bulk to your firearm.
- The country of origin is the USA. This can be seen as a positive for some buyers, supporting local manufacturing.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop is to provide a tactile barrier, preventing the shooter’s hand from sliding forward onto the barrel or in front of the muzzle. It excels at this, providing a consistent and reliable indexing point. This enhances safety and promotes consistent hand placement, ultimately contributing to improved accuracy and control.
While it effectively prevents the hand from slipping forward, the wider ledge can be somewhat limiting when trying to brace the firearm against certain surfaces. The handstop’s simplicity is both a strength and a weakness. There are no adjustable features or interchangeable parts, limiting its adaptability to different shooting styles or preferences.
Overall, it meets my expectations for a basic, functional hand stop. It’s not flashy or feature-rich, but it gets the job done reliably and without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop features a minimalist design with chamfered edges for enhanced comfort. The aluminum construction gives it a solid feel without adding significant weight. The contour is comfortable in hand for the vast majority of users.
The installation process is straightforward. It requires only a single M-LOK slot, making it easy to position exactly where needed. There’s virtually no learning curve involved; it’s intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and simple design suggest that the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop should last for quite some time with proper care. I expect it to withstand years of use under normal conditions.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop does not come with any accessories. Nor does it offer significant customization options beyond its basic installation. While some users might prefer a more modular system, the simplicity of the TacFire handstop is part of its appeal.
It’s compatible with any standard M-LOK rail system, allowing it to be used on a wide variety of firearms. The matte black finish also makes it easy to integrate with other accessories, maintaining a consistent aesthetic.
Pros and Cons of TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop
Pros
- Inexpensive and affordable
- Lightweight and durable aluminum construction
- Easy to install and use with M-LOK systems
- Provides a reliable and comfortable hand stop
- Chamfered edges enhance user comfort
Cons
- Basic design with limited customization options
- The wider ledge can be awkward when bracing against surfaces
- Finish may show wear with heavy use
Who Should Buy TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop?
The TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop is perfect for budget-conscious shooters, or anyone looking for a simple, no-frills hand stop. It is suitable for casual range shooters, recreational plinkers, and even those building a budget-friendly AR-15. It’s a great option for those who prefer a minimalist setup without unnecessary bulk or complexity.
Those seeking advanced features, adjustability, or a more aggressive grip texture should probably skip this product. Competitive shooters or those who require specialized hand placement solutions may find it too limiting.
A must-have accessory would be a set of M-LOK rail covers to further enhance grip and comfort on the forend.
Conclusion on TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop
The TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop offers exceptional value for the money. It provides a simple, reliable, and comfortable solution for preventing your hand from slipping forward on your firearm. It may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, but it performs its primary function admirably.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quality of construction and the improved safety and control it provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a basic, budget-friendly hand stop.
If you’re in the market for a straightforward, no-nonsense M-LOK hand stop that won’t break the bank, give the TacFire Gen 2 M-LOK One Slot Handstop a try. You might be surprised at how much it enhances your shooting experience for such a small investment.