First Impressions of Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip
The Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip promises to deliver versatility and enhanced control to any M-Lok equipped firearm. For a price point that’s significantly lower than many competitors, it boasts 5-position adjustability and an ergonomic design. Does it live up to the hype, or is it another case of getting what you pay for?
As a tactical gear specialist, I’m always searching for affordable upgrades that genuinely improve weapon handling and performance. I was looking for a foregrip to add to my AR pistol to increase stability and control, especially when shooting quickly. The folding functionality was a huge draw.
Upon unboxing, the grip felt surprisingly solid. The mix of aircraft aluminum and polymer gave it a decent weight without feeling cheap. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – it certainly looked the part.
I considered options from Magpul and BCM, but the Lion Gears grip stood out because of its aggressive price point and the multiple folding positions offered. I hoped to get a functional, adaptable grip without breaking the bank. The first impression left me excited and hopeful this would be a welcome addition to my platform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip to my local outdoor range for its initial trial. I mounted it on my 5.56 AR-15 pistol with an M-Lok handguard. The installation was straightforward, although I immediately noticed the screws felt a little soft.
The grip performed adequately in dry conditions. Finding a comfortable shooting position among the 5 options was easy. I did experience some noticeable flex in the polymer grip body when applying significant pressure in the more angled positions.
I noticed a bit of wiggle at the hinge after a few magazines. This created some doubt about the long term durability and reliability of the locking mechanism. The grip was comfortable to hold, but that initial confidence quickly faded.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and some time spent using it during force-on-force training, the Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip has shown its true colors. The initial wiggle at the hinge worsened, and the polymer grip began to show wear marks. The locking pin ended up failing and would no longer reliably lock in all positions.
Despite cleaning and lubricating the folding mechanism regularly, the problem persisted. The matte black finish also began to wear off in high-contact areas. This exposed the underlying aluminum.
The Lion Gears grip falls short compared to higher-end grips I’ve used in the past. Grips from Magpul and Strike Industries retain their rigidity and locking strength even after extended hard use. The lower price point clearly reflects a compromise in materials and construction quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip
Specifications
The Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip features a combination of materials to achieve its price point. The aircraft aluminum provides a lightweight yet reasonably strong mounting deck. The polymer grip incorporates integrated non-slip ergonomic rubber pads.
The grip’s adjustability comes from its 5-position folding design. It is designed for any firearm with M-Lok rails. The specified length is 5.9 inches and it weighs in at 5.5 oz.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the grip’s intended use and limitations. The lightweight design is beneficial for maneuverability, but the polymer construction may compromise durability in demanding conditions. The 5-position adjustability offers versatility in different shooting stances and scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip is to provide enhanced control and stability while shooting. In this regard, it offers some benefits. The ergonomic design and rubber pads provide a comfortable and secure grip.
However, the performance is significantly hampered by the aforementioned flex and the questionable durability of the locking mechanism. While the adjustability is a selling point, the grip’s overall reliability is questionable. The loose feeling and potential for failure under stress make it difficult to trust in critical situations.
The Lion Gears grip meets the basic expectation of providing a forward grip, but it falls short of providing the confidence and long-term reliability I would expect from a duty-grade piece of equipment. It’s more suited for light recreational use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip is aesthetically pleasing and generally comfortable. The combination of metal and polymer gives it a modern look. The ergonomic contours and rubber pads contribute to a secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands.
However, the polymer material and the loose tolerances in the folding mechanism detract from the overall feel of quality. The grip has a slight learning curve in terms of finding the optimal folding position for individual shooting styles. I found some positions to be more stable and comfortable than others.
While the grip is easy to install and adjust, the soft M-Lok screws are a potential issue. Overtightening them could easily strip the threads.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip is a major concern based on my testing. The polymer grip material is prone to wear and flex. The folding mechanism is a potential point of failure.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the hinge. However, no amount of maintenance can compensate for inherent weaknesses in the design and materials. Given the observed wear and tear, I wouldn’t expect this grip to last under constant hard use.
This grip isn’t designed for easy repair. If the folding mechanism fails or the polymer cracks, replacement is the most likely course of action.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip doesn’t offer much in terms of additional accessories or customization. It is a self-contained unit designed to mount directly to M-Lok rails.
Because it’s a standard M-Lok mount, it is compatible with any firearm with M-Lok handguards. This also means that the grip can be easily swapped out for other M-Lok compatible grips. There are no specific accessories designed for this particular grip.
Pros and Cons of Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip
Pros
- Affordable price point
- 5-position folding design offers versatility
- Ergonomic design with non-slip rubber pads provides a comfortable grip
- Easy to install on any M-Lok rail system
- Lightweight design aids in maneuverability
Cons
- Polymer grip material is prone to flex and wear
- Folding mechanism is a potential point of failure
- Soft M-Lok screws are easily stripped
- Limited long-term durability
- Quality is lacking compared to more expensive options
Who Should Buy Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip?
The Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip is perfect for recreational shooters on a tight budget. It may be a suitable option for those seeking an entry-level forward grip for casual range use or for airsoft. Users who prioritize adjustability over ultimate durability may also find it appealing.
Those who require rugged, reliable equipment for duty, tactical training, or self-defense should skip this product. The potential for failure in critical situations makes it a liability in high-stress environments. The Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip is not suitable for use on a primary duty or defensive weapon.
If you opt for this grip, consider upgrading the M-Lok screws with higher-quality replacements. This will help prevent stripping during installation and adjustment. A drop of thread locker can help to secure the grip after adjustment.
Conclusion on Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip
The Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip offers an enticing combination of features and affordability. However, real-world testing reveals significant limitations in terms of durability and reliability. The polymer construction and the questionable folding mechanism make it unsuitable for demanding use.
The low price point may be justified for recreational users who understand the inherent limitations. But those seeking professional-grade equipment should invest in a more robust option from a reputable manufacturer. A forward grip is an important point of contact with a weapon. You shouldn’t gamble on its quality.
I personally cannot recommend the Lion Gears SG-ML150R M-Lok 5-Position Folding Grip for anything beyond light recreational use. While the adjustability is a plus, the potential for failure outweighs the benefits. Invest in a higher-quality grip for any serious application. Don’t risk your safety on subpar gear.