Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts Review

First Impressions of Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts

The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts are designed to offer a seamless transition between magnified and unmagnified views with a red dot optic. Primary Arms aims to provide a durable, reliable, and affordable solution for shooters who want to enhance their target acquisition at varying distances. This mount promises to maintain zero and withstand rigorous use, making it a versatile addition to any AR-platform rifle.

My journey to find the perfect magnifier mount started with frustration. I needed a solution that could handle the recoil of my AR-15 while providing a stable platform for quick transitions between close-quarters and mid-range engagements. The cheap, wobbly mounts I had tried previously failed miserably, constantly losing zero and feeling flimsy.

Upon unboxing the Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the 6061-T6 aluminum construction and the clean hardcoat anodized finish. The mount felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the included spacers for various centerline heights were a thoughtful addition. The direct bolt-on system also seemed superior to traditional ring designs.

I considered other options, such as the Vortex Micro 3x magnifier with their flip mount and the Holosun HM3XT with their own quick-detach mount. I chose the Primary Arms mount due to its reputation for ruggedness, its compatibility with my existing Primary Arms magnifier, and the lower price point, which allowed me to invest more in other components. My initial excitement was high; this mount seemed like the perfect balance of quality, functionality, and affordability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts at my local shooting range, which offers both indoor and outdoor bays, allowing for varied testing conditions. I mounted it behind my Primary Arms red dot optic on my AR-15 and zeroed the setup at 50 yards. The mount felt secure, and the flip mechanism worked smoothly, locking firmly in both the extended and stowed positions.

The weather was slightly drizzly, adding a touch of moisture to the environment. Despite the wet conditions, the mount maintained its grip on the rail, and the magnifier remained stable throughout my shooting session. It took me only a few minutes to get used to the flip-to-side action, which quickly became second nature. My initial concern was whether the mount would hold zero after repeated flipping, but it proved to be impressively consistent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts have proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days at the range to dusty training scenarios and even a few light rain outings. The mount has shown no signs of loosening or shifting.

The hardcoat anodized finish has held up well, with only minor cosmetic wear from handling and storage. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it in good condition. Compared to previous mounts I’ve used, the Primary Arms mount far surpasses them in terms of durability and zero retention. It has significantly improved my shooting experience by providing a stable and reliable platform for my magnifier.

Breaking Down the Features of Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts

Specifications

• The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts are constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum, ensuring a robust and lightweight design. This material choice strikes a great balance between strength and weight reduction.
• The mount features a Hardcoat Anodized finish, providing excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and scratches. This finish enhances the mount’s durability in harsh environments.
• It offers a standard 1.41” optical centerline, making it compatible with a wide range of red dot optics. The inclusion of spacers for 1.535” and 1.64” heights increases its versatility.
• The mount is specifically designed to be compatible with direct bolt-on style magnifiers, creating a secure and stable interface. This direct connection minimizes the risk of the magnifier slipping or twisting.
• It utilizes dual crossbolts made from steel alloy, providing exceptional clamping force to ensure a rock-solid attachment to the picatinny rail. These crossbolts can be torqued up to 55 in-lbs for maximum security.
• With a weight of just 2.5 ounces, the low profile and lightweight design minimize added bulk and weight to the rifle. This helps maintain a balanced and maneuverable firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts performs its job exceptionally well by providing a stable and repeatable platform for transitioning between magnified and unmagnified views. Its primary strength lies in its rock-solid mounting and smooth, reliable flip mechanism.

The mount holds zero consistently, even after repeated flipping and exposure to recoil. A minor weakness is that the flip mechanism can be slightly stiff when new, but it loosens up with use. Overall, the mount exceeds my expectations by providing a level of reliability and stability usually found in more expensive options.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts is outstanding, with precise machining and a durable finish. The 6061-T6 aluminum and hardcoat anodizing contribute to a rugged yet lightweight design.

The mount is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and offering an intuitive flip-to-side mechanism. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s a straightforward, functional design.

Durability & Maintenance

The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts is built to last, thanks to its robust construction and durable finish. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The simple design also means there are few parts that could potentially fail.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts includes spacers to accommodate different optic heights, enhancing its compatibility with various setups. While the mount itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, its compatibility with direct bolt-on magnifiers is a significant feature.

It is designed to work seamlessly with the Primary Arms line of magnifiers, but it should also be compatible with other brands that use a similar mounting interface. The ability to adjust the height with the included spacers further enhances its versatility.

Pros and Cons of Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts

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Who Should Buy Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts?

The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, and competitive shooters who need a reliable and durable magnifier mount. It is also ideal for hunters who require the flexibility of switching between magnified and unmagnified views.

Those who prioritize extreme customization or require a mount with advanced features like quick-detach levers might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory is a high-quality torque wrench to ensure the crossbolts are properly tightened without over-tightening.

Conclusion on Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts

The Primary Arms SLx Flip-To-Side Magnifier Mounts is an outstanding product that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and value. The price of $59.99 is more than justified considering its robust construction, reliable zero retention, and versatile compatibility.

I wholeheartedly recommend this mount to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable solution for their magnifier. It has significantly improved my shooting experience, and I am confident it will do the same for others. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference a quality mount can make!