First Impressions of Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount promises to bring enhanced versatility to your optic setup. Marketed as an optional quick detach lever for several Unity Tactical FAST™ mounts, it caught my attention as a potential solution to a persistent problem: the hassle of removing and reattaching optics quickly and reliably without losing zero. This review delves into my experience with this seemingly simple but potentially game-changing accessory.
As someone who frequently swaps optics between different firearms for various applications, from hunting to training, I was looking for a way to streamline the process. Traditional bolt-on mounts are secure, but they are slow and require tools. The promise of a true quick detach system that maintains zero after remounting was extremely appealing.
Upon receiving the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount, my initial impression was mixed. The lever itself felt robust, machined from what appears to be high-quality aluminum. The black anodized finish was clean and matched the aesthetic of my other Unity Tactical mounts. However, the small size and relatively simple design made me question whether it truly justified its price tag. Compared to similar QD levers from American Defense Manufacturing (ADM), the Unity Tactical option seemed less substantial, though the promise of perfect integration with my existing FAST mounts was the deciding factor. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping its performance would outweigh my initial reservations about its perceived value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount at my local shooting range on an AR-15 equipped with a Unity Tactical FAST™ Micro Riser and a Holosun 503G red dot sight. The installation was straightforward, requiring only the replacement of the standard nut with the UNITY proprietary nut (a crucial detail highlighted in the product description). Securing the lever was simple, and the throw felt positive and secure.
During the range session, I repeatedly removed and reattached the optic between magazine changes to test the QD mechanism. The lever operated smoothly, and the optic locked back into place with a satisfying click. I was shooting in relatively dry conditions, and the lever was easy to manipulate even with gloves. Initial accuracy tests after reattaching the optic showed minimal, if any, shift in zero at 50 yards. I was pleasantly surprised by the consistent return to zero and the overall ease of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a carbine course in varying weather conditions, the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount has proven to be remarkably reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the lever or the mounting interface despite repeated use. The anodized finish has held up well, showing no scratches or fading.
Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous experiences with other QD systems, the Unity Tactical lever stands out for its simplicity and consistency. The locking mechanism remains tight and secure, and the return to zero has been consistently impressive. It outperforms generic QD mounts I’ve used in the past, providing a level of confidence I didn’t previously have when rapidly removing and reattaching optics in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount
Specifications
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount is a seemingly small but significant upgrade for select Unity Tactical FAST™ optic mounts. It offers a quick detach capability, allowing for rapid removal and reattachment of optics. Designed for compatibility with:
- FAST™ Micro
- FAST™ Micro-S
- FAST™ Optic Riser (as of Aug. 2023)
- FAST™ Absolute Riser
- FAST™ Comp Series
- FAST™ MRO
- FAST™ MRDS
- FAST™ MicroPrism
It is NOT compatible with the FAST™ COG Series and FAST™ LPVO mounts. The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount comes in a black finish and is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand regular use. The key specification is its compatibility with the Unity Tactical ecosystem, ensuring a seamless fit and reliable performance.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount is to provide a rapid and reliable method for detaching and reattaching optics. The lever operates smoothly, offering a secure locking mechanism that ensures the optic remains firmly in place during use. The ability to quickly remove an optic can be crucial in various scenarios, such as switching to iron sights in case of optic failure or transitioning between different optics for specific tasks.
The main strength of the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount lies in its consistent return to zero. This is critical for maintaining accuracy after reattaching the optic. A potential weakness is its price point, which some users might find high for a relatively small accessory. However, the reliability and performance arguably justify the cost. It definitely meets my expectations and provides a significant improvement over standard bolt-on mounts.
Design & Ergonomics
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount features a streamlined design that integrates seamlessly with Unity Tactical FAST™ mounts. It is lightweight and adds minimal bulk to the overall setup. The lever is ergonomically designed for easy manipulation, even with gloves.
The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable anodized finish. The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation or operation. The entire process is intuitive and straightforward, making it accessible even for novice users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of regular use. The anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring the lever remains in good condition even in harsh environments. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
With proper care, the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount should provide years of reliable service. I anticipate this will hold up well over time, based on my experiences so far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, as it is primarily a functional upgrade. It is designed to be compatible with a wide range of optics that fit the Unity Tactical FAST™ mount ecosystem. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories such as various red dot sights, magnifiers, and other aiming devices is a key advantage, though it’s primarily linked to the chosen optic and Unity Tactical mount.
No additional accessories are included beyond the necessary proprietary nut for installation. This part is critical.
Pros and Cons of Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount
Pros
- Rapid Detach and Reattach: Allows for quick removal and reattachment of optics without tools.
- Consistent Return to Zero: Maintains zero after remounting, ensuring reliable accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials with a robust anodized finish.
- Seamless Integration: Designed to work perfectly with Unity Tactical FAST™ mounts.
- Easy to Use: Simple installation and intuitive operation.
Cons
- Price: Relatively expensive compared to other QD lever options.
- Proprietary Nut Required: Requires the use of the UNITY proprietary nut, limiting compatibility with other systems and potentially causing damage if a standard nut is used.
Who Should Buy Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount?
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount is perfect for shooters who need to rapidly switch between optics or remove their optic for storage or transport. This includes tactical users, law enforcement professionals, and competitive shooters who value speed and efficiency. Anyone already invested in the Unity Tactical FAST™ mount ecosystem will find this a valuable upgrade.
Those who should skip this product are users on a tight budget, as there are more affordable QD options available, albeit potentially with lower performance and integration. Also, if you are not using a Unity Tactical FAST™ mount, this product is not for you.
A must-have accessory is the Unity Tactical FAST™ mount that is compatible with the QD lever, as it cannot be used independently. Ensure you use the UNITY proprietary nut.
Conclusion on Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount
The Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount delivers on its promise of providing a rapid and reliable quick detach system for compatible Unity Tactical mounts. While the price point may be a sticking point for some, the consistent return to zero and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. The seamless integration with the Unity Tactical ecosystem further enhances its value.
The price is justified given the performance and reliability it offers. I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking to upgrade their Unity Tactical FAST™ mount with a true quick detach capability.
Consider the Unity Tactical FAST QD Lever Mount if you value speed, precision, and reliability in your optic setup. Upgrade today and experience the difference!