First Impressions of Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate
The Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate promises to be a game-changer for Glock owners wanting to experiment with red dot sights without permanently modifying their slides. Strike Industries aims to deliver an affordable and versatile solution for mounting various mini/micro red dot sights. Its universal design and low-profile promise caught my attention, as did the claim of being the lowest height-over-bore mount on the market.
I’ve been customizing Glocks for over a decade, and the biggest hurdle is always optics mounting. Milling a slide is a commitment, and finding the right optic cut can be tricky. I was seeking a temporary, flexible solution to test different red dots on my G34 before committing to a permanent milling.
The Strike Industries G.U.M. arrived in a simple package, containing the mount, set screws, and various mounting posts. My initial impression was that the mount was surprisingly solid, exhibiting a robust steel construction. Compared to some other dovetail mounts I’ve seen, the G.U.M. appeared more substantial and well-machined.
I considered other options like the dovetail mounts from EGW and Suarez International. The Strike Industries offering stood out due to its “universal” capability and lower price point. I was initially excited about the prospect of easily swapping between different red dot footprints without needing multiple mounts.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The solid construction and well-thought-out design suggested it could be a worthwhile solution, but the proof would be in the installation and performance. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Industries G.U.M. primarily at an outdoor shooting range on my Glock 34. The range provided a controlled environment with targets at varying distances, allowing me to assess the mount’s ability to hold zero and its overall stability. I shot in relatively dry conditions with moderate temperatures.
Installation was a bit fiddly, requiring some patience to properly balance the mount using the set screws. Getting the right balance to prevent movement was crucial. After several adjustments, I was able to secure the mount and attach a Vortex Viper red dot.
I immediately noticed a slightly higher sight picture compared to milled slides. However, it wasn’t drastically different. After about 50 rounds, the mount seemed secure, but I felt the need to constantly check the set screws, which detracted from the shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including approximately 500 rounds, the Strike Industries G.U.M. showed some signs of loosening. The set screws required tightening after each range session to maintain zero. This became quite tedious and concerning.
I observed minor wear marks on the dovetail where the mount made contact. The steel construction held up well, but the black phosphate finish began to show slight wear around the edges. Cleaning was straightforward, involving wiping down the mount and screws with a CLP-soaked cloth.
Compared to my experience with direct slide milling, the Strike Industries G.U.M. was a compromise. A milled slide offers a significantly more robust and reliable optics mounting solution. While the G.U.M. provided a temporary fix, the constant adjustments and lack of rock-solid stability made it less than ideal for serious use.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate
Specifications
The Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate is constructed from solid S45C steel for durability. It is finished with a black phosphate coating. The mount weighs 1.3 oz, has a width of 1.12 inches, a length of 1.91 inches, and a height of 0.24 inches.
It is designed to fit various Glock models including: 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 44, 45, 47. It is advertised as a universal mount, accommodating most Mini/Micro Red Dot Sights (MRDS) with an RMR footprint. The mount attaches via the rear dovetail and uses set screws for securing the plate.
These specifications are significant because they dictate the mount’s compatibility, weight, and durability. The steel construction ensures the mount can withstand recoil and maintain zero. The universal design allows users to experiment with different optics before committing to a specific footprint.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries G.U.M. functions as a bridge between a Glock slide and a red dot sight. Its primary purpose is to provide a mounting platform without requiring permanent slide modifications. In terms of ease of use, the initial setup can be time-consuming, but once installed, swapping optics is relatively straightforward.
The main weakness is the potential for loosening over time, requiring constant adjustments to the set screws. This significantly impacts reliability and the user’s confidence in the mount. While it offers flexibility, it doesn’t provide the same level of security as a milled slide.
The Strike Industries G.U.M. partially meets expectations as a temporary optics mounting solution. It allows experimentation with various optics, but it falls short in terms of long-term reliability and stability. For casual range use, it might suffice, but for serious applications, it needs improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries G.U.M. boasts a minimal and low-profile design, which helps to keep the red dot sight as close to the bore axis as possible. The S45C steel construction gives the mount a solid feel. The finish is decent, though it is prone to wear over time.
The user-friendliness is mixed. While the concept of a universal mount is appealing, the installation and adjustment process can be frustrating. It requires patience and careful balancing to achieve a secure fit. Novice users may struggle with the setup.
Durability & Maintenance
The S45C steel construction suggests the mount should last for a reasonable amount of time. However, the set screws and dovetail interface are potential points of failure. Frequent adjustments can wear down the threads and affect the mount’s overall integrity.
Maintenance is simple, involving regular cleaning and tightening of the set screws. Regular inspection for wear or damage is also recommended. Proper torque settings during installation are critical to prevent premature failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries G.U.M. comes with various mounting posts and screws to accommodate different red dot sights. It is designed to be compatible with most Mini/Micro Red Dot Sights (MRDS) that utilize the RMR footprint. This is the main customization aspect of this product.
The universal design means it can potentially work with optics from various brands, including Trijicon, Holosun, and Vortex. However, compatibility can vary, and some optics may require specific mounting screws or shims. The mount itself doesn’t offer any additional customization options beyond optic selection.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate
Pros
- Offers a universal mounting solution for various RMR footprint red dot sights.
- Allows experimentation with optics before committing to permanent slide milling.
- Relatively affordable compared to slide milling or purchasing an optics-ready slide.
- Solid S45C steel construction provides decent durability.
- Minimal, low-profile design keeps the optic close to the bore axis.
Cons
- Requires frequent adjustments to the set screws to maintain zero.
- Not as stable or reliable as a direct slide-milled optic mount.
- Installation can be fiddly and time-consuming.
- The black phosphate finish is prone to wear over time.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate?
Perfect for: Glock owners who want to experiment with different RMR footprint red dot sights without the expense and commitment of slide milling. It is also suitable for those who own multiple Glocks and want to use the same optic on different platforms temporarily. This product benefits hobbyists and casual range shooters looking for flexibility.
Who should skip this product? Competitive shooters, law enforcement personnel, or anyone requiring a rock-solid, reliable optic mount should avoid this product. Also, those who prefer a permanent, low-profile solution should opt for direct slide milling.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality torque wrench is essential for proper installation and to prevent over-tightening the set screws. Thread locker (such as Loctite) is recommended to help secure the screws. A set of different length mounting screws may also be beneficial for specific optic models.
Conclusion on Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate
The Strike Industries G.U.M. GLOCK Version 2 Universal RMR Cut Optics Mount Adapter Plate is a mixed bag. It offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the world of red dot sights on Glocks without permanent modifications. However, it comes with compromises in stability and reliability.
At $49.95, the price is justified for its intended purpose as a temporary, experimental solution. It provides a taste of what an optic can offer before making a more significant investment. However, it is not a replacement for a professionally milled slide.
I would recommend it with reservations. If you understand its limitations and are willing to accept the occasional adjustments, it can be a useful tool. For serious applications, I strongly advise investing in a direct slide milling or an optics-ready slide.
Ultimately, the Strike Industries G.U.M. serves as a stepping stone. It’s a chance to test the waters before diving into the deep end of permanent slide modifications. Before you commit, consider what your priorities are. Is it experimentation or pure performance? Make your choice accordingly.