Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ Review

First Thoughts on the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″

The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ Micro Stop M-LOK (MS-MLOK) offers a compact and lightweight solution for improved weapon manipulation. Marketed as an indexing aid and hand stop, this little piece of aluminum promises enhanced control and consistent hand placement. I’ve always prioritized a secure and repeatable grip, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios, so the concept immediately piqued my interest.

My quest for a reliable hand stop stemmed from years of experimenting with various grips on AR-platform rifles. I was searching for a minimalist solution that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk but would still provide a solid reference point. This Phase 5 offering seemed to strike that balance, offering a potentially significant performance upgrade in a small package.

Upon unboxing, the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ felt surprisingly robust. The black anodized finish looked clean and durable, and the overall build quality seemed solid. It’s undeniably lightweight, a critical factor for maintaining weapon balance.

Compared to bulkier vertical grips or angled foregrips, the Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK is incredibly streamlined. Other hand stops I considered often felt too intrusive or limited my hand placement options. This Phase 5 design, with its M-LOK compatibility, promised a versatile and low-profile solution.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It felt well-made and thought-out, but the real test would be how it performed on the range. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promise of enhanced control and improved accuracy in real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for initial testing. I mounted the hand stop on a 16″ AR-15 with an M-LOK compatible handguard in various positions (bottom, side, forward, and reverse) to assess its versatility.

The immediate improvement was in indexing my support hand consistently. I found that the Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK provided a tactile reference point, ensuring my hand was always in the same position. The smaller size allowed me to maintain a more natural and comfortable grip, and recoil management felt subtly improved.

There were no initial issues after the first range session. The installation was straightforward, and the hand stop remained securely mounted throughout the testing. I experimented with different shooting positions and found the Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK to be beneficial in each.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ has held up remarkably well. The black anodized finish shows no signs of significant wear, despite being subjected to normal handling and occasional bumps. It’s proven to be a durable piece of kit.

The hand stop has remained securely mounted to my rifle’s handguard. It requires minimal maintenance; a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually all that’s needed. The design prevents dirt and debris from accumulating, maintaining its functionality over time.

Compared to other hand stops I’ve used in the past, the Phase 5 offering stands out due to its minimalist design and reliable performance. It enhances weapon control without adding unnecessary bulk or weight, something other options failed to achieve. It has proven to be a noticeable upgrade to my rifle setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″

Specifications

  • Model: Micro Stop MLOK. This denotes its compatibility with M-LOK rail systems, providing a secure and direct attachment.

  • Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This aircraft-grade aluminum alloy provides a superior strength-to-weight ratio, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight.

  • Finish: Black Anodized. The anodized finish hardens the aluminum surface, providing excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective matte black appearance.

  • Length: 1.55 inches. This compact size allows for versatile placement on the rail without obstructing other accessories or hand positions.

The choice of 6061-T6 aluminum ensures the hand stop can withstand the rigors of regular use and harsh environments. The black anodized finish not only enhances durability but also blends seamlessly with most firearms. Its diminutive size is key to its versatility and low profile.

Performance & Functionality

The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ excels at providing a tactile reference point for consistent hand placement. This leads to improved recoil management and faster target acquisition. The improved consistency translates into greater accuracy and more controlled follow-up shots.

One strength of the Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK is its versatility. It can be mounted in various positions to accommodate different grip styles and preferences. A minor weakness is that its small size might not be ideal for users with very large hands who prefer a more substantial hand stop.

The Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK has exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a valuable addition to my rifle, enhancing my grip and improving my overall shooting performance. The benefits are noticeable and immediately apparent.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ is excellent. The aluminum is precisely machined, and the black anodized finish is flawlessly applied. It feels like a premium product.

The Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK is very user-friendly. Installation is straightforward using the included M-LOK hardware and requires no specialized tools. Its simple design means there is no learning curve; it’s immediately functional.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ should last for many years of reliable service. The aluminum alloy and anodized finish are highly resistant to wear and corrosion.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth is all that is typically required to keep the hand stop in good condition. This ensures it functions optimally for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ comes with everything needed for installation: the hand stop itself, a 5/32″ Hex L-wrench, and M-LOK T-nut and screw. No additional accessories are required.

The Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK is compatible with any M-LOK rail system. This allows it to be used with a wide variety of handguards from different manufacturers. It is not designed for use with Picatinny rail systems without an M-LOK adapter.

Pros and Cons of Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″

Pros

  • Provides a consistent and tactile reference point for improved hand placement.
  • Lightweight and minimalist design adds minimal bulk to the weapon.
  • Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction with a corrosion-resistant black anodized finish.
  • Versatile mounting options, compatible with all M-LOK rail systems.
  • Easy to install with included hardware and requires no specialized tools.

Cons

  • Small size may not be ideal for users with very large hands.
  • Only compatible with M-LOK rail systems (requires an adapter for Picatinny).


Who Should Buy Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″?

The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ is perfect for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement professionals seeking to improve their weapon control and consistency. Anyone looking for a lightweight and minimalist hand stop will appreciate this product. It is particularly useful for those who prefer a more streamlined setup.

Individuals who prefer a larger, more substantial hand stop or those with very large hands may want to skip this product. Those who do not have an M-LOK compatible rail system will also need to consider an adapter. This is a purpose-built product best suited for specific applications.

A must-have modification would be a quality M-LOK rail system if you’re currently running Picatinny, as the Phase 5 Micro Stop M-LOK truly shines when paired with a modern, lightweight handguard. This will provide the best possible platform for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″

The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed hand stop that delivers on its promises. It provides a tangible improvement in weapon control and consistency in a compact and lightweight package. It’s a simple but effective upgrade.

At $35.00, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and the enhanced performance it provides. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can have a noticeable impact on shooting accuracy and recoil management. It represents a solid value proposition.

I would absolutely recommend the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Black Anodized 1.55″ to anyone looking for a minimalist and effective hand stop for their M-LOK equipped firearm. Its robust construction, versatile mounting options, and tangible performance benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality hand stop can make!


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