First Thoughts on the TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount
The TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount promises to be a straightforward solution for adding a red dot optic to one of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market. TruGlo is a well-known name in firearm sights, and this mount aims to provide a stable and reliable platform for shooters looking to enhance their accuracy and target acquisition speed. As someone who has spent over a decade working with tactical and outdoor gear, I’m always interested in evaluating products that bridge the gap between everyday carry and enhanced performance.
I recently acquired a S&W M&P Shield and, like many Shield owners, I was interested in exploring the option of adding a red dot sight. The Shield, while an excellent pistol, can benefit from the improved target acquisition offered by a red dot, especially in low-light conditions.
The TruGlo mount appeared to be a cost-effective option, offering compatibility with both the widely used Trijicon RMR and similar footprint optics. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The mount felt solid, and the finish appeared durable.
I considered several other mounting options, including having the slide milled directly and other aftermarket mounts. Ultimately, I chose the TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount for its ease of installation and relatively low cost. The prospect of a drop-in solution, without the need for permanent modifications to my slide, was appealing.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The mount seemed well-made, and the installation process appeared simple enough. I was eager to test it on the range and see if it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing session with the TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount took place at my local shooting range. I mounted a Trijicon RMR to the mount and then installed the mount onto my S&W M&P Shield. The installation process, while requiring a bit of finesse, was ultimately straightforward.
The performance was initially encouraging. Target acquisition was indeed faster with the red dot, and my groups tightened up compared to using the iron sights alone. However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed some slight shifting in the mount.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and a few hundred rounds, the initial optimism faded slightly. The TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount requires periodic tightening of the mounting screws. This is a common issue with slide-mounted optics, but it was more pronounced with this particular setup.
Durability-wise, the mount itself has held up well. There are no signs of cracks or significant wear and tear on the mount itself. Maintaining the mount is relatively easy, simply requiring cleaning and occasional re-torquing of the screws.
Compared to other mounting solutions I’ve used on different firearms, this mount felt less secure. While it provided a functional platform for the RMR, the need for frequent adjustments was a definite drawback.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount
Specifications
- The TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount is specifically designed for the S&W M&P Shield pistol. It facilitates the attachment of Trijicon RMR footprint red dot sights.
- According to TruGlo, this mount is compatible with Glock DPP (DeltaPoint Pro) sights on the full-size Glock platform, but its primary design is for the M&P Shield with RMR optics. This particular model (TG8950G3) is designed for the M&P Shield.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount is to provide a stable platform for mounting a red dot optic. It performs this function adequately, but the need for periodic screw tightening detracts from its overall performance.
The strength lies in its ease of installation and relatively low cost. The weakness is the potential for loosening during use. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly option but falls short of a premium, rock-solid mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The mount is constructed from what appears to be anodized aluminum. The weight is negligible, adding very little to the overall heft of the pistol.
The design is relatively simple, allowing for a straightforward installation process. There is a slight learning curve involved in aligning the mount correctly and ensuring proper screw torque.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction seems reasonably durable. The finish has held up well against typical wear and tear.
Maintaining the mount is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and screw tightening. The long-term durability remains to be seen, but so far, it has held up adequately.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount comes with the necessary screws for installation. It’s designed specifically for the Trijicon RMR footprint and compatible optics.
There are no included accessories beyond the mounting screws. It’s not directly compatible with other optic footprints without an adapter plate.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious shooters.
- Relatively easy installation without permanent slide modifications.
- Compatible with the popular Trijicon RMR footprint.
- Lightweight design adds minimal weight to the pistol.
- Provides a functional platform for enhanced target acquisition.
Cons
- Requires periodic screw tightening to maintain zero.
- May not be as robust as more expensive mounting solutions.
- Limited compatibility with other optic footprints without adapters.
Who Should Buy TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount?
The TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount is perfect for budget-minded shooters who want to experiment with a red dot on their S&W M&P Shield without investing in expensive slide milling. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a non-permanent mounting solution.
Those seeking a rock-solid, set-it-and-forget-it mounting solution should skip this product. Competitive shooters or individuals who rely heavily on their firearm may want to invest in a more robust option.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening. Thread locker can also help prevent screws from loosening.
Conclusion on TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount
The TruGlo Trijicon RMR S&W M&P Shield Red Dot Sight Mount is a decent entry-level option for adding a red dot to your Shield. It offers a functional and affordable solution, but it’s not without its drawbacks.
The price is justified for what it offers, but be aware of the need for occasional maintenance. It’s a good starting point for those new to red dots on pistols.
I would cautiously recommend it to shooters on a tight budget who understand its limitations. If you’re willing to monitor and maintain the mount, it can be a viable option. Give it a try, but be prepared to potentially upgrade to a more robust solution down the road.