Let’s Talk About Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA offers a simple solution for mounting a red dot sight to certain 1911 and 2011 pistols with an LPA-style adjustable rear sight cut. This mount allows you to add optics like the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro without the need for permanent slide modification. Evolution Gun Works aims to provide an accessible and reversible way to experiment with pistol red dots.
I’ve been experimenting with pistol red dots for a few years, and I’ve always been hesitant to mill my slides due to the permanent nature of the modification. I was seeking a non-permanent solution for mounting a DeltaPoint Pro on my Springfield Range Officer.
Upon opening the package, the mount felt solid, constructed from what appeared to be quality aluminum. Its black anodized finish looked durable and matched the aesthetic of my pistol. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, as I had concerns about the overall height of the optic once mounted.
I considered other options, including universal dovetail mounts and having the slide milled directly. Ultimately, I chose the Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA because of its claimed compatibility with my pistol and the ease of installation, with the ability to revert back to iron sights if needed. This seemed like the perfect “try before you commit” solution.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and apprehension. While I appreciated the ease of installation, I was concerned about how high the optic would sit above the bore, potentially affecting the sight picture and handling. I hoped the increased height wouldn’t be too detrimental to my shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local indoor shooting range. The goal was to assess the mount’s stability, the red dot’s sight picture, and any changes in the pistol’s handling. I tested it with various loads of .45 ACP ammunition.
The mount held up well during my first range session, showing no signs of shifting or loosening after about 100 rounds. However, as suspected, the height of the Deltapoint Pro significantly altered the sight picture and felt a little awkward. Acquiring the target took a little more time and felt less natural than with standard iron sights.
After the initial session, I noticed some slight brass markings on the side of the mount, indicating ejected casings were impacting it. This wasn’t a functional issue, but it highlighted the mount’s increased profile. I did not encounter any other immediate problems, such as screws loosening or the mount itself shifting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of intermittent use, the Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA has proven relatively durable. It remained securely in place throughout numerous range sessions. I estimate about 500 rounds fired while using the mount.
I’ve observed minor wear marks on the anodized finish where ejected casings impact the mount. The dovetail remained tight, and I haven’t needed to readjust or tighten any screws. The biggest issue is the anodizing wearing down where the ejected brass hits it.
Maintenance is straightforward: I simply wipe down the mount with a lightly oiled cloth after each range visit. The mount has held up well, even after repeated cleaning and handling. However, the height above bore remains my biggest complaint. It would still be better to get the slide milled.
Breaking Down the Features of Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA
Specifications
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA is designed for specific pistols with LPA adjustable rear sight cuts. This dovetail mount is constructed from 7075 Aluminum with a matte black hard coat anodized finish. The mount’s overall length is 1.604 inches and its width is 0.99 inches.
The mount is specifically designed to accommodate the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, JPoint, Shield RMS/RMSc/SMS, Redfield Accelerator, and Optima red dot sights. Modifying the mount allows it to fit the Holosun 407K/507K, though this requires removing the rear pins. The included screws secure the red dot to the mount, providing a stable platform.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the mount’s compatibility, durability, and overall fit. The aluminum construction ensures a lightweight yet robust platform for the red dot, while the black anodized finish provides corrosion resistance. The precise dimensions are vital for a secure and proper fit within the pistol’s dovetail.
Performance & Functionality
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA performs its primary function adequately: securely mounting a red dot sight. It provided a stable platform for my Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, allowing for consistent zeroing. However, the height of the optic above the bore is a significant drawback.
The main strength of this mount is its ease of installation and reversibility. The major weakness is the height of the red dot above the bore, which negatively affects the sight picture and ergonomics. The mount meets the basic expectation of providing a mounting platform but does not exceed it due to its height profile.
Design & Ergonomics
The mount’s design is simple and functional. The 7075 aluminum construction feels robust, but the overall height detracts from the pistol’s balance. While lightweight, the height introduces an unnatural feel to the pistol.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and following the provided instructions. No specialized gunsmithing skills are needed. However, the resulting sight picture takes some getting used to due to the elevated optic.
Durability & Maintenance
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA is reasonably durable. The anodized finish shows minor wear but has held up well to repeated use and cleaning. It should last for a good amount of time with normal use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and inspection for loose screws. No specialized tools or solvents are needed. It is a straightforward process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA comes with the necessary mounting screws. No other accessories are included. The mount is designed to fit specific red dot sights with the Deltapoint Pro footprint, so customization is limited to choosing compatible optics.
It does not offer extensive customization beyond the choice of compatible red dot sights. Some users have modified the mount to fit other optics like the Holosun 407K/507K, but this requires milling or filing and is not a direct fit.
Pros and Cons of Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA
Pros
- Easy installation – drops right into the existing LPA dovetail.
- Non-permanent modification – easily reversible to iron sights.
- Solid construction – made from durable 7075 Aluminum.
- Cost-effective – cheaper than slide milling.
- Compatible with multiple red dot footprints (Deltapoint Pro, JPoint, etc.)
Cons
- Excessive height – positions the red dot too high above the bore.
- Aesthetic concerns – the elevated optic can look awkward.
- Possible brass ejection issues – ejected casings may hit the mount.
Who Should Buy Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA?
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA is perfect for shooters who want to experiment with a red dot on their 1911 or 2011 without permanently modifying their slide. It’s also suitable for those who want a reversible mounting solution for specific pistols with LPA adjustable rear sights, like the Springfield Range Officer. This is ideal for casual range shooters or those who want to test the waters before committing to a slide cut.
This product should be avoided by competitive shooters or anyone prioritizing a low-profile optic setup. Those who prefer a streamlined and optimized sight picture should consider slide milling instead.
A must-have accessory would be a set of taller suppressor-height iron sights, in case of red dot failure, and for co-witnessing purposes. These backup sights would provide a usable sight picture even with the elevated optic.
Conclusion on Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For LPA offers a straightforward solution for mounting a red dot to certain 1911s and 2011s. Its ease of installation and reversibility are significant advantages. The mount is good for the price.
However, the excessive height above the bore is a notable drawback, affecting the sight picture and overall ergonomics. I would recommend it for testing the waters before commiting to milling a slide, but definitely consider milling in the long run.
Ultimately, whether I recommend it depends on the shooter’s specific needs and priorities. If you value convenience and reversibility over optimal ergonomics, this mount is a viable option. But keep in mind that permanent slide milling will ultimately deliver a better shooting experience. So, give it a try, but don’t be afraid to commit!