Let’s Dive into Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets
The Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets are designed to allow shooters to mount a vintage-style scope onto their Sharps rifle without extensive modification. Marketed as a convenient solution for those wanting to add magnification to their Sharps rifle, the Hi-Lux mount promises a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. I was excited to try this mount, envisioning a seamless integration with my Sharps rifle, finally achieving the accurate long-range shooting I had always wanted.
My quest for the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets began with a familiar challenge: aging eyes. My Sharps rifle, a beautiful reproduction, was proving difficult to shoot accurately beyond 100 yards with iron sights. I yearned to extend my range, but I also wanted to maintain the rifle’s classic appearance. The appeal of a side-mounted scope, harking back to the original Sharps rifles used in long-range competition, was undeniable.
Upon receiving the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets, I immediately noted the weight of the steel components. The matte black finish appeared durable, and the overall design seemed straightforward enough. However, a closer inspection revealed some imperfections in the machining, particularly around the screw holes. My initial thought was cautious optimism, hoping the mount’s performance would outweigh these minor aesthetic flaws.
I considered other scope mounting options, including traditional top-mounted bases and more modern Picatinny rail adapters. Ultimately, I chose the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets for their purported ease of installation and preservation of the rifle’s original lines. The promise of utilizing existing screw holes on the rifle receiver was a major selling point. My previous experiences with other Hi-Lux Optics products have been adequate, and the company’s name carried a semblance of reliability.
My initial excitement was tempered by a hint of apprehension. The minor machining flaws gave me pause, and I hoped the installation process would be as simple as advertised. Time would tell if the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets would live up to my expectations, allowing me to finally unlock the full potential of my Sharps rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could assess its performance under controlled conditions. The first hurdle arose during installation: the front mount required drilling and tapping a hole in the barrel, a task I had hoped to avoid. This contradicted the advertised ease of installation and immediately soured the experience.
The provided screws were a further source of frustration. They did not match the thread pattern of the existing screws on my Shiloh Sharps rifle. Attempting to force them in risked damaging the receiver. The front mount screw was completely incompatible, rendering that part of the mount useless without sourcing a replacement.
The side mount felt unstable. Even after tightening all screws, there was noticeable wobble. This raised serious concerns about maintaining a consistent zero and achieving accurate shots. The entire mounting process felt cumbersome and far from the “easy” installation I was expecting.
Extended Use & Reliability
Unfortunately, “extended use” was a misnomer. The issues encountered during the initial installation effectively prevented any meaningful testing. The incompatible screws and the need to drill the barrel meant that the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets were never properly mounted on my rifle.
Based on the limited attempts at installation, the durability appears questionable. The soft steel of the screws and the imprecise machining suggest that these mounts would not withstand the rigors of regular use. I was unable to clean or maintain the mount, as it was never fully installed.
Compared to my previous experiences with other scope mounting systems, the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets were a complete failure. The broken promises of easy installation and the poor quality of the components left me deeply disappointed. I would have been much happier if they had followed through with their intent.
Breaking Down the Features of Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets
Specifications
The Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets are designed for mounting Wm. Malcolm 3X and 6X short telescopic sights to Sharps rifles. The mounts are constructed from steel with a matte black finish. The tube diameter is 0.75 inches.
These specifications matter because they determine the compatibility of the mount with specific scopes and rifles. The steel construction implies durability, while the matte finish aims to reduce glare and maintain a traditional aesthetic. The 0.75-inch tube diameter limits the choice of scopes to those with a compatible tube size.
Performance & Functionality
In theory, the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets should provide a stable and repeatable platform for mounting a scope to a Sharps rifle. However, the incompatible screws, the need for drilling, and the overall instability of the mount undermine its intended functionality. The provided screws not fitting my rifle was a major issue.
The mount fails to meet expectations. The advertised ease of installation is blatantly false, and the poor quality of the components renders the mount unusable in its current state. There is nothing about the performance that makes it worthwhile.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets aims to replicate the classic side-mounted scope setups of the late 19th century. However, the execution is flawed. The build quality is substandard, with noticeable imperfections in the machining and the use of soft, easily damaged screws.
The mount is not user-friendly. The need for drilling and tapping, combined with the incompatible screws, makes the installation process frustrating and time-consuming. The lack of clear instructions and the overall instability of the mount further detract from its usability.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the low quality of the materials and the imprecise machining, the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets are unlikely to last long under regular use. The soft steel screws are particularly vulnerable to damage, and the overall instability of the mount suggests that it would not withstand repeated recoil. I would not trust my scope to the mount.
Maintaining the mount would likely be difficult. The poor finish and the tendency for the screws to loosen would require frequent cleaning and tightening. Given the limited lifespan of the mount, these efforts would likely be futile.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets come with the necessary screws for mounting the scope to the bases and the bases to the rifle. However, as previously mentioned, these screws may not be compatible with all Sharps rifles. There are no further customization options available for this product.
The mount is designed specifically for use with Wm. Malcolm 3X and 6X short telescopic sights. Compatibility with other brands is limited by the 0.75-inch tube diameter and the specific mounting interface. It is not compatible with standard mounts.
Pros and Cons of Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets
Pros
- None. The product failed to function as advertised and offered no redeeming qualities.
Cons
- Requires drilling and tapping the barrel, contrary to expectations.
- Incompatible screws that do not fit standard Sharps rifles.
- Poor build quality and questionable durability.
- Unstable mounting platform that compromises accuracy.
- Non-existent customer support from Hi-Lux Optics.
Who Should Buy Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets?
This product is perfect for no one. Anyone seeking a reliable and user-friendly scope mounting solution for their Sharps rifle should avoid the Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets at all costs.
Anyone who values the integrity of their firearm and expects a product to function as advertised should skip this product. Those unwilling to modify their rifle or risk damaging it should definitely look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A refund. Seriously, no accessories can make this mount usable without significant modification or replacement of critical components.
Conclusion on Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets
The Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets are a complete disappointment. The product fails to deliver on its promises of easy installation and reliable performance. The incompatible screws, the need for drilling, and the overall poor quality render the mount unusable.
The price of $58.93 is not justified. The Hi-Lux Optics Sharps Side Mount Sets are a waste of money. You would be better served investing in a quality set of traditional scope bases and having them professionally installed.
I would not personally recommend it. Save your money and frustration. Look for a different solution for mounting a scope to your Sharps rifle.
My final thoughts are that this product is a testament to poor quality control and misleading advertising. Do not buy this mount. Invest in a more reputable and reliable scope mounting solution.
I have a side mount for my Pedersoli 45/70.
Screws were proper thread. The front mount was about 1/2 ” to low had to shim it up to level scope. So far has been successful. I went this route as no so called gunsmiths in my area would even touch this Rifle. Thats the only reason I went with this.
My eyesight is not adequate for 100yds irons. All my rifles have optics. I do like shooting my Spaghetti Sharps. I just cannot see where they are going (bullets).