Let’s Dive into Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts
The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts offer a streamlined and economical solution for shooters looking to add offset accessories to their Picatinny rail systems. These mounts promise a low-profile, lightweight design crafted from aircraft aluminum. They aim to provide a reliable platform for mounting backup sights, lasers, or lights without adding unnecessary bulk.
I initially sought out these mounts because I wanted to add backup iron sights to my AR-15 without obstructing my primary optic. Many of the offset solutions I encountered were either excessively bulky or prohibitively expensive. The Lion Gears offering seemed to strike a balance between functionality and affordability.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by how lightweight the mounts felt. The black matte finish appeared clean and consistent, and the machining seemed adequate for the price point. They didn’t have the same robust feel as some of the higher-end mounts I’ve handled, but they also didn’t feel flimsy.
Compared to more expensive options from brands like Magpul or Strike Industries, the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts lack the advanced features and refined finish. However, those options often come with a significantly higher price tag. I chose the Lion Gears mounts because I prioritized a budget-friendly option that could reliably hold my backup sights.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. They didn’t blow me away with their premium feel, but they seemed like a potentially viable solution for my needs. I was eager to get them mounted and see how they performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was sunny and mild, with a slight breeze. I mounted a set of Magpul MBUS backup sights onto the mounts and attached them to the Picatinny rail on my AR-15 handguard.
The initial mounting process was straightforward, with the sights easily clamping onto the Weaver, Picatinny rail. Adjusting the angle and tightening the screws was simple. I found the sights held securely in place after tightening.
During live fire, the mounts held zero without any noticeable shifting. Shifting between my primary optic and the offset backup sights was quick and intuitive. I was initially concerned about potential recoil-induced loosening, but the mounts remained firmly attached throughout the session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts have held up surprisingly well. There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the finish. There is nothing beyond what I’d expect from normal use.
I haven’t noticed any significant wear or tear. The screws remain tight, and the mounts haven’t shown any signs of loosening or shifting. I periodically check the screws for tightness. This is part of my regular firearm maintenance routine.
Maintaining the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts is simple. I wipe them down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session to prevent rust and corrosion. So far, they have exceeded my expectations given their budget-friendly price.
Breaking Down the Features of Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts
Specifications
The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts boast several notable specifications:
- Material: Aircraft Aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet reasonably durable construction.
- Rail Type: Compatible with both Picatinny/Weaver rails, offering versatility in mounting options.
- Angle: Features a 45 Degree angle, providing an ergonomic offset for accessories.
- Height: A 0.19 inch height, helping to maintain a low profile and minimize obstruction.
- Slots: Either 3/5 Picatinny Slots depending on which of the two mounts you install on which side.
The use of Aircraft Aluminum strikes a good balance between weight and strength. It makes the mounts suitable for a variety of applications without adding excessive weight to the firearm. The Picatinny/Weaver compatibility ensures that the mounts can be used with a wide range of firearms and accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts perform their primary function effectively: providing a stable platform for offset accessories. The 45 Degree angle allows for quick and easy transitions between primary and secondary optics or sights. The minimal height ensures that the offset accessories don’t interfere with the primary optic.
The mounts are not without their limitations. They lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end mounts, such as quick-detach levers or adjustable angles. These mounts are a more basic, no-frills option.
Overall, the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts meet expectations for their price point. They offer a reliable and functional solution for adding offset accessories without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts feature a simple and functional design. The Aircraft Aluminum construction keeps the weight to a minimum. The black matte finish provides a clean and unobtrusive appearance.
The mounts are relatively easy to install and adjust. There is minimal learning curve involved. The low profile design ensures that they don’t add unnecessary bulk to the firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
While the Aircraft Aluminum construction provides adequate durability, it’s important to note that these mounts are not as robust as some of the higher-end options made from steel or titanium. With proper care and maintenance, they should last for a reasonable amount of time under normal use conditions.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of the screws. The black matte finish is reasonably resistant to scratches and corrosion. This makes them easy to maintain over the long term.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts themselves don’t come with any additional accessories. Their primary function is to provide a mounting platform for other accessories. They are compatible with any accessories that utilize the Picatinny or Weaver rail system, such as backup sights, lasers, and lights.
There are no specific customization options available for the mounts themselves. However, users can customize their setup by choosing different accessories to mount on them. The 3/5 Picatinny slots provide ample space for mounting a variety of accessories.
Pros and Cons of Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts offer an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight Design: The Aircraft Aluminum construction ensures minimal added weight to the firearm.
- Easy to Install: The simple design makes them easy to install and adjust, even for novice users.
- Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver rails, offering broad compatibility with various firearms and accessories.
- Functional Performance: Provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting offset accessories like backup sights or lasers.
Cons
- Basic Construction: The Aircraft Aluminum construction is less robust than higher-end steel or titanium options.
- Limited Features: Lacks advanced features like quick-detach levers or adjustable angles.
Who Should Buy Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts?
The Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts are perfect for:
- Budget-minded shooters looking for an affordable way to add offset accessories to their firearms.
- Casual range shooters who want a functional and reliable mounting solution without breaking the bank.
- Hobbyists who enjoy customizing their firearms with different accessories and configurations.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who prioritize extreme durability and require mounts that can withstand heavy abuse in harsh environments.
- Shooters who demand advanced features like quick-detach levers or adjustable angles.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A set of reliable backup iron sights to take full advantage of the offset mounting position.
- A quality Picatinny-compatible laser or light for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
Conclusion on Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts
In summary, the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts offer a compelling combination of affordability, functionality, and lightweight design. While they may not be the most robust or feature-rich mounts on the market, they provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for adding offset accessories to your firearm. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend these mounts to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that gets the job done without unnecessary frills. If you’re a casual shooter or hobbyist looking to experiment with different accessory configurations, the Lion Gears 45 Degree Angle Mounts are definitely worth considering. Add them to your cart today and experience the benefits of offset mounting without breaking the bank!
