First Impressions of Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger
The Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger promises a solution to a common problem: obstructed charging handles on AR platforms, especially when running larger optics. This innovative design offers both a traditional T-bar pull and a folding, snag-proof side handle for enhanced ergonomics. The promise of a drop-in, heads-down charging solution immediately piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve struggled with reaching over or around large scopes to manipulate the standard AR charging handle, an issue impacting both speed and consistency. I needed a solution that wouldn’t require me to break my cheek weld or compromise my firing position. Side charging uppers are an option, but can be expensive and require significant modification.
Upon receiving the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger, I was initially impressed with its solid feel and the clean, hard coat anodized finish. The Co-6061-T6 Aluminum Billet construction felt robust, and the folding side handle mechanism seemed well-engineered. Compared to other charging handle upgrades like extended latches or ambidextrous handles, this offered a fundamentally different approach to charging the weapon.
My initial excitement was tempered by some user feedback I’d seen online suggesting potential fitment issues and rough operation. Would this be the game-changing upgrade I hoped for, or another well-intentioned but ultimately flawed product? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger at my local outdoor range on two different AR-15 platforms: a mil-spec build and a slightly modified version with an aftermarket upper receiver. The weather was mild and dry, perfect conditions for evaluating the charging handle’s performance without environmental interference. Installation was indeed a “drop-in” process, requiring no gun modifications on either rifle.
Unfortunately, my initial experiences mirrored some of the negative feedback I’d encountered. On both rifles, the side-charging handle felt incredibly tight and rough, requiring significantly more force than a standard charging handle. The friction between the handle and the receiver was immediately noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continued use and attempts to break in the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger, my initial concerns remained. The side-charging action never smoothed out significantly. Some slight improvement was noted, but not to a satisfactory degree.
Despite regular cleaning and lubrication, the handle continued to exhibit excessive friction against the receiver, leading to visible wear on both the handle itself and the upper receiver’s finish. Maintenance was no more difficult than a standard charging handle, but the added friction required more frequent cleaning to remove debris. Ultimately, the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger disappointed compared to my experiences with standard charging handles and even some of the more basic extended latch options.
Breaking Down the Features of Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Smith Tactics.
- Finish: Hard Coat Anodized.
- Fabric/Material: Co-6061-T6 Aluminum Billet.
- Gun Make: AR Platform.
- Nylon slide button: No metal-to-metal contact between receiver and handle.
- Adustable detent latch: operator can select latching/unlatching pressure.
- Adjustable side-handle angle: operator can adjust fold-in angle for finger and glove variants.
- Maximum optic clearance: low-profile operating clearance below most optic mountings.
- Drop-in: no gun modification required for AR MIL- SPEC Receivers.
These specifications promise a durable, adjustable, and easy-to-install upgrade that minimizes metal-to-metal contact. The adjustable detent and side-handle angle should allow for personalized ergonomics, while the low-profile design ensures optic compatibility. However, the actual performance in my testing did not fully align with these promises.
Performance & Functionality
The Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger aims to provide a more ergonomic charging solution, especially for users with large optics. In theory, the side-charging handle allows for faster, heads-down cycling. The execution, however, falls short due to the excessive friction and tight fit experienced on multiple AR platforms.
The T-bar function worked as expected, but the primary selling point – the side-charging handle – proved to be a significant weakness. The design shows potential, but the current implementation needs substantial refinement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger is constructed from durable materials and features a well-thought-out design. The adjustable side handle and detent offer customization options. However, the tight tolerances and resulting friction detract significantly from the overall user experience and ergonomics.
Despite the adjustability and solid construction, the charging handle simply wasn’t comfortable or efficient to use due to the excessive force required. The design needs to prioritize smoother operation over tight tolerances.
Durability & Maintenance
The Co-6061-T6 Aluminum Billet construction suggests that the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger should be durable. The hard coat anodized finish should resist wear. However, the constant friction against the receiver raises concerns about long-term durability and potential damage to both the charging handle and the firearm.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are necessary to mitigate the effects of friction. However, even with diligent maintenance, the inherent design flaw limits the product’s lifespan and overall value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger itself doesn’t require additional accessories for basic functionality, aside from standard lubricants and cleaning supplies. The adjustable side handle angle allows for a degree of customization to suit individual preferences or glove types. There are no specific accessories that complement this product other than standard AR-15 maintenance tools.
Pros and Cons of Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger
Pros
- Potentially ergonomic side-charging option for obstructed optics.
- Durable Co-6061-T6 Aluminum Billet construction.
- Adjustable side handle angle for customized grip.
Cons
- Excessive friction and tight fit against the receiver.
- Rough and difficult side-charging action.
- Potential for wear and tear on both the charging handle and the receiver.
- Customer service appears to be unresponsive.
Who Should Buy Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger?
The Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger might appeal to AR-15 owners who absolutely require a side-charging solution due to severe optic obstruction and are willing to experiment and potentially modify the product to improve its performance. Those who are comfortable troubleshooting and potentially filing or polishing the handle for a smoother fit may find some value in this product.
Those seeking a reliable, drop-in solution that works flawlessly out of the box should avoid the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger. Owners of high-end ARs who are concerned about potential wear and tear on their receivers should also look elsewhere.
Conclusion on Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger
The Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger offers a compelling concept but suffers from significant execution flaws. While the durable construction and adjustable design are promising, the excessive friction and rough operation make it difficult to recommend in its current state. The numerous reports online of unresponsive customer service further compound the issue.
At $99.95, the price is not justified given the performance shortcomings and potential for receiver damage. I cannot personally recommend the Smith Tactics Side-Kick Co-Charger until the fitment and friction issues are addressed. Until then, explore other charging handle options or consider a dedicated side-charging upper receiver.