Let’s Talk About Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point
The Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point offers a simple and affordable solution for attaching a QD sling swivel to any M-LOK compatible rail system. Manufactured by Timber Creek, this little piece of kit promises a rugged and lightweight platform for sling attachment. For just under $13, it seems like a no-brainer for anyone looking to add sling versatility to their AR platform, or any other firearm sporting M-LOK rails.
I’ve always advocated for having multiple sling attachment points. A sling is essential for weapon retention and offloading weight during extended carry. I wanted to try out a few different sling configurations on my latest build, and the Timber Creek QD mount seemed like a cost-effective way to experiment.
Upon opening the small package, the Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point appeared well-machined. The anodized finish looked clean, and the included hardware seemed adequate. While the weight was negligible, the aluminum construction felt solid enough to withstand some abuse.
Several other options exist, including those from Magpul and BCM. However, I was drawn to the lower price point of the Timber Creek offering. I’ve used other Timber Creek products in the past with mixed results, but I was willing to give this a shot considering its simplicity.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The mount looked decent, but I had some reservations about the potential for a less-than-perfect fit, given some of the online feedback I’d seen prior to purchasing. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at an outdoor range during a carbine course. I attached the Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point to my AR-15’s forend and ran drills involving transitions, movement, and positional shooting. The weather was dry, with temperatures in the mid-70s.
The mount was easy to install, but I immediately noticed that my Magpul QD sling swivel felt a bit loose and wobbly. While it didn’t completely detach on its own, there was noticeable play, which was concerning. This was definitely not ideal.
After about an hour of drills, the looseness became more pronounced. I even had one instance where the swivel partially disengaged after bumping the rifle against a barricade. This raised serious questions about the mount’s reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial range session, I continued to use the Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point during several more outings over the course of a few months. These included a rainy day at the range and a dusty training session in the desert. The mount held up physically, with no signs of bending or cracking, but the QD fitment issues persisted.
The anodized finish showed some minor wear around the QD socket. The mount was easy enough to clean with a brush and some solvent. Compared to my experience with other QD mounts (particularly those made to tighter tolerances), the Timber Creek offering definitely fell short.
Breaking Down the Features of Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Timber Creek. This is a known aftermarket parts manufacturer in the AR-15 space.
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum. This ensures a lightweight and relatively strong construction.
- Gun Rail: M-LOK. Designed specifically for M-LOK rail systems, which are increasingly popular.
- Gun Make: AR Platform. While designed for ARs, it’s compatible with any firearm that utilizes M-LOK rails.
- Condition: New. Straight out of the packaging and ready for install.
These specifications are important because they dictate the mount’s compatibility, weight, and strength. The aircraft-grade aluminum aims for a balance between durability and lightweight design.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point is to provide a secure attachment point for QD sling swivels. However, the loose fit with various QD swivels detracts significantly from its performance. The mount technically works, but the wobble and potential for accidental disengagement are serious drawbacks.
The mount’s strength seems adequate for holding the weight of a rifle. The questionable QD fitment makes it unreliable for dynamic applications. It does not meet my expectations for a secure sling attachment point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and unobtrusive. It doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rail system. The smooth edges prevent snagging on gear, and the low profile makes it relatively comfortable to grip the rifle around the mount.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only an Allen wrench. The ease of installation is a plus, but it doesn’t compensate for the functional issues.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction should provide reasonable longevity. The anodized finish will eventually wear with use. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down is all that’s needed.
Given the price point and the materials used, the mount should last for several years under normal use. The questionable QD fitment is more likely to be the limiting factor than outright breakage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. It’s designed to be compatible with any standard QD sling swivel. However, as previously mentioned, compatibility can be hit or miss.
While the mount itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, the location on the M-LOK rail can be adjusted to suit the user’s preferences. Its compatibility with other M-LOK accessories is unaffected.
Pros and Cons of Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point
Pros
- Low price point makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious builders.
- Lightweight aluminum construction adds minimal weight to the firearm.
- Simple and easy to install on any M-LOK compatible rail.
- Low profile design doesn’t interfere with grip or other accessories.
- Visually appealing anodized finish.
Cons
- Inconsistent QD swivel fit can lead to wobble and potential disengagement.
- Questionable reliability makes it unsuitable for duty use or high-stress situations.
- Finish may wear quickly with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point?
The Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point might be suitable for casual range shooters who are on a very tight budget and aren’t overly concerned with absolute reliability. It could also work as a temporary solution while waiting for a higher-quality mount to become available. Those looking for a durable and reliable sling attachment point for duty, competition, or serious training should skip this product.
A higher-quality QD sling swivel (from a reputable brand like Magpul or BCM) is a must-have, but even then, the fitment issues with the Timber Creek mount may persist. Consider purchasing thread locker for the M-LOK screws to ensure they stay in place.
Conclusion on Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point
The Timber Creek M-Lok Quick Disconnect Mounting Point promises a lot for a small price. However, the inconsistent QD fitment is a significant drawback. The value proposition is questionable, as the potential for failure outweighs the savings for serious users.
I would not personally recommend it for anyone who relies on their firearm for self-defense or professional use. While it might suffice for casual use, there are better options available for a slightly higher price. Spend a little more to ensure a secure and reliable sling attachment.