Product Spotlight: SideLok Mounts
Introduction to Sidelok Mounts
Hey everyone, Caleb here from Brownells. I had the chance to sit down with Steven from Kinetic Development Group to dive into a really cool product—the Sidelok Mounts. These mounts are a game-changer when it comes to quick-detach (QD) solutions for your optics. If you’ve been looking for a mount that’s both secure and easy to use, you’ll definitely want to check this out.
Design and Functionality
Steven kicked things off by explaining what makes the Sidelok Mounts stand out. Unlike traditional QD mounts, the Sidelok doesn’t rely on cams along the sides. Instead, it features a unique locking mechanism that truly makes it a quick-detach system. The mount locks into the open position, making it easy to attach to your rail. You simply roll it onto the rail, and it locks in securely. And yes, it does return to zero, which is a huge plus for those of us who demand precision.
Independent Clamps and Return-to-Zero
One of the standout features of the Sidelok Mount is the independent clamps. These clamps work separately, which is one of the reasons the mount can maintain its zero even after being removed and reattached. Steven showed how these clamps engage with the rail and how they’re designed to work with a variety of optics, including ACOGs, LPVOs, and red dots. This independent action is what allows the mount to consistently return to zero across different platforms.
Installing and Using the Mount
Now, let’s talk about how easy it is to install and use the Sidelok Mount. Unlike other mounts where you need to push down and forward to seat them properly, the Sidelok is designed to be rolled onto the rail from the side. This makes the process much quicker and more intuitive. After spending just a few minutes with it, you’ll become proficient at moving it between different optics and platforms. Even I could do it on the first try!
Secondary Safety Features
One thing that really impressed me was the built-in secondary safety feature. When you try to release the mount, there’s a secondary safety button that needs to be depressed before it can be removed. This means the mount won’t just pop off if it gets bumped or knocked around. It’s a small detail, but it adds a lot of peace of mind, especially if you’re using your firearm in dynamic environments.
Additional Innovations and Closing Thoughts
Steven also hinted at some exciting updates coming down the line for the Sidelok Mounts, including a version with three keys for even better engagement. They’re also seeing a big uptick in the use of these mounts for thermals, which speaks to their versatility. I’ve seen a lot of mounts in my time, but this one truly stands out for its innovation and ease of use. If you’re in the market for a new QD mount, or if you just want to upgrade your current setup, the Sidelok is definitely worth considering. Big thanks to Steven and the team at Kinetic Development Group for sharing this with us. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to drop them below if you’re watching this on YouTube. And as always, if you need any help, give us a call on the Brownells tech line or reach out to Kinetic Development Group directly. Thanks for joining me, and I’ll see you next time!
