High Ground Media, LLC

As one of its ‘Legacy’ mount systems, the 1700 riser series of optic mounts remains one of the core attachment systems by American Defense Manufacturing (ADM). The 1700 comes in two versions, a double throw lever (featured) and single, and is made from using 6061 T6 aluminum.

Made from 6061 T6 aluminum, the 1700 series riser is a segmented mount (with the MIL-STD-1913 rail removable from the base) and is available in four different styles. These styles include a base-only, regular 4” length with Quick Disconnect (QD) locking latches (standard—featured in this review—or titanium), or as an extended 5.5” mount with QD locking latches for optic use with magnifier.

The MIL-STD-1913 rail is secured to the base via two set screws and can mount any associated rail-based accessory. It also adds 0.60” rise in optic alignment over the mounting surface

On the base of the 1700 series riser is ADM’s patented Auto Lock™ QD throw lever (or optional titanium throw lever). The QD lever itself uses a push-button locking mechanism, cross-bolt, and adjustable nut that allows for the mount to fit both spec and out-of-spec rail systems.

The 1700 riser series is available only in Black (featured).

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): Depending on which length of riser mount selected, the 1700 riser ($140) is made from the same 6061 T6 aluminum as other ADM mounts, and is an appropriate material for many quality mounts and other accessories on the current market. The mounts are also made via direct CNC machining that provides a clean surface, thus there is no seam or mold markings, and includes dual locking QD throw lever to quickly attach/detach the mounts (and optic) to any MIL-STD-1913 rail. In contrast, similar mounts like the Fast Optic Riser ($99) by Unity Tactical, or the Optics AR15 Riser ($199) from Vortex represent some of the newer picatinny rail mounts risers on the market. And while lower quality and inexpensive options also available, for its price, the 1700 series riser  is of an appropriate (or average) price value for its cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the adjustability of the mount’s dual QD throw levers allowed it to accommodate any picatinny-rail mount the optic was being fitted against. It also allowed the end-user to fine tune the sizing and finding a comfortable tension behind the QD Auto Lock’s spring that ensured a solid lock. It did get a little tight in manipulating both QD locks when one was open and the other locked, but manageable. But both locks gave the mounts a solid purchase on the rifle that had no excess movement in the overall optic. Otherwise, as a picatinny riser, there was no disassembly or reassembly of mount components and was basically direct attachment ready. Lastly, the variable length options for the mount allotted the end-user to utilize an overall length that was appropriate to their individual needs with either stand-alone optics or in conjunction with magnifiers.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The 1700 series riser was made of 6061 T6 aluminum  and finished in the same T3 mil-spec anodization as other ADM mounts which, over the course of two months and a number of iterations changing between and usage on a rifle, and transport—showed any significant signs of wear aside from minor surface marring or minor tool marks from adjusting/removing the optics (none of which penetrated into the sub-surface aluminum). Minor wear/fading was noted to the white surface markings (though was purely cosmetic). Moreover the locking mechanism and spring to the Auto Lock remained consistent once an appropriate size was identified, and continually retained tension.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the 1700 series riser was simplistic and added the necessary height that otherwise put optics within the necessary and comfortable height over bore if running night vision or other accessories. Thus while it came down to end-user intent on what to attach to the mount, the 1700 offered sufficient length for any full-sized EoTech optics (such as the 512), or smaller red dots with a solid lock mitigating excess movement regardless of platform and associated recoil. Otherwise, the dual QD mechanisms provided a clear and tangible lock when the proper adjustment was made. For its solid design and performance, the 1700 series offered a good performance in simple function.
• Weight – Average (3/5): From a weight perspective, the evaluated 1700 riser mount came in at 5.6 ounces, and had a appropriate (or average) weight given its mass in aluminum and dual QD locking mechanisms. As such, the mount alone was neither excessively heavy nor excessively unbalanced the firearm on which it was mounted. In contrast, the Fast Optic Riser (2.8 ounces) by Unity Tactical, or the Optics AR15 Riser (3.0 ounces) from Vortex all demonstrate the minimal variance in weight. and that the added second QD Auto Lock mechanism on the ADM mount directly attributed to the added weight with the tradeoff being added security.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.admmfg.com/ad-1700-r-dual-qd-base

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Released in 2022, the Sidewinder Stalk is the latest in hands-free illumination in the Sidewinder line of products from Streamlight. The Stalk is a variable helmet mount illumination device that provides adequate light for the tactical environment without becoming a hinderance.

Made from a high-impact nylon polymer housing, the 5.51” (L) x 1.81” (H) x 0.86” (W) Stalk features an LED light head on an extended, flexible stalk that allows the end user to adjust the beam location to best suit their needs. Rubberized gaskets at all openings give the Stalk an IP67 water and dust resistant rating.

The main housing for the Stalk allows the end-user to select through multiple modes as the mission allows. The ON/OFF activation button is rubberized to protect against moisture penetration. At the Selector Wheel located on the top of the Stalk, the disc rotates to cycle through:

• W: White Light – Three intensities (LOW/MED/HI) selected by using the activation button to press-hold, while the LED emitter cycles between the three different lumen outputs. Release to select the desired output level. Depending on power source, the HIGH lumen output varies between 57 lumens (AA battery) and 76 lumens (CR123a battery).
• IR: Infrared emitter
• C: Color – Three colored LED emitter (Red/Green/Blue) selected by pressing the activation button five times, and holding on the fifth. This will cycle the colored LED light and release when the desired color is chosen.
• Off: Off

Behind the Selector Wheel is a three-position Identify Friend-or-Foe (IFF) throw switch that activates the strobe emitter located in the center of the Selector Wheel. The throw switch includes a lock-out bar that keeps the switch in the center OFF position unless removed.

At the rear of the Stalk is the battery cap that grants access to the power unit after removing its own lock-out bar. The Stalk is multiple power device, and can utilize either a AA lithium battery (giving a 23m beam on HIGH for 6 continual hours), a AA alkaline battery (giving a 23m beam on HIGH for 3.8 hours of continual runtime), or a CR123a battery (giving a 28m beam on HIGH for 5.6 continual hours).

The Stalk also includes multiple mounting platforms that allow the main unit to be used in a variety of configurations. While the Stalk is principally designed for Ops-Core’s Arc-Rail system; users can opt for an E-Mount Kit that enables the Stalk to mount to MICH style helmets, a hook-and-loop panel (with Arc-Rail segment) for direct mounting to any associated helmet panel. A Rail Mount (for STD 1913 picatinny rails) is also available for Team Wendy rails, as well as two variants to mount the Stalk to night vision helmet mounts.

The Sidewinder Stalk is available only in tan (featured).  

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): With its list MSRP of $128, the Sidewinder Stalk brings together a multi-function helmet light in a durable unit body. Multiple mounting solutions ensure that the Stalk can be utilized regardless of equipment. In comparison, the closest market alternatives that are similar to the Stalk include the Princeton Tec Charge ($109.99), and the Surefire Helmet Light ($171.00)—however neither of those options include an integrated IR/IFF strobe feature. As such, the price of the Stalk is good in contrast to the market and the added features provided that are not included elsewhere currently on the market.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): From a comfort aspect, the multi-function and variable lumen output of the Stalk ensured the helmet light provided a good level of overall comfort to the end-user. With the LED element having an output between 57 and 76 the white light was neither blinding nor overwhelming, and allowed the end-user to select the appropriate setting based on mission needs. Likewise, the color settings had an output between 8 (for blue) and 20 (for green) lumens, so lower powered output settings made tactical low-light settings easier to maintain discipline. Elsewhere, it was noted both the Selector Wheel and activation button both gave a good audible and tangible click when manipulated that helped convey operation without directly being in the visual line of sight. The only negative aspect from a comfort perspective relates to the overall bulk of Stalk when using any other mount excluding the Arc Rail mount. While the Stalk was clearly designed with the Ops Core rail in mind, giving it a tight and flush mount against the Arc Rail, the E-Mount and Rail Mount gave the Stalk a much more pronounced profile off of the side of helmet. Perhaps a suggestion to Streamlight that could close that disparity would be to offer a variant of the Stalk with an integrated 1913 rail mount designed into the main housing body so it could direct-mount to other helmet rail designs.
• Durability – Average (3/5):As a helmet-mounted light, the Stalk encountered frequent contact with various surfaces regardless if worn on MOLLE or the helmet, especially in more dynamic environments such as indoors or field brush. That said, the polymer housing mitigated all of those impacts very well, and the lens to the LED emitter did not become compromised in any way. Drop testing was performed (by dropping the Stalk at shoulder height 10 times onto finished concrete), and despite some superficial marring consistent with nylon polymers, neither the body nor controls became damaged. It should be noted at one point the Stalk took a strike directly on the battery cap and the LED emitter stopped functioning – but after changing over from a CR123a to AA power source, the Stalk resumed functioning. Additionally, changing back to a CR123a the Stalk also continued to work. This may have been the result of a minor separation between the connectors when dropped, but by switching power sources that connection was reestablished. The various mounting styles also held up well and maintained a solid/secure lock to the Stalk despite the various impacts to the light.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): Functionally, the Stalk demonstrated good performance to project sufficient lumens at variable outputs so that the end-user could read maps, manipulate controls, or otherwise function in any dark environmentally. The LED stalk and Selector Wheel were easy to manipulate while mounted to the helmet, and the latter smoothly selected the desired light setting. The programming between intensity and color necessitated those settings be pre-selected before use, as performing those program selection actions was a little challenging while the Stalk was mounted. The IR strobe lock-out bar and battery cap lockout-bar both ensured positive control and prevented accidental usage or opening. Perhaps the only aspect of the Stalk’s functionality recommended for improvement would be the restrictive unit design for Arc Rail only (as previously discussed) with the alternative mounting points proving to give the Stalk a rather pronounced profile off the helment.
• Weight – Average (3/5): The Stalk emitter housing and light weighed in at 2.6 ounces, yet the final overall weight was determined by the mounting method selected. Each of the alternative mounts (E-Mount, Rail Mount, Hook-and-Loop) had a miniscule mass in comparison, and added an average of just 0.2 ounces. Regardless of power source opted for, the combined functions packed a lot of functionality into a very lightweight package. None of this added to, nor resulted in the Stalk becoming off-balancing when mounted to one side of the helmet or the other. In contrast, the Princeton Tec Charge (1.67 ounces), and the Surefire Helmet Light (3.10 ounces) illustrate that the Sidewinder Stalk is appropriate (or average) in terms of weight within the market and with its design.

Overall Rating – Above Average (18/25)

Product Link: https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/index/sidewinder-stalk

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

With the approaching hunting season, shooters will need to prepare for taking the long shot. Whether this is in a tree, on the ground, or stalking among the trees the ability to accurately judge distance and the affects on shot placement can spell the differences between a successful season or getting skunked. The Impact rangefinder by Vortex allows for all-season, accurate range estimation that will help hunters and distance shooters.

The Impact 850 rangefinder is a precise laser ranging device that can register objects up to 850 meters (for reflective targets) or 400 meters (for targets that absorb the laser light, or “soft” targets). It’s accuracy and lightweight, minimalist design can benefit both rifle/pistol shooters, hunters, and competitive distance shooters.

Internally, the Impact is sealed with all external openings or compartments having rubberized O-rings that prevent penetration by moisture. The optical and laser lenses are coated in multiple layers of anti-reflective sealant that maximizes light emission from the rangefinder to the target and back. The adjustable optical lens includes an adjustable eye relief to adjust the image focus.

Features of the Impact include a two Mode function:

• Horizontal Component Distance (HCD) mode for angle compensated ranging to give bow and rifle shooters the critical distance data needed to make accurate shots.
• Line of Sight (LOS) mode displays actual line of sight range.

While the Impact includes angled compensation, the user can also select between “METER” or “YARD” range displays. By holding the “Measure” button, the Impact also uses a continual “scan” feature that allows for on-the-move tracking of the target if needed.

The Impact 850 is powered by a single CR2 battery that gives the rangefinder approximately 5,000 cycles. With the programming’s included auto-shutoff feature, after 10 seconds of inactivity the Impact will turn off. This ensures longevity of the rangefinder, along with the included wrist lanyard that prevents accidental droppage.

Specifications:

• Range Reflective (yards) 850 yards
• Range Deer (yards) 400 yards
• Accuracy + / – 1 yards @ 100 yards
• Max Angle Reading + / – 60 degrees
• Magnification 6x
• Linear Field of View 341 feet/1000 yards
• Angular Field of View 6.5 degrees
• Eye Relief 15 mm
• Length 3.77 inches
• Width 2.95 inches
• Weight 5.5 oz

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $269.99 the Impact is the base model of rangefinder by Vortex, and the most affordable in its rangefinder lineup. It can be found on second/third-party vendor websites for as low as $199, but again care needs to be exercised in choosing a credible retailer. In comparison to market alternatives, the Leupold Marksman 1000 ($229), Sig Sauer KILO 1600 ($299) and Bushnell NITRO 6×20 ($299) all exemplify that the market on rangefinders is diverse and the Impact remains one of the more affordable and simplified rangefinders.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): Roughly the size of a 3×5 index card, the Impact fit nicely in the palm and was large enough to be held by one hand (although using a single hand is not ideal for rangefinding). The MODE and MEASURE buttons were oversized and made pressing them with any finger easy. The light weight also made the Impact easily carried and something that, when added to a vest or lanyard, not uncomfortable or tiresome. The eye relief was adjustable so although wearing eyeglasses was not feasible, the adjustable field of view for the Impact was able to be easily brought into focus.
• Durability – Good (4/5): The Impact had a rigid polymer housing similar to other laser rangefinders on the market. This provides a significant level of protection to the light emitter inside. The buttons, lenses, and battery compartment were all sealed with rubberized O-rings and gave the Impact a moderate degree of water resistance (for rain or droppage into a puddle or stream). The demo model provided did not come with a wrist lanyard, but typically the Impact would have one to secure the device to the wrist. In the event there is any problems with the Impact, like all Vortex products, it is covered under Vortex’s no-questions-asked VIP Warranty.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): While the digital programming of the Impact allowed for a significant measurement of distance; other functions aided in proper shot placement, range estimation, and evaluating angles. Using a .308 caliber rifle, our local range only allowed us to evaluate the Impact’s performance as it related to functional performance—not skill of the shooter to place shots. The angled HCD function would be ideal for those utilizing tree stands during rifle or archery season. The LCD display clearly read out the distance, current mode, viewing angle, and battery life. Although the Impact was tested for several hours, the CR2 held at full battery strength.
• Weight – Average (3/5): The overall Impact rangefinder weighed just 5.5 ounces, and was lighter than most field equipment that would otherwise be carried. This makes the Impact’s functionality and comfort very important and, when combined with its affordability, a very beneficial part of range shooting or hunting. In comparison, other units vary in weight, such as the Leupold Marksman (6.2 ounces), Sig Sauer KILO (5 ounces) and the Bushnell NITRO (5.5. ounces) but not to a significant degree. This makes the Impact of average weight within the current market.

Overall Rating – Above Average (19/25)

Product Link: https://vortexoptics.com/catalog/product/view/id/1833

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.