The Good, the Bad & the Real of the Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit
As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling gear into submission across every conceivable environment – from fume-filled labs to wind-whipped peaks and grimy workshops – I’ve developed a healthy skepticism for anything that seems too simple, or too expensive for what it is. The Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit falls squarely into the latter category, at first glance. This kit, essentially a pair of specialized screws, is the solution to a very specific problem: mounting Trijicon’s popular SRO red dot sight onto Glock MOS and Springfield OSP pistol slides. My initial reaction was a familiar mix of irritation and grudging respect for Trijicon’s ability to carve out a niche, even for what amounts to hardware. The problem I faced was clear: my new SRO arrived, gleaming and ready for action, but the included screws were clearly too long for the mounting plate on my Glock. Without the correct hardware, the optic was essentially useless on that particular firearm. I briefly considered looking for generic hardware store solutions or specialized gunsmithing screws, but the risk of compromising the optic’s securement and Trijicon’s warranty was too high. This kit, however, promised a direct and approved solution, and that peace of mind, while costing more than anticipated, was ultimately what I sought. My first impression was one of practical necessity; it’s not a piece of gear that inspires awe, but one that solves a frustrating, albeit manufactured, problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing ground for this mounting kit was my personal workbench and the local indoor shooting range, specifically focusing on my Glock MOS pistol equipped with the SRO optic. The goal was straightforward: secure the optic firmly and verify its zero after installation. The process, once the correct screws were in hand, was remarkably simple. The Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit provided two shorter screws, specifically designed to interface correctly with the Glock MOS mounting plate. These screws threaded smoothly, and with a bit of careful torque application using a suitable driver, the SRO sat flush and secure. There were no surprises, no cross-threading, and no need for excessive force, which is always a good sign. The matte black finish of the screws blended seamlessly with the rest of the pistol’s components, a subtle but appreciated detail.
Extended Use & Reliability
Following the initial installation, the SRO and its mounting screws have seen consistent use on the range over several months. This translates to hundreds of rounds fired, from slow, deliberate target practice to rapid strings of fire. The optic has held its zero perfectly, with no discernible shift that could be attributed to the mounting hardware loosening. I’ve also subjected the pistol to the typical bumps and jostles of being carried in a range bag, and even a few accidental drops onto softer surfaces (never concrete, thankfully, but you get the idea). Throughout this period, the mounting screws have remained tight and secure. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down of the firearm usually includes a quick check of the optic’s mounting screws. Compared to the often-fiddly nature of some aftermarket mounting solutions I’ve encountered over the years, the simplicity and reliability of this dedicated kit are a significant advantage.
Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit
Specifications
The Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit is a minimalist affair, focusing on two critical components: two shorter mounting screws and a matte black finish. These screws are specifically engineered to be compatible with Glock MOS and Springfield OSP pistol slides, addressing the incompatibility of the longer screws that typically ship with the SRO optic itself. This compatibility is crucial because the factory screws can be too long, potentially bottoming out in the optic’s housing or not providing adequate thread engagement with the slide’s mounting plate. The matte finish serves a practical purpose, reducing glare and ensuring a consistent aesthetic with other firearm components. While the product description doesn’t specify the exact screw dimensions or thread pitch, their specialized nature is the key selling point.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this mounting kit is to provide a secure and correct mechanical connection between the Trijicon SRO optic and specific pistol slide cuts. In this regard, it performs flawlessly. The shorter screws ensure proper thread engagement without over-penetrating, creating a rock-solid mount that is essential for maintaining zero under recoil. The kit directly solves the problem of the standard screws being too long for certain popular pistol platforms, which is a significant performance enhancement for users of those specific firearms. Its functionality is entirely focused on this critical task, and it delivers without compromise.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design standpoint, the Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit is all about utilitarian simplicity. The screws are straightforward pieces of hardware, but their engineering is precise for their intended application. The matte finish is aesthetically pleasing and functional, preventing unwanted reflections that could be distracting during shooting. While there are no complex ergonomic elements, the heads of the screws are designed to accept a standard Torx driver, which is a common and easily accessible tool. This ensures that installation and removal are straightforward for anyone with basic firearm maintenance knowledge.
Durability & Maintenance
Given that these are essentially screws, their durability is directly tied to the quality of the metal and the manufacturing process. The materials used appear to be robust, exhibiting no signs of stripping or wear even after repeated installations and removals. The matte finish has held up well, showing no significant scratching or wear despite being handled and installed. Maintenance is virtually non-existent beyond ensuring they are clean and properly torqued during installation. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to worry about; they are designed to be a permanent, reliable fixture once installed, unless deliberate removal is needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit itself is an accessory designed to facilitate the mounting of another product, the Trijicon SRO. It does not typically come with any additional accessories. The “customization” aspect lies purely in its specific design to fit certain firearm models, namely Glock MOS and Springfield OSP slides. It doesn’t offer adjustability or modularity in the traditional sense; its purpose is a singular, precise fit. The kit provides the necessary screws, and the user provides the optic and the compatible firearm.
Pros and Cons of Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit
Pros
- Guarantees proper fitment for Trijicon SRO on Glock MOS and Springfield OSP slides, directly addressing a common compatibility issue.
- Features two shorter screws specifically designed to prevent over-penetration and ensure optimal thread engagement.
- Matte black finish offers a non-reflective aesthetic that blends well with firearm components.
- Simple, direct replacement for the oversized screws included with the SRO, eliminating the need for gunsmithing or modification.
- Reliable and secure mounting, essential for maintaining optic zero under recoil and general use.
Cons
- High price point for what amounts to two specialized screws, often perceived as a significant markup for basic hardware.
- Should ideally be included with the Trijicon SRO optic, especially given its popularity on platforms requiring these specific screws.
- Lack of standardization can lead to confusion and unexpected purchase requirements for consumers.
- While functional, the packaging can be excessive for such small items, leading to waste.
Who Should Buy Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit?
This mounting kit is an absolute must-have for any shooter who owns a Glock MOS or Springfield OSP pistol and intends to mount a Trijicon SRO red dot sight. If you’ve purchased an SRO and discovered the included screws are too long for your specific slide, this kit is the direct and intended solution. It eliminates the guesswork and potential risks associated with using incorrect hardware.
However, if you are using a Trijicon SRO on a pistol with a different optic cut or mounting system that uses standard M3 screws, you will likely not need this specific kit. You might also consider looking for bulk hardware solutions if you are building custom slides or have extensive experience with thread depths and screw selection, but for the average user seeking a guaranteed, no-hassle installation, this kit is the way to go. If you plan on mounting an SRO on a Glock MOS or Springfield OSP, budgeting for this small but critical component upfront will save you significant frustration down the line.
Conclusion on Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit
The Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit is a product born out of necessity, designed to solve a very specific and common problem for Trijicon SRO users. While the price is undoubtedly steep for what is essentially two screws, its value lies in its guaranteed compatibility and the security it provides for a high-end optic on popular pistol platforms like the Glock MOS and Springfield OSP. It performs its intended function perfectly, ensuring the optic is mounted correctly and securely, which is paramount for reliable performance.
From a purely practical standpoint, it’s an indispensable item for many users. The frustration of receiving an expensive optic only to find the mounting hardware is incompatible with your firearm is a significant pain point. This kit alleviates that entirely. Despite the cost, the peace of mind and the assurance of a proper, safe installation make the Trijicon SRO Mounting Kit a recommended purchase for anyone in that specific situation. If you have a Glock MOS or Springfield OSP and are mounting an SRO, this is not an accessory you want to skip.