How I Used the Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount and What I Found
For years, I’ve relied on my trusted firearms for various tasks, from precise workshop adjustments to ensuring accuracy on the range. A recent project involved fitting an optic to a well-loved but iron-sighted pistol, and I was looking for a robust solution. The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount immediately caught my eye for its promise of a solid, adaptable platform. This mount is designed to replace a standard rear sight dovetail, offering a blank canvas for red dot sight installation.
My journey to this specific mount began with a desire to modernize an older handgun without permanent modifications. I wanted the benefits of a red dot sight – faster target acquisition and better low-light performance – but I was hesitant about milling the slide. The idea of a direct dovetail replacement that could be removed at any time was incredibly appealing. I considered a few other universal dovetail adapters, but the direct compatibility with popular optics like the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, a footprint I’m familiar with, made the EGW offering stand out. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship. The weight and finish suggested a product built for longevity, not just aesthetics.
Real-World Testing: Putting Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount to the Test
My testing grounds for this mount were primarily my workbench and a familiar indoor shooting range. The goal was to see how easily it could be installed and, more importantly, how well it held zero under recoil and repeated manipulation. I also subjected it to the typical dust and grime of a home workshop environment to gauge its resilience.
First Use Experience
Installation was straightforward, assuming one is comfortable with basic firearm disassembly. Removing the existing rear sight revealed a clean dovetail, and the EGW mount slid in with a satisfyingly snug fit. The included hardware was adequate, and applying blue Loctite as instructed felt like the right step for a component subjected to vibration.
Placing a small piece of paper between the red dot and the mount, as suggested, did indeed make alignment easier and prevented accidental Loctite adhesion to the optic itself. Torquing the screws to spec was critical, and the 5/64” Allen wrench fit precisely. My first range trip was promising; the optic remained securely mounted, and my zero held steady through several magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including numerous range sessions and some time spent on my cluttered workbench, the mount has proven remarkably reliable. There are no visible signs of wear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs from handling tools, and importantly, the optic has not shifted. The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount has performed without any hiccups, maintaining its zero through hundreds of rounds.
Cleaning is as simple as wiping down the firearm and mount; the matte black hard coat anodized finish resists fingerprints and minor shop debris. Compared to some flimsy universal mounts I’ve used in the past, this EGW unit feels significantly more robust and dependable. Its ability to maintain a secure platform for the optic speaks volumes about its design and manufacturing.
Breaking Down the Features of Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount
The core of this product lies in its simplicity and its intended function: to provide a stable, direct mount for specific red dot sights into a firearm’s existing rear sight dovetail.
Specifications
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount is constructed from 7075 Aluminum, a material known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for firearm components. Its dimensions are listed as 1.604 inches in length and 0.99 inches in width, designed to fit standard pistol dovetails. The Matte Black Hard Coat Anodized finish offers durability and a non-reflective surface, which is crucial for firearm accessories.
This mount features a Dovetail Mount Type, specifically designed to replace the rear sight. It is a Blank Sight Mount, meaning it does not have a built-in aiming solution itself but is intended as a base for an optic. The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint is standard, but it also accommodates other compatible optics such as the JPoint, Redfield Accelerator, and Optima. A notable point is its compatibility with the Holosun 407K and 507K, provided the rear pins are removed. This is a critical modification for those seeking to use those specific optics. The mount includes the necessary Screws for installation, and the requirement for a 5/64” Allen wrench is clearly stated.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, the EGW mount excels. It provides a solid and stable platform for red dot sights. My tests showed that once installed and torqued correctly, the optic remained locked in place, and the point of aim did not deviate. This is crucial for maintaining accuracy shot after shot, especially during dynamic shooting drills or sustained fire.
The main strength of this mount is its direct replacement nature, avoiding the need for slide milling. Its compatibility with a range of popular micro-red dots is a significant advantage. The only functional limitation I encountered, which is explicitly noted by the manufacturer, is the need to modify the mount for Holosun 407K/507K compatibility. This blank slate approach, while versatile, requires the user to ensure their chosen optic mates correctly, sometimes with minor adjustments.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is utilitarian and robust, prioritizing function over form. The 7075 Aluminum construction feels substantial and well-machined. The matte black finish blends in well with most firearm aesthetics and provides a good grip surface, though direct handling is minimal once installed. Its low profile ensures it doesn’t add excessive bulk or interfere with the natural handling of the pistol.
Ergonomically, once installed, the mount becomes a seamless part of the firearm. The mounting points for the optic are precise, and the included screws are of good quality. There’s no significant “learning curve” to the mount itself; its integration into the firearm’s design is its key ergonomic strength.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from 7075 Aluminum and a hard coat anodized finish, this mount is built for durability. I expect it to withstand years of regular use in various conditions. The design has no complex moving parts prone to failure, which enhances its longevity.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth is usually sufficient. For more thorough cleaning, a mild solvent can be used, but care should be taken to avoid aggressive chemicals that could damage the finish. The lack of intricate components means there are few potential failure points, making it a low-maintenance accessory.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount comes with the essential mounting hardware, primarily the screws to attach the red dot optic. It does not include additional accessories beyond what is necessary for its core function. However, the “blank” nature of the mount itself is its primary customization feature.
Users can choose from a range of compatible red dot sights, tailoring the setup to their specific needs and preferences. The manufacturer also clearly lists which optics are directly compatible and which require minor modifications, such as the removal of rear pins for the Holosun 407K/507K. This allows for a degree of personalization based on optic choice.
Pros and Cons of Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount
Pros
- Solid Construction: Made from 7075 Aluminum with a Matte Black Hard Coat Anodized finish, offering excellent durability and resistance to wear.
- Direct Dovetail Replacement: Installs into the rear sight dovetail, eliminating the need for permanent slide milling and allowing for easy removal.
- Versatile Optic Compatibility: Designed for the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint, it also accommodates other compatible sights like JPoint, Redfield Accelerator, and Optima.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Provides a way to mount a red dot sight without the expense of slide modification or specialized optic-cut slides.
- Straightforward Installation: With basic firearm tools and knowledge, installation is generally simple and accessible.
Cons
- Requires Optic-Specific Modification: For certain optics like the Holosun 407K/507K, the rear pins must be removed via milling or filing, which adds a step and requires specialized tools or gunsmithing.
- Gunsmith Fit Required: While generally an easy install, precise fitting into the dovetail can sometimes require minor adjustments depending on the firearm’s tolerances.
- No Built-in Sights: As a blank mount, it provides no co-witness capability with iron sights unless an optic with that feature is mounted on it.
Who Should Buy Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount?
This Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount is an ideal choice for pistol owners looking to add a red dot sight to a firearm without permanent slide modifications. It’s perfect for individuals who value the ability to revert their firearm to its original configuration. The shooter who wants to experiment with red dot technology on a budget, or who owns firearms with limited aftermarket optic cut options, will find this mount particularly useful.
Conversely, those seeking a permanent, integrated optic cut solution or who want guaranteed co-witness capability with iron sights straight out of the box might consider other options. Users who do not possess the tools or skills to perform the minor modifications required for certain optics, like the Holosun K-series, should either seek professional gunsmithing or choose a different mount. It’s also important to verify that your specific firearm’s rear sight dovetail dimensions are compatible with this mount’s design.
Conclusion on Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount
The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Blank Mount stands out as a practical and well-made solution for handgun owners wishing to embrace the advantages of red dot optics. Its construction from 7075 Aluminum and the robust hard coat anodized finish speak to its durability, promising a long service life. The ability to install it directly into the rear sight dovetail without permanent alteration to the firearm is a significant selling point, offering flexibility and a cost-effective entry into the world of pistol-mounted red dots.
While it provides excellent compatibility for a range of popular optics, the necessity for some users to perform minor modifications, such as filing pins for Holosun K-series sights, is a point of consideration. However, for those comfortable with or willing to engage a gunsmith for such tasks, the mount offers exceptional value. For anyone seeking a reliable, non-permanent way to mount a DeltaPoint Pro-footprint optic, this EGW product delivers on its promise, providing a stable and trustworthy platform. It’s a smart investment for upgrading older handguns or firearms lacking native optic cuts.