Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed Review

From Curiosity to Confidence: My Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed Review

As an equipment specialist with over a decade immersed in diverse environments, from rugged outdoor expeditions to meticulous laboratory work, I approach new gear with a blend of seasoned skepticism and eager anticipation. The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed presented a particular challenge: bridging the gap between a reliable firearm and modern optic technology for a specific platform. My Kimber 1911, a cherished piece for its classic feel and accuracy, was crying out for an upgrade to a red dot sight, a move that promised to enhance speed and target acquisition. The inherent limitations of traditional iron sights, especially in variable lighting conditions, had become increasingly apparent during range sessions.

Initial impressions of the mount were mixed. The 7075 Aluminum construction felt solid, and the Matte Black Hard Coat Anodized finish offered a professional, non-reflective look that complemented the firearm. However, a quick comparison to a few other aftermarket solutions revealed a slightly more utilitarian design compared to some machined-to-perfection, albeit more expensive, options. Still, the promise of a direct replacement for the rear sight, avoiding the need for permanent slide modification, was a significant draw. The included hardware and straightforward installation instructions offered a glimmer of hope for a seamless integration.

My journey to this particular mount wasn’t entirely linear. I’d considered milling the slide itself, a route that offers the most secure and integrated solution but comes with a substantial cost and potential warranty implications. Other manufacturers offered dovetail mounts, but compatibility with the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint, a critical requirement for my chosen optic, was often a hit-or-miss affair. This EGW offering seemed to strike a balance, promising compatibility with several popular red dots, including the DeltaPoint Pro, and a price point that was considerably more accessible than professional milling. My initial hope was that this mount would be a plug-and-play solution, enhancing my Kimber’s capabilities without unnecessary complexity.

Real-World Testing: Putting Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed to the Test

My primary testing ground for this mount was the familiar comfort of my home workshop and the echoing bays of my local indoor shooting range. The initial installation attempt was a stark reminder that “drop-in” is often a relative term in the firearm accessory world. While the mount’s dovetail shape was correct, the tolerances were notably tighter than expected. It required a significant amount of careful filing and buffing to persuade it into the Kimber’s rear sight dovetail. This wasn’t a quick swap; it became a project that demanded patience and precision.

Under repeated firing, especially with hotter 9mm loads, the mount remained securely seated once properly fitted. I ran approximately 200 rounds through the Kimber with the red dot attached, varying from rapid strings to slower, deliberate shots. The progressive taper of the dovetail, as advertised, did offer some assistance during the fitting process, preventing it from binding completely, but it certainly didn’t eliminate the need for custom fitting. I also noted that the black anodized finish, while aesthetically pleasing, showed minor scuff marks along the edges after the fitting process, indicating it might not be the most resilient coating against abrasion.

Extended use over several weeks confirmed its functional, albeit not flawless, performance. The primary role of this mount is to securely hold an optic, and once fitted, it accomplishes this task. However, the user feedback I encountered online echoed my own experience: the included mounting screws for attaching the optic to the mount were incorrect. The specified 8/32 screws were too large for the 6/32 threaded holes in the mount, forcing me to source the correct fasteners from my personal stash of gunsmithing hardware. This oversight by the manufacturer is a significant inconvenience and an area that absolutely needs attention. It’s a detail that, if overlooked by a less experienced user, could halt an installation entirely or lead to overtightening and damage.

First Use Experience

The initial fitting process for the Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed was, frankly, frustrating. The dovetail on the mount was noticeably oversized for my Kimber Custom II 1911. I spent a good hour with a fine file and a brass brush, meticulously removing material from the mount’s flanks until it would even begin to engage the slide’s dovetail cut. This is not a task for the faint of heart or those unfamiliar with firearm fitting procedures.

Once I finally managed to drift the mount into place, I immediately noticed the limited number of locking lugs – only two, which felt less secure than I’d hoped for a pistol that might see some rough handling. Attaching my Leupold DeltaPoint Pro optic revealed another hurdle: the included screws for mounting the optic to the base were the wrong size. The mount requires 6/32 screws, but the package contained 8/32 screws, which simply would not thread. This meant an immediate trip to the local hardware store for the correct fasteners, adding unexpected time and expense to the process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After the initial fitting challenges and securing the correct screws, the mount performed its core function reliably. My Kimber Custom II, equipped with the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro mounted via the EGW base, held zero through several range sessions, including one where I deliberately subjected the pistol to rapid firing sequences. The two lugs, while initially concerning, proved adequate for keeping the optic aligned. The slightly oversized nature of the mount, once it was finally seated, actually created a very snug fit that I suspect contributed to its stability.

Maintenance was straightforward, as the mount itself requires little beyond occasional cleaning. However, the matte black finish is susceptible to scratching, particularly around the edges where fitting was necessary. I found that after about 50 rounds, the mount itself remained solid, and the optic stayed put. The main point of concern is the initial quality control regarding the included hardware and the precise fit of the dovetail. If not for my experience and willingness to modify, many users would likely find this mount unacceptably problematic out of the box.

Breaking Down the Features of Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed

The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed is designed to replace the factory rear sight on compatible 1911 pistols, providing a stable platform for miniature red dot sights. It leverages the existing dovetail cut, minimizing the need for permanent firearm modification. The mount is crafted from 7075 Aluminum, a material known for its strength and lightweight properties, and finished with a matte black hard coat anodization.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Evolution Gun Works (EGW)
• Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Designed for Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, JPoint, Redfield Accelerator, Optima, and Shield RMS/RMSc/SMS. Compatibility with Holosun 407K/507K requires modification (removal of rear pins).
• Included Accessories: Mounting screws (though these were reported as the incorrect size in my experience, requiring the user to source proper 6/32 screws for optic attachment).
• Mount Type: Dovetail mount, designed to replace the rear sight.
• Fabric/Material: 7075 Aluminum.
• Color: Matte Black.
• Finish: Matte Black Hard Coat Anodized.
• Fit: Specifically designed for Kimber 1911’s with Fixed Rear Sights. It also notes compatibility, with significant fitting required, for Desert Eagle 1911G and 1911C models.
• Dimensions: Length: 1.604 inches, Width: 0.99 inches.
• Gun Make: Kimber.
• Gun Type: Pistol.

The 7075 Aluminum construction is a key specification, offering a good balance of durability and weight savings. The Matte Black Hard Coat Anodized finish is typical for firearm accessories, aiming for corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. The progressive taper of the dovetail is intended to ease installation, a feature that, while present, requires significant user effort for a proper fit. The specified dimensions indicate a compact footprint, designed to integrate cleanly onto the slide without excessive overhang.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this optic mount is to provide a secure and stable platform for a red dot sight. Once fitted, the Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed performs this role adequately, allowing the optic to maintain zero through recoil. However, the process of achieving that performance is where significant challenges lie. The oversized nature of the dovetail requires careful and often tedious fitting, and the incorrect included mounting screws are a major functional drawback that detracts significantly from the user experience.

The mount’s ability to hold zero is its strongest point once installation is complete. It effectively translates the optic’s aiming point to the target without perceivable shift. Its greatest weakness is the inconsistent manufacturing tolerances and the glaring error in the included hardware, which necessitates additional work and expense for the end-user. It meets the basic expectation of holding an optic but falls short of a truly seamless, ready-to-go product.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is intentionally simple: a block of aluminum machined to interface with a firearm’s dovetail and provide a mounting surface for a red dot. The matte black finish offers a subdued aesthetic that blends well with most firearms. Ergonomically, once installed, the mount is unobtrusive. The user’s interaction with the mount is primarily during installation, which, as noted, is far from ergonomic or intuitive due to the fitting requirements.

The inclusion of only two lugs for alignment is a design choice that might concern some users accustomed to rear sights with more extensive engagement points. While functional, it doesn’t inspire the same sense of robust mechanical lock as some more integrated solutions. The progressive taper is a thoughtful design element meant to assist installation, but its effectiveness is largely overshadowed by the need for significant material removal elsewhere on the mount.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7075 Aluminum material offers good inherent durability against bending or deformation. The matte black hard coat anodized finish provides a decent layer of protection against corrosion. However, the coating can be prone to marring and scratching, particularly along edges that require filing during fitting. For a product intended to be installed, often with some force, this lack of scratch resistance is a minor concern.

Maintenance is minimal; the mount itself requires only occasional cleaning to remove debris or carbon fouling. The critical factor for long-term durability lies in the accuracy of the initial fit. A mount that is too tight and forced into place could potentially stress the dovetail on the firearm, or conversely, a poorly fitted mount could loosen over time. The user must ensure a precise fit for longevity, which is a significant responsibility placed on the consumer.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessory included with the Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed is the set of mounting screws. As previously detailed, these screws were incorrect for attaching the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro optic to the mount itself, a critical functional omission. The mount itself is designed to be a direct replacement for the rear sight, meaning it doesn’t typically come with replacement rear sights.

Customization options are limited to the user’s willingness to modify the mount. This can include filing or milling to achieve a perfect fit, or potentially removing the rear pins to accommodate specific optics like the Holosun 407K/507K as mentioned in the product description. The mount’s footprint is designed for specific red dot sights, limiting its universality without modification.

Pros and Cons of Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed

Who Should Buy Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed?

This optic mount is best suited for experienced firearm owners and hobbyists who are comfortable with minor gunsmithing tasks, such as filing and fitting. If you possess the necessary tools and knowledge and are looking for an economical way to add a red dot sight to your Kimber 1911 with a fixed rear sight, this mount is a viable option. It is also a good choice if you prioritize keeping your firearm’s slide unmodified.

However, individuals new to firearms, those who expect a completely hassle-free installation, or anyone who lacks the tools and confidence for fitting should strongly consider alternatives. Opting for a professionally milled slide or a higher-tolerance aftermarket mount might be a better investment to avoid frustration. **A good set of fine files, a brass brush, and the correct *6/32* optic mounting screws are essential complementary items for anyone considering this mount.**

Conclusion on Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed

The Evolution Gun Works Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Sight Mount For Kimber Fixed is a product that promises functionality at an accessible price but demands a significant investment of the user’s time and skill. While the 7075 Aluminum construction and Matte Black Hard Coat Anodized finish are adequate, the manufacturing tolerances and the critical oversight of providing incorrect mounting hardware detract substantially from its value proposition. For those willing and able to perform the necessary fitting and sourcing of correct screws, it can serve as a stable platform for popular red dot sights like the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro.

However, for the average consumer seeking a simple upgrade, the required modifications can turn an intended easy swap into a frustrating endeavor. It is a mount that works, but not without considerable user intervention. If you are an experienced tinkerer who understands the intricacies of firearm fitting and can overlook manufacturing inconsistencies for a budget-friendly solution, this EGW mount is a consideration. Otherwise, exploring options that offer tighter tolerances and correct hardware out of the box, even at a higher price, would likely lead to a more satisfying and less labor-intensive experience.