Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

[mdmp5]

Hey guys,

If you read my review in my last post, I am very psyched about my new Atlas bipod. As you know, the LW17 version of the Atlas comes with the A.R.M.S. #17S throw lever mount. While this version may be more attractive than the regular one with the screw on clamp, in my opinion I don't think it is the optimal mount. I got the NC version; the one without the clamp, and I am gonna attach it with the LaRue LT-171 mount.

I wouldn't be turding on A.R.M.S. had I not personally experienced some dismay with their stuff. Overall, I am quite disappointed with their products. Some of my mounts outright broke (bent clamps, stripped threads, etc.), while some, although intact, either don't seem to fit right and are simply unable to hold a zero. The craftsmanship of the mounts is lacking too; in my opinion, their mounts look like cast cement. In fact, I read some testimonies of dudes deployed, and some of them said that A.R.M.S. mounts were outright snapping in pieces just like cement after simply dropping their weapon on the ground. I am just a civilian shooting enthusiast, but it is a frightening thought that dudes overseas are relying on these mounts to house their optics and bipods.

I talked to Tyler over at LaRue and suggested that they offer their mount with the Atlas. Hands down, I would choose the LaRue version. Although this is just my own preference, I don't think I am alone on this one. I truly believe that guys would opt for the LT-171 as opposed to the #17S, and their version would outsell the current LW17 by a large margin.

My question for you guys is, if LaRue offered the bipod with their LT-171 in a package deal, would you opt for the the LaRue version over the A.R.M.S. version?

If you are in agreement with me, and would buy the LaRue version, shoot an email or phone call over to LaRue and suggest it to them. They are very receptive, and take all suggestions seriously. It would be a real convenience to be able to buy the Atlas in a package deal, rather than buying the NC version and the mount separately. You guys agree or no?

-mike

 

[J-Hon]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

I imagine you might check with Kasey on that......

It's not like LaRue is a secret, so I'd say he has his reasons for choosing ARMS (though I personally am not the biggest ARMS fan either, mine hasn't broken yet).

 

[858]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

The Larue equivelent of the ARMS 17 mount does not interfave with the bipod the same way. Unless Larue designs a compatible part I don't see a way to make them work.

I'd buy the larue 17 style mount if it didn't require Harris linkage.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

I spoke to another party about that about a week ago or so, and yes, it sounds like there was a reason for Kasey to choose the arms, although the onus might have not been solely on him. Just speculating, but maybe LaRue was originally asked a while back if they wanted a piece of the action but passed for some reason. However, I think times have changed and the Atlas became a hit. It is possible that LaRue might reconsider if enough interest was shown. Also, they don't necessarily have to provide the mounts for B&T to sell. They can sell the bipod on their own site, as they do with 3rd party products such as Harris, Surefire and Nightforce to name a few. No harm in inquiring and making a suggestion; I don't think anybody has anything to lose.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 858</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The Larue equivelent of the ARMS 17 mount does not interfave with the bipod the same way. Unless Larue designs a compatible part I don't see a way to make them work.

I'd buy the larue 17 style mount if it didn't require Harris linkage.

</div></div>

I believe you are referring to the LT-130, which does indeed require Harris linkage as you said. The LT-171 is the LaRue equivalent of the A.R.M.S. #17S:

<span style="font-size: 8pt"><span style="font-style: italic">"The LT-171 provides an adjustable speed lever, that is infinitely adjustable to any MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail (adjustability not provided by the A.R.M.S. #17®S product).

Comes complete with Mounting hardware, QD adjustment wrench, vial of blue Locktite and Instructions.

Compare our Lever Mount Upgrade to the A.R.M.S. #17®S product -- there's no comparison"</span> -excerpt from LaRue's site</span>

I think there is a bit of confusion about the #17S mount in general. I originally overlooked the 'S' part of #17S and mistook it for a plain #17, which is too long for the Atlas. However, if you read the description of the mounts on LaRue's site, it explicitly says that the LT-170 replaces the #17, and the LT-171 replaces the #17S.

Check out the pics and description in the following link:

http://stores.homestead.com/Laruetactical/Detail.bok?no=44

http://stores.homestead.com/Laruetactical/catalog/P5086919.JPG

 

[Lowlight]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Pretty nice of you guys to redesign this for Kasey, although I don't think you'll get too far.

if memory serves me, Larue was a dead end and I'm sure it's a no-go at this point.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Pretty nice of you guys to redesign this for Kasey, although I don't think you'll get too far.

if memory serves me, Larue was a dead end and I'm sure it's a no-go at this point. </div></div>

Yes, you may indeed be right about that. But since I was gonna get their mount anyway, I thought it was worth a mention. Change is the product of necessity, and I need their mount, so I figured they might be more receptive this time around hearing it from the marketplace. I have been wrong before, and maybe I am once again, but I'll only know if I ask.

 

[427Cobra]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

I guess its just me, but I have no need for a throw lever for my bipod, and I for one hate playing musical chairs with equipment, I like my Harris, but love my Atlas bipod, and if I had 20 sticks, I would have 20 Atlas bipods.

 

[858]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 427Cobra</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I guess its just me, but I have no need for a throw lever for my bipod, and I for one hate playing musical chairs with equipment, I like my Harris, but love my Atlas bipod, and if I had 20 sticks, I would have 20 Atlas bipods. </div></div>

I don't use bipods every time on a rifle and I don't want to use tools to put on and take off the bipod. I also don't leave my bipods on my rifles when in transit or storage.

 

[858]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Pretty nice of you guys to redesign this for Kasey, although I don't think you'll get too far.

if memory serves me, Larue was a dead end and I'm sure it's a no-go at this point. </div></div>


I agree, it is pretty nice. I won't buy anything from ARMS and I imagine there are a few other users out there who feel the same.

 

[M4guru]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

I just bought the NC model and ordered a LT-171 from Larue.

Larue has too much business to take on new dealers. It's been that way for a while, it's not a reflection on Atlas or anything. They're not the only premier product that has had to be turned away due to LT already operating at a high production capacity.

 

[jpmuscle]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

is the standard clamp that comes on the Atlas removable thus allowing an upgrade to the Arms or Larue lt171 mount at a later date or do you have to order the bipod without any mount?

 

[M4guru]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

No, you either get the clamp or the base slotted for the LT171/ARMS 17S. You cannot go back and forth, it's a completely different base.

 

[Kasey]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

who is this LaRue Tactical you speak of?

Guys, trust me I have asked a ton of folks about their personal experience with ARMS and very few had actual problems with the simple lever mount. All this about return to zero etc. did not pertain to the application in question. There is a ton of; "I have a buddy that knows a guy that heard on the internet blah, blah, blah going on". I also heard plenty of stories of personal experiences that turned them off ARMS and others against LaRue Tactical thus we get American Defense products that has certainly caught the operators eye to the point of specifying we deliver them equipped that way.

Just to be clear, I initially wanted to carry both ARMS and LaRue Tactical and could have, I have the quotes from both, in an effort to cater to my customers. However, business considerations left me with one option that I do not regret. Knowing there would be people that wanted the LT we made available the BT10-NC which accepts the LT171. I know this is not the most convenient and for that I apologize.

Last, I have no idea what ARMS warranty is on their 17S but here is what I'm willing to do, you buy a BT10-LW17 from me and break the ARMS mount, I'll replace it.

 

[M4guru]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Warranties:

"A.R.M.S.®, Inc. has an unconditional warranty on all workmanship of its products for a period of one year. This warranty does not apply to defects caused by anything that is deemed abnormal, abusive, or improper."

"Hey! a truck ran over my Aimpoint in your mount ! "
In a case such as this, your LT mount will be replaced at no-charge, but you will need to contact your insurance agent in regards to the Aimpoint."

"American Defense MFG, LLC products feature a Lifetime Warranty. If you break it under normal operating conditions we will replace it. PERIOD!"

I used Larue, but ADM is offering a pretty good product as well. I wish them the best of luck. Whoever is buying them shouldn't be disappointed. Is ADM an option you offer from the factory now as well?

I love my Atlas.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Kasey, so that we are clear, it was not my intention to question your decision to choose arms. As I stated above, I am sure there were good reasons behind doing so, and I respect that. You brought a great product forward, and we all very much appreciate that.

Just so that we all understand, I would NEVER rip on a company's product from mere here-say. As I stated, I had some major issues with my arms products in the past, and it was more than coincidence that other people were complaining about them too. I understand that a bad batch of items shouldn't be used to judge the quality of the product as a whole. It is understandable to have a few break here and there. However, when it happens to the same person multiple times, the probability of it being a bad batch drops dramatically.

I would feel much more comfy knowing that arms offered an unconditional lifetime warranty. In my opinion, a 1 year limited warranty on an inanimate piece of metal is unacceptable, especially when competitors have no qualms with a no questions asked policy. The arms warranty sounds like the same raw deal that apple offers for their electronics. That being said, I think Kasey's offer to take the onus of replacing a broken mount is very remarkable.

 

[dc45]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Kasey</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Last, I have no idea what ARMS warranty is on their 17S but here is what I'm willing to do, you buy a BT10-LW17 from me and break the ARMS mount, I'll replace it. </div></div>

Kasey,
My BT10-LW17 mount has performed as advertised. I have Glen Seekins 'sling rails' on three rifles, and I just switch the bipod to whichever one I am shooting. It takes all of ten seconds or so. Of course I haven't run over it with a truck or dropped it off a cliff either. Regardless, thanks for standing behind the stuff you sell.

Cheers,

DC

 

[Kasey]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

M4guru, Thanks. That warranty is disappointing, I do not understand that approach to business in this industry. Funny, we are a demanding lot aren't we, we want to get the lowest price and the best support available after the purchase! I just got a range finder (Leica CRF 1200), 2 year warranty. Guess it's the electronics that they are concerned about? Guess my next project will take a battery.... At this time we'll only supply the ADM to fulfill any contractual obligations. Glad you are lovin' your Atlas!

palmik, no harm no foul! I took it as you sharing a thought and I do not question your life experiences with ARMS. And I agree with your observation regarding manufacturers warranty.

DC Smith, thank you for your support and business and just think how much faster it would be if you had the same style bipod on all three rifles!!! LOL Seriously, the lever mount is an ingenious concept which is another reason I'm glad to carry the original. And that philosophy is the same reason I approached Mr. Harris about the Atlas before I started down that path of bringing it to the market.

Again, thanks to one and all for your ideas and support!

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Kasey</div><div class="ubbcode-body">M4guru, Thanks. That warranty is disappointing, I do not understand that approach to business in this industry. Funny, we are a demanding lot aren't we, we want to get the lowest price and the best support available after the purchase! I just got a range finder (Leica CRF 1200), 2 year warranty. Guess it's the electronics that they are concerned about? Guess my next project will take a battery.... At this time we'll only supply the ADM to fulfill any contractual obligations. Glad you are lovin' your Atlas!

palmik, no harm no foul! I took it as you sharing a thought and I do not question your life experiences with ARMS. And I agree with your observation regarding manufacturers warranty.

DC Smith, thank you for your support and business and just think how much faster it would be if you had the same style bipod on all three rifles!!! LOL Seriously, the lever mount is an ingenious concept which is another reason I'm glad to carry the original. And that philosophy is the same reason I approached Mr. Harris about the Atlas before I started down that path of bringing it to the market.

Again, thanks to one and all for your ideas and support! </div></div>

Spoken like a true gentleman. Thanks for the reply Kasey.

One thing though...do you mean to say that you will offer the Atlas with an American Defense mount? Reason I ask is that I wasn't aware that they made a shorter version of their AD-170.

 

[Kasey]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

rgr that, that was what I ran into pre-production with ADM, they were willing at the time to do it but I passed. However they might be inspired to do 17S size mount in the future. That's really all I can say.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Sounds awesome Kasey. I am looking forward to it. I never got anything from ADM before, but their stuff looks kinda cool. I am also a HUGE fan of the unlimited lifetime warranty. IMO, any company that offers this kind of service is the real deal, and most definitely makes a great product.

 

[chainring]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Larue goofed when they missed out on the Atlas - but I appreciate Kasey making the NC model available. It's perfect for us Laruemenati!

I love mine.

 

[deadly0311]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

guys if you are hesistating one bit about dropping the money on the Atlas, ill share a personal story of an experience i had with Kasey and B&T, i broke my atlas. It was completely my fault and under my personal abuse (testing the strength of the Atlas) well needless to say i broke it. Sent Kasey an email told him what happened. He said send it in to me and ill replace the mount with a "blemished" unit. Turn around time was 5-6 days max, and this was over the weekend to. I get the Atlas back, and Kasey i dont know what your definition of blemished is, but damn the mount i got back had one little 1/10 of an inch of coating missing in a very inconspicuous spot. Kasey never asked for any money or anything, Kasey has been a very upstanding business owner here. Anyone remember him giving a guy a Atlas?????? Under one stipulation, if he ever got rid of it he would give it to a service member. Sorry for the long winded post, but i guess Accu-Shot and B&T have made a lifetime supporter of their company. Keep up the good work Kasey and thankyou again.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Awesome story. I don't know you Kasey, but you are the king. Why don't all dudes conduct business in this fashion? Blows my mind. Seriously, why is it so hard to make a good product and then stand behind it? Over the years, unless it was unavoidable, I have directed business towards companies that backed their products, in any industry. I hate when companies "hook" you with their shit like a racketeering scandal; they offer solutions to problems they created, for a price. Arms mount broken??? Fuck you pay me!!!

Off the topic of guns, but this is exactly how Apple operates. I have a Macbook Pro, and I had no choice but to buy the 3 year extended LIMITED warranty. The laptop is awesome, but God forbid I drop it from a height or into the toilet, I will be lit outta shuck. In contrast, I snapped the frame on my Amazon Kindle today and called up Amazon. To my pleasant surprise, they are sending me a replacement Kindle in the mail asap. How awesome is that? Puts a big ass shit eatin grin on my face from ear to ear. 1+ for Amazon.

 

[mdmp5]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Just got the LaRue LT-171 mount in the mail. Most notably, being that the mount is adjustable, it fits much better on the rail without having to force it open or shut. Unlike ARMS mounts you don't end up destroying your hands in trying to attach or remove the mount (as I have done plenty of times).

As a word of advice, if you are having trouble removing an ARMS mount with a stuck lever, don't keep trying to force it with your hands, and do not use something solid to pry the lever open; you may end up accidentally breaking something or hurting yourself. Instead, take a cloth or even the sleeve of your shirt, slip it behind the lever and pull; works like a charm.

Here are some pics of the Atlas with the LT-171 attached:

 

[cox308]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)

Sorry to dig up a really old thread but got a Quick question. I can't seem to find the LT171 anywhere including La Rue website. Is the LT271 the new model? Will it work on the Atlas? Is there any other throw lever options besides the ARMS?

http://www.laruetactical.com/larue-tactical-upgrade-lt-271

 

[Kasey]

Re: Atlas Bipod throw lever mount (BT10-LW17)


I'd suggest asking Larue about compatability

We now offer the ADM 170 S, ADM did not make this size when the Atlas was introduced.