I have used the Direct Mount Grip for a number of years and it has served me well. It is good quality and gets the job done. Went this route because I wanted something that could grip a broad range of platforms. I have used it to hold a spotting scope, rifle scope, NV and rifles from 22LR up to a 7mmUM. Is a rail system better yes, but if you are looking for a generalist platform to hold a broad spectrum of devices I think it is hard to beat. I had to buy an thread adapter to mount to my tripod, part was under a buck on Amazon. I think he should include one with mount and suggested he should do so in the future. My opinion is worth what you paid for it but I use mine multiple times each month and have no plans to make any changes.