No, the M89/L89 Drivelock is not an S Lock.

Published on July 20, 2023
Duration: 2:27

This video clarifies the distinction between the Sons of Liberty Gun Works M89 Drivelock rail system and the Hodge S-Lock rail system. The presenter emphasizes that these systems are not interchangeable, despite a common online misunderstanding. The M89 Drivelock utilizes independent wedges that create two force vectors, pushing the rail back and up into the upper receiver for a secure lock-up, a fundamentally different mechanism than the S-Lock.

Quick Summary

The Sons of Liberty Gun Works M89 Drivelock rail system is fundamentally different from the Hodge S-Lock rail system and they are not compatible. The M89 Drivelock uses independent wedges that create upward and rearward force vectors to drive the rail securely into the upper receiver, a distinct mechanism from the S-Lock.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M89 Drivelock vs S-Lock
  2. 00:08Common Misunderstanding: Rebranding Myth
  3. 00:18Incompatibility: Barrel Nut Issues
  4. 00:27Not a Comparison: Focus on Compatibility
  5. 00:41How the M89 Drivelock Works: Wedges and Force Vectors
  6. 01:01The 'Drive Lock' Mechanism Explained
  7. 01:18Not a Subtle Difference: Separate Systems
  8. 01:18Source of Confusion: Extrusion vs. Lock-up
  9. 01:42Extrusion Explained: Raw Metal
  10. 02:02Barrel Nut and Lock-up Differences
  11. 02:05Final Warning: Don't Get Confused

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Sons of Liberty Gun Works M89 Drivelock rails the same as Hodge S-Lock rails?

No, the M89 Drivelock rail system from Sons of Liberty Gun Works is not the same as the Hodge S-Lock rail system. While they may share an extrusion, their barrel nut and internal locking mechanisms are fundamentally different and not interchangeable.

Why are M89 Drivelock barrel nuts incompatible with S-Lock rails?

The incompatibility stems from the distinct locking mechanisms. The M89 Drivelock uses independent wedges to create upward and rearward force vectors for a secure lock-up, whereas the S-Lock system operates on a different principle. Using the wrong barrel nut will not work.

How does the M89 Drivelock system secure a handguard?

The M89 Drivelock system features independent wedges within its barrel nut assembly. When tightened, these wedges generate two force vectors: one pushing the rail up and another driving it back into the upper receiver, creating a robust and self-leveling lock.

What is the 'drive lock' feature of the M89 rail system?

The 'drive lock' aspect refers to the system's ability to actively drive the rail rearward into the upper receiver. This multi-axis force vector system ensures a secure and stable mounting of the handguard, going beyond simple static holding.

More from Sons of Liberty Gun Works

View all →