Thread: Smith Enterprise Experience

I was recently forced to order a replacement bolt for my M1a scope mount and I felt the need to blow off some steam.

I've had the mount for less than a year and all of 30 rounds downrange with it. I took it off my rifle last week to fit it for new scope rings and scope. I guess I should have never taken it off. The problem arose when I went to put it back on. The bolt sheared off at 50 inch-lbs of torque (the manufacturer do not exceed is 65 inch-lbs).

When I contact Smith via email and Ron keep offering a new heat treated stainless steel bolt. Twice I stated that the regular factory replacement would be fine and each time I was asked " so you'd like to order the stainless steel bolt?". I gave up on email and decided to call. I spoke with Porshe who after explaining my bolt sheared, offered me... Guess what? An upgraded stainless steel bolt capable of withstanding more torque. No thanks. I'll just take the regular bolt.

It was $15. I should have asked about shipping because the bolt arrived later that week with an invoice for $30. I figured rather than be passive aggressive about it, I'd at least call and express my disappointment in their shipping prices. I called at 1:40pm pacific time today and told the woman answering the phone that I just wanted to express my dissatisfaction with the price of their shipping. I was not being rude in any way. Instead of finding an understanding, sympathetic ear, she tells me "That's what we charge. That's what everybody charges these days. It's on the the website somewhere. Welcome to the new world."

Ok, not what I was expecting.

Bennyhonda,
If you look through threads on other firearm's forums, you will find a consensus that you get a good product, but a lot of attitude with it.

Good Luck.

You could send it back, after finding a replacement somewhere for less, and get your money back. You then would only be out $15for shipping, I would hope, or even contest the credit card charges..putting the item in dispute.

I understand the frustration with the bolt problem, but even more frustrating are the shipping costs.
It might be worth your time to send a letter explaining your frustration, including and naming the people whom you communicated with and asking for an understanding, refund, or partial rebate of your costs..
I believe that sometimes a letter is better than the email or verbal confrontation and that when addressed, they see your point a little brighter and have to act to answer the letter contact..
Include int the letter that you are awaiting there Positive response, leading them the way you would like, and at the bottom sometimes a cc: to your mouthpiece ( if you have one) or to K2News-on-your-side, or something similiar to help bring a positive response.

It has before for me.. Thanks,. that's jsut my .02c/worth/sr

Aw, that's took bad. I have a Smith mount on my M1A and for years they've been THE mount. However, I just bought mine and have never taken it off. Now I'm afraid to ;-)

BTW, the current issue of Shooting Times has a cover article entitled "SCOPE YOUR M1A!"

They review six mounts. Smith's, Fulton Armory's, and Sadlak Airborne seem to be the top of the crop (all three are used by various military units). The other three reviewed are Sadlak Aluminum, ARMS 18, and Trijicon's TA70.