The handles are solid metal and seem very reliable for use with heavier rigs. However, as another user noted, the base mount is attached to the rail mount with 4 tiny screws. These screws are the weakest link in the design. You can tighten the 5/8" thumbscrew as much as you like, but the female part will still move a little. Sometimes I have to remove the handle and tighten those screws to get good contact, but it doesn't last long. I've considered using Loctite or something similar toβ¦