A method is for connecting an outrigger to a clamp in an external fixation system. A moveable member and a slide lock are couplied to an elongated member of the outrigger. The elongated member has a length, a distal end, a proximal end and a threaded portion on the distal end. The threaded portion has a keyed portion. The moveable member is moveable along the elongated member. The slide lock has a keyed portion and an engagement surface. The distal end of the elongated member is coupled to an opening of the clamp such that the engagement surface of the slide lock engages a portion of the clamp. The keyed portion of the threaded portion and the keyed portion of the slide lock are operably associated with each other to permit longitudinal movement of the slide lock along the length of the elongated member while preventing rotation. The engagement surface of the slide lock has a non-smooth texture and faces in a direction that is away from the moveable member.