AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails Review

Let’s Dive into AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails

The AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails is an affordable solution for mounting optics and accessories to your AK platform rifle. Manufactured by AIM Sports, this mount offers both a top and side Picatinny rail, expanding the functionality of your AK. For AK owners looking to modernize their rifle without breaking the bank, this mount presents an interesting option.

I’ve always been a firm believer in versatility when it comes to firearms. I needed a way to securely mount a red dot optic and a weapon light to my AK without permanently altering the rifle. The AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails seemed like a simple and cost-effective solution, so I decided to give it a try.

Upon unboxing, the mount felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The black anodized aluminum construction appeared durable, and the Picatinny rails looked properly machined. The weight, at 8.5 oz, was noticeable but didn’t seem excessive at first glance.

I considered other options like the Midwest Industries AK Railed Gas Tube and the RS Regulate AK-300 Modular Side Rail System. I chose the AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails because of its appealing price and simple installation, hoping it would provide adequate functionality without the hefty price tag of other, more premium options. The others were considerably more expensive than the AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The mount seemed like a decent value for the price, though I was slightly concerned about its bulk and potential impact on the rifle’s balance. I was eager to get it installed and see how it performed in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails at my local shooting range, mounting it on my PSAK-47 GF3. I attached a red dot sight to the top rail and a weapon light to the side rail. The range conditions were typical for a summer afternoon – sunny and dry.

The mount seemed to hold zero reasonably well during my initial testing. I fired about 200 rounds, and the red dot remained relatively stable. However, I did notice that the added weight of the mount and accessories made the rifle feel slightly less balanced, especially during rapid firing.

Installation was straightforward, but the fit wasn’t perfect. There was a slight wobble, even after tightening the set screws. I was expecting a completely solid lockup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails has shown some wear and tear. The finish has started to wear off in a few spots, revealing the bare aluminum underneath. The mount still functions, but the wobble has become more pronounced over time.

Cleaning the mount is easy; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session. Maintenance is minimal, but I occasionally tighten the set screws to try and reduce the wobble.

Compared to other side rail mounts I’ve used, this one is definitely on the lower end in terms of durability and stability. It’s not as robust as more expensive options, but it gets the job done for basic use. It outperforms similarly priced alternatives, but falls short compared to premium brands.

Breaking Down the Features of AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails

Specifications

• Length: 5.5 inches. This provides adequate rail space for mounting various accessories.
• Weight: 8.5 oz. This adds noticeable weight to the rifle, affecting balance.
• Material: Black anodized aircraft grade aluminum. This offers decent durability for the price.
• Compatibility: Compatible with most AK variants with a side plate already installed. This ensures broad compatibility within the AK platform.
• Rails: Accepts all standard Weaver / Picatinny 1913 accessories. This provides universal mounting options for optics and accessories.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the mount’s performance and usability. The weight impacts handling, while the material determines durability, and the rail compatibility dictates which accessories can be used. A solid mount can make or break an AK build.

Performance & Functionality

The AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails performs adequately for its intended purpose: providing mounting surfaces for optics and accessories. It holds zero reasonably well for basic range use, but the inherent wobble can affect precision at longer distances. The wobble is a potential detriment.

The main strength is its affordability, making it accessible to budget-conscious AK owners. The primary weakness is its stability, which can be problematic for serious shooters.

It meets expectations for a budget-friendly option. It won’t outperform premium mounts, but it provides a functional solution for adding rails to an AK.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The aluminum construction feels solid, but the finish isn’t very durable. The weight can make the rifle feel unbalanced.

The mount is relatively user-friendly, with a simple installation process. Some users may need to adjust the set screws to achieve a secure fit.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and occasional maintenance, the AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails should last for a reasonable amount of time. The finish may wear off over time, but the mount should remain functional.

Maintaining the mount is straightforward. Regular cleaning and tightening of the set screws are usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails doesn’t come with any accessories. It is designed to be compatible with any standard Weaver / Picatinny 1913 accessories, including optics, lights, lasers, and foregrips.

The mount is compatible with a wide range of accessories from different brands. Users can customize their AK to suit their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails

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Who Should Buy AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails?

This mount is perfect for casual AK owners and recreational shooters who want to add optics and accessories without spending a lot of money. It’s also suitable for those who are new to the AK platform and want to experiment with different configurations.

Serious shooters, competitive shooters, and those who demand maximum reliability and stability should skip this product. The wobble and potential for zero shift may be unacceptable for these users.

A must-have modification would be applying thread locker to the set screws to help prevent them from loosening over time. Also, consider using a lightweight optic to minimize the added weight.

Conclusion on AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails

The AIM Sports AK Double Side Rail Mount w/ Picatinny Rails is a budget-friendly option for adding rails to your AK. It provides a functional solution for mounting optics and accessories, but it’s not without its drawbacks. While the mount is affordable and easy to install, the wobble and lack of durability are legitimate concerns.

At a price of $17.23, the value proposition is decent. The mount provides a basic level of functionality at a very low cost.

I would cautiously recommend this product to casual AK owners who are on a tight budget and understand its limitations. However, I would advise serious shooters to invest in a higher-quality mount for improved stability and reliability. Don’t expect a premium experience, but if you just need to mount a light and a cheap red dot, you should be fine.