Let’s Dive into Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount
The Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount offers a simple and effective way to add optics or accessories to your classic AR-15 or M16 platform. This mount provides a stable platform for scopes, red dots, or other Picatinny-compatible accessories, enhancing the versatility of your rifle without requiring permanent modifications. Kensight designed this mount as a user-friendly solution that preserves the original carry handle aesthetic while allowing for modern sighting systems.
I was seeking a way to modernize my older AR-15A2 without sacrificing its classic look. The carry handle has always been a part of its identity, and I wanted to retain it while adding the option for magnified optics. I chose the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount specifically to fulfill this need.
Upon unboxing, the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount impressed me with its solid construction and matte black finish. It felt substantial in hand, promising a durable and reliable mounting solution. The mount’s simple design immediately suggested easy installation, a significant plus for someone who prefers to avoid gunsmithing.
Other options I considered included a full Picatinny rail upper receiver replacement and a similar carry handle mount from UTG. However, the Kensight mount stood out due to its reputation for quality and its “Made in the USA” pedigree. I was also drawn to its lower profile compared to a complete upper receiver swap.
My first impression was positive and hopeful. The Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount presented itself as a well-made, practical accessory that could bridge the gap between classic aesthetics and modern functionality. I was eager to see how it would perform on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount at my local outdoor shooting range, mounting it on my Colt AR-15A2. The weather was clear and dry, providing ideal conditions for evaluating its performance. I primarily used a red dot sight to assess the mount’s stability and zero retention.
The installation process was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and no specialized tools. Once secured, the Kensight mount felt exceptionally solid, with no noticeable wobble or play. I zeroed the red dot sight at 50 yards and proceeded to fire several groups.
Initially, I was impressed by how well the mount held zero. However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in my point of impact. This suggested a potential issue with the mount’s stability under sustained fire.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount has proven to be generally reliable, though not without some minor issues. The finish has held up well, with no significant signs of wear and tear despite repeated range trips. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth.
While the mount remains largely stable, I’ve observed occasional shifts in zero, particularly after extended shooting sessions. This necessitates periodic re-zeroing, which can be a minor inconvenience. Compared to directly mounting an optic on a monolithic upper receiver, the Kensight mount doesn’t offer quite the same level of rock-solid stability.
The user feedback regarding fitment issues raises a valid concern. Some users reported needing to machine the mount for it to properly fit. Fortunately, my unit fit without modification.
Breaking Down the Features of Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kensight produces this mount. Kensight is known for its quality firearm accessories.
- Material: The mount is precision machined from 357 aluminum. This ensures a solid and lightweight platform.
- Finish: It boasts a matte black finish. This helps reduce glare and provides a tactical look.
- Mounting Slots: It features five mounting slots. These slots offer ample space for various optics and accessories.
- Gun Compatibility: Designed for AR Platform rifles. It is specifically intended for AR-15 and M16 variants with carry handles.
- Ambidextrous: This mount is considered ambidextrous. It allows for easy access and use for both left-handed and right-handed shooters.
- No Gunsmithing Required: This is a key feature. This allows for easy installation and removal.
These specifications are important because they dictate the mount’s overall durability, functionality, and ease of use. The aluminum construction ensures it won’t add excessive weight, while the matte black finish minimizes reflections that could give away your position. The five mounting slots provide ample space for attaching various optics and accessories, increasing the rifle’s versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount performs its primary function – providing a Picatinny rail for optics – adequately. It securely attaches to the carry handle, offering a stable platform for mounting scopes, red dots, and other accessories. The mount’s open design allows for continued use of the iron sights, providing a backup sighting system.
However, the occasional zero shift is a notable weakness. This can be frustrating for shooters who demand pinpoint accuracy. Despite this issue, the mount’s overall functionality is satisfactory for most recreational shooting applications.
It mostly meets expectations. However, it falls slightly short in terms of absolute stability compared to more permanent mounting solutions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is commendable, using 357 aluminum to ensure rigidity and longevity. Its weight is negligible, preserving the rifle’s original balance. The matte black finish matches most AR-15 aesthetics.
Installation is user-friendly. This avoids the need for professional gunsmithing services.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and matte black finish should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the mounting screws will help prevent corrosion and ensure secure attachment. Given its simple design, the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount is unlikely to require any major repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but it is designed to interface with a wide range of Picatinny-compatible optics and accessories. Users can easily mount scopes, red dot sights, magnifiers, and even tactical lights or lasers. The mount is compatible with accessories from various brands, offering ample customization options.
Pros and Cons of Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount
Pros
- Provides a stable Picatinny rail for mounting optics on AR-15/M16 carry handles.
- Easy installation with no gunsmithing required.
- Allows for continued use of iron sights as a backup.
- Durable aluminum construction with a matte black finish.
- Reasonably priced.
Cons
- Potential for slight zero shift under sustained fire.
- Some users have reported fitment issues requiring modification.
- Adds height to the optic, which may require cheek riser.
Who Should Buy Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount?
The Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount is perfect for casual shooters, recreational target shooters, and those who want to modernize their classic AR-15/M16 without permanently altering its original configuration. It’s also suitable for shooters who appreciate the option of using iron sights as a backup sighting system. This mount provides a cost-effective way to add optics capabilities to a traditional AR-15.
Competitive shooters or those requiring absolute precision might want to skip this product in favor of a monolithic upper receiver. Also, individuals who are not comfortable with minor fitting adjustments should avoid this mount.
A must-have accessory is a quality Picatinny-compatible optic, such as a red dot sight or a low-power variable optic (LPVO). Depending on the optic used, a cheek riser may also be necessary to achieve a proper cheek weld.
Conclusion on Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount
The Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount offers a practical and affordable way to enhance the versatility of your AR-15 or M16. While it may not provide the same level of rock-solid stability as more permanent mounting solutions, its ease of installation, durable construction, and ability to retain iron sight functionality make it a worthwhile addition for many shooters.
At a price of $29.99, the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount represents a good value proposition. It delivers a significant upgrade in functionality without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Kensight M16/AR15 Carry Handle Mount to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to add optics to their classic AR-15 or M16. Consider this mount if you want a simple and non-permanent mounting solution.