Let’s Dive into Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount, a seemingly simple piece of kit, is designed to securely attach your optic to your firearm. Pride Fowler Industries, a name often associated with tactical precision and reliability, brings this compact base mount to the AR-15 platform, specifically designed to fit atop the carry handle. I was intrigued by its promise of a rock-solid optic platform without requiring significant modifications to the host weapon.
For years, I’ve wrestled with finding the perfect optic mounting solution for my older AR-15 rifles, many of which still sport the classic carry handle. The issue wasn’t finding any mount, but finding one that didn’t feel like an afterthought, one that held zero reliably and kept the optic low enough to maintain a reasonable cheek weld. Unboxing the Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount, I immediately noticed the robust feel of the 6061 T-6 aluminum.
Compared to some of the cheaper, stamped-steel carry handle mounts I’ve encountered, this felt like a significant step up. Other options, like replacing the entire upper receiver with a flattop, were far more expensive and involved. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a simple, yet effective, solution to a long-standing issue.
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount immediately stood out from competitors due to military-approved quality and CNC machined build. Cheaper options often exhibit loose tolerances and questionable materials. Initially, I was both excited and cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount at my local shooting range. This allowed me to observe the accuracy and general fit of the mount with my rifle. The weather was mild and sunny, perfect conditions for dialing in an optic.
The mount proved remarkably easy to install, sliding onto the carry handle and securing with minimal effort. There was no need for specialized tools or gunsmithing skills, which was a huge plus. After the first few shots, I was relieved to find that the mount held zero consistently.
My initial concern was that the optic might sit too high, affecting my cheek weld. This wasn’t the case, with the red dot sitting at a comfortable height allowing a natural and stable shooting position. However, I did notice a slight shift in the point of impact after about 50 rounds, prompting me to re-tighten the mount.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a couple of informal backcountry excursions, the Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount has proven to be a fairly reliable piece of equipment. It certainly surpasses other carry-handle mounts I’ve used in the past. While it is reliable, it requires more periodic checks on tightness.
There is some visible wear on the anodized finish, particularly around the edges that contact the carry handle. However, there are no signs of functional degradation; it still locks up tight and holds zero adequately. Maintaining the mount is straightforward, a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use seems to be sufficient.
Comparing it to my previous experiences with carry-handle mounts, the Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount offers a significant improvement in stability. While a flattop receiver remains the gold standard, this mount offers a reasonable alternative for those wanting to preserve the classic look of their AR-15.
Breaking Down the Features of Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount
Specifications
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount is constructed from 6061 T-6 aluminum, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. This makes the mount both durable and relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the rifle. The mount boasts a rugged black anodized finish, which provides some degree of corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
Its dimensions are approximately 3 inches in height, 2 inches in width, and 2 inches in length, with a weight of approximately 0.25 lbs. These dimensions mean it fits neatly within the confines of the carry handle without protruding excessively. The key feature is its compatibility with AR-15 carry handles, offering a simple and secure mounting solution.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the mount’s performance and user experience. The aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use and recoil. The black anodized finish helps to prevent glare and protect against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount does a commendable job of providing a stable platform for mounting optics on AR-15 rifles with carry handles. Accuracy is maintained reasonably well, provided the mount is properly tightened and checked periodically. Reliability is generally good, with no major failures observed during testing.
The mount’s strength lies in its simplicity and ease of installation. The primary weakness is the inherent limitation of mounting an optic on a carry handle, which can sometimes feel less stable than a dedicated flattop receiver. It meets expectations for a carry-handle mount but doesn’t exceed them in terms of ultimate stability and low profile.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with clean machining and a consistent anodized finish. The weight is negligible, adding minimal burden to the rifle. The black anodized finish assists in minimizing glare for the shooter.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation or removal. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount should last for many years under normal use. The aluminum construction is resistant to cracking and deformation, while the anodized finish provides adequate protection against corrosion. Maintaining the mount is easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount doesn’t come with any accessories, focusing solely on providing a basic mounting platform. It is compatible with a wide range of red dot sights and other small optics that utilize a Picatinny rail interface. While not offering direct customization, its universal rail allows users to adapt it to their specific optic preferences.
Pros and Cons of Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount
Pros
- Provides a stable and reliable mounting platform for optics on AR-15 carry handles.
- Constructed from durable 6061 T-6 aluminum for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Offers a budget-friendly alternative to replacing the entire upper receiver.
- Maintains a relatively low profile compared to some other carry-handle mounts.
Cons
- Optic stability may not be as high as with a dedicated flattop receiver.
- Requires periodic tightening to ensure consistent zero.
- Anodized finish can show signs of wear with regular use.
Who Should Buy Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount?
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount is perfect for AR-15 owners who want to mount an optic without permanently modifying their rifle. It particularly appeals to those who appreciate the classic look of the carry handle and want a simple, effective mounting solution. This mount is suitable for casual range shooters, recreational shooters, and those who need a reliable optic platform for home defense.
Those who demand absolute stability and the lowest possible optic profile should consider replacing their upper receiver with a flattop model. Those using high-powered, long-range optics will likely find a flattop upper to be a better platform.
A must-have is a high-quality, compatible red dot sight or small optic. Periodically checking the mount for tightness is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount
The Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount is a solid and dependable option for mounting optics on AR-15 rifles with carry handles. While it may not offer the ultimate stability of a flattop receiver, it provides a significant improvement over other carry-handle mounts, especially considering the low cost of $48.34. It’s a simple, effective solution for those who want to retain the classic look of their AR-15.
The price is justified given the quality of construction and ease of use. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable optic mounting solution for their carry-handle AR-15. Upgrade your shooting experience without breaking the bank – give the Pride Fowler Industries Base Mount a try!