BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount Review

Let’s Dive into BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount

The BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount promises a simple solution to a common problem: adapting older firearms with dovetail rails to accept modern Weaver or Picatinny-style optics. For years, I’ve tinkered with vintage rifles and rimfires, often frustrated by the limitations of outdated mounting systems. Finding a reliable way to mount a modern scope on these classics without permanent modification is a continuous quest.

My primary motivation for trying this adaptor was to breathe new life into my grandfather’s old .22 rifle. It has a narrow dovetail rail, and I wanted to mount a compact, modern scope for improved accuracy. Tired of struggling with ill-fitting rings, I decided to give the BKL Technologies adaptor a shot, hoping for a secure and stable platform.

Unboxing the adaptor, my first impression was positive. The matte black finish looked clean and professional, and the weight felt substantial enough to inspire confidence. The machining appeared precise, with no visible burrs or imperfections.

I’ve previously used similar adaptors from UTG and a generic brand found on Amazon. The BKL Technologies model felt significantly more solid than the UTG, and the overall finish was far superior to the generic Amazon offering. I chose it specifically because of BKL Technologies’ reputation for quality and precision, hoping it would provide a more secure and reliable mount than my previous experiences.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The adaptor looked well-made, but the true test would be how well it held zero under recoil. Time would tell if the BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount could live up to its promise.

Real-World Testing: Putting BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount at my local shooting range, mounted on my grandfather’s .22 rifle. I attached a Vortex Crossfire II scope to the Weaver rail on the adaptor. The range offered a controlled environment to assess accuracy and stability.

During the first range session, I fired approximately 200 rounds. Conditions were dry and mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The adaptor initially felt secure, but after about 50 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in my point of impact.

The initial setup was simple, but achieving a rock-solid mount required significantly more torque on the set screws than I initially anticipated. I was initially concerned about over-tightening and potentially damaging the dovetail, but eventually found the sweet spot. The biggest surprise was the amount of force needed to prevent movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and approximately 500 rounds fired, the BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount has held up reasonably well, but not perfectly. I found that the set screws required re-tightening after every 100-150 rounds, which is less than ideal. Minor adjustments to the scope were also required at these intervals.

Visually, there are no significant signs of wear and tear beyond minor marks where the set screws contact the dovetail. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient.

Compared to my previous experience with the UTG adaptor, the BKL Technologies product is a definite improvement in terms of overall build quality and resistance to initial shifting. However, the need for periodic re-tightening is a notable disappointment, as my previous experiences with high-quality integrated rails never required such frequent maintenance. This suggests that the BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount ultimately underperforms compared to a rifle with an integrated Weaver rail.

Breaking Down the Features of BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount

Specifications

• The BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount is designed to convert a 3/8 inch or 11mm dovetail rail to a Weaver/Picatinny-style rail. This allows users to mount a wider variety of optics on firearms that originally only supported dovetail mounts.

• The adaptor boasts a matte black finish. This provides a non-reflective surface and blends well with most firearms.

• The construction utilizes BKL Technologies’ Series 500 design. This ensures a precise and secure fit.

• The condition is new. This ensures the product arrives in optimal condition for immediate use.

• Designed to fit dovetail gun rails. This caters to a broad range of rimfire rifles and older firearms.

• It’s considered a standard ring height. This allows for the use of common scope rings.

These specifications are crucial because they determine the adaptor’s compatibility, durability, and overall performance. The dovetail fit is vital for secure attachment, while the Weaver/Picatinny rail allows for modern optic mounting. The matte finish minimizes glare, improving the shooter’s sight picture.

Performance & Functionality

The BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount effectively bridges the gap between older dovetail systems and modern Weaver/Picatinny optics. It allows users to mount scopes, red dots, and other accessories on firearms that would otherwise be limited.

The main weakness is the need for frequent tightening of the set screws. It’s not a “set it and forget it” solution. The adaptor’s strength is providing a viable option for mounting modern optics on older rifles without permanent modification.

While it meets the basic expectation of adapting a dovetail to a Weaver rail, it doesn’t exceed expectations due to the need for recurring adjustments. The shifting POI observed during testing highlights this shortcoming.

Design & Ergonomics

The adaptor’s build quality is generally good, with a solid feel and clean finish. The weight is manageable and doesn’t significantly alter the firearm’s balance.

The design is user-friendly in terms of initial installation. Achieving a truly secure and stable mount requires careful attention to torque and periodic re-tightening.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount should last for many years. The aluminum construction is resistant to corrosion.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and re-tightening of the screws. Damaged screws, however, may require specialized tools for replacement.

Accessories and Customization Options

The adaptor itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. The primary customization option is the choice of optic mounted on the Weaver rail.

It’s compatible with virtually any Weaver or Picatinny-style scope ring, red dot sight, or other accessory. Users can choose from a vast array of aftermarket optics to suit their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount

Who Should Buy BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount?

The BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount is perfect for firearm owners who want to modernize their older rifles or rimfires without permanent modifications. It’s particularly useful for those seeking to mount scopes or red dot sights on guns with limited mounting options.

This product is not ideal for shooters who demand absolute stability and are unwilling to perform periodic maintenance. Those who prefer a truly “set it and forget it” solution should consider firearms with integrated Weaver or Picatinny rails.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening. Thread locker (such as Loctite) may also be beneficial, but should be used cautiously as it can make future removal more difficult and could potentially damage the firearm’s finish.

Conclusion on BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount

The BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount offers a functional solution for adapting dovetail rails to Weaver/Picatinny optics. The build quality is respectable, and it expands the optic options for older firearms.

At a price of $29.99, the value is reasonable, considering the functionality it provides. However, the need for frequent re-tightening detracts from the overall experience.

I would cautiously recommend this product to those who understand its limitations and are willing to perform periodic maintenance. It’s a viable solution, but not a perfect one. If you need to mount a modern optic on an older dovetail rifle, the BKL Technologies Long Dovetail To Weaver Adaptor Mount is worth considering. Just be prepared to keep a screwdriver handy!