Let’s Dive into AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2
The M-14/M1A rifle, a stalwart of American military history, continues to be a favorite among civilian shooters. Slapping a scope on one enhances its accuracy and extends its effective range. AIM Sports Inc enters the fray with their M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2, promising a lightweight, low-profile solution for optic mounting.
I needed a stable, reliable mount for a red dot sight on my M1A SOCOM, aiming for quicker target acquisition without significantly increasing weight. Several mounts were available, but the AIM Sports Inc model caught my eye with its promise of a low-profile design that would allow continued use of iron sights. I also considered a heavier, steel mount from Sadlak and a similar aluminum mount from UTG, but ultimately chose the AIM Sports Inc version, hoping its lightweight nature would be ideal for my SOCOM configuration.
Upon unboxing, I was initially impressed by the mount’s sleek, black finish and apparent simplicity. It felt surprisingly light, thanks to its 6061 T6 aluminum construction. The milled opening for ejection clearing seemed like a thoughtful design element.
Compared to the bulkier steel options, this mount presented a cleaner, less obtrusive profile. While the UTG mount seemed to offer slightly more robust construction, the AIM Sports Inc mount had a cleaner aesthetic. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential for a lightweight, low-profile optic solution, but the lightweight nature also raised concerns about its long-term durability and recoil management capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2 was disappointing, to say the least. I mounted a Trijicon MRO red dot sight and headed to my local range for some zeroing and familiarization. I experienced immediate ejection issues on my M1A SOCOM.
Every few rounds, a spent casing would get trapped between the bottom of the mount and the top of the magazine, causing a significant malfunction. This occurred regardless of the ammunition used (various brands of 7.62x51mm NATO). The malfunctions were consistent and unacceptable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial disastrous range session, I tried troubleshooting the ejection issues by adjusting the mount’s position slightly. I also experimented with different magazines. Nothing solved the core problem of spent casings getting wedged.
After approximately 50 rounds, I removed the mount entirely. The aluminum showed slight wear marks where the ejected casings were impacting. I noticed no other significant damage.
Maintaining the mount was simple enough—a quick wipe down with a cloth was sufficient. However, its primary function – mounting a scope reliably – was fundamentally flawed in my experience. The AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2 was a significant disappointment, performing far worse than I had anticipated. My prior experiences with other AIM Sports Inc products hadn’t prepared me for this level of functional failure.
Breaking Down the Features of AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2
Specifications
- Product Color: Black – Cosmetically appealing, blends well with most M14/M1A rifles.
- Material: 6061 T6 Aluminum – Lightweight, but potentially less durable than steel alternatives.
- Rail Type: Mil 1913 (Picatinny) – Industry-standard, compatible with a wide range of optics.
- Profile: Low Profile – Allows for potential co-witnessing with iron sights.
- Feature: Milled opening for ejection clearing – A design element intended to prevent ejection issues.
These specifications highlight the trade-offs made in the design. The aluminum construction aims for weight reduction, but sacrifices some durability. The low profile is appealing, but contributes to ejection problems by not providing enough clearance.
Performance & Functionality
The AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2’s primary function – providing a stable platform for optics – is severely compromised by its ejection issues. Accuracy is irrelevant if the rifle fails to cycle reliably. It failed to meet even basic expectations.
Its strengths are limited to its low weight and ease of installation. However, these are overshadowed by the critical flaw of unreliable ejection. Improvement is desperately needed in the mount’s design to ensure proper clearance for spent casings.
Design & Ergonomics
The mount is lightweight and easy to handle. It installs quickly using the existing M14/M1A receiver mounting points. However, the low profile, while aesthetically pleasing, is detrimental to its function.
There’s no significant learning curve involved in its installation. However, understanding why it’s failing requires careful observation of the ejection process.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061 T6 aluminum is reasonably durable for its weight. It will likely withstand typical use and handling. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning.
However, the potential for wear and tear from impacting ejected casings is a concern. The longevity of the finish is also questionable with repeated brass impacts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2 is compatible with any optic that utilizes a Mil 1913 Picatinny rail. This includes a wide range of red dot sights, holographic sights, and scopes. No accessories come included beyond the mount itself.
There are no inherent customization options for the mount itself. Users are limited to selecting compatible optics. AIM Sports Inc does not offer any variations or modifications to the mount’s design.
Pros and Cons of AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2
Pros
- Lightweight design for reduced overall rifle weight.
- Easy to install using existing M14/M1A receiver mounting points.
- Mil 1913 Picatinny rail compatible with a wide range of optics.
- Low profile potentially allows for co-witnessing with iron sights (if ejection issues are resolved).
- Inexpensive compared to higher-end M14/M1A scope mounts.
Cons
- Severe ejection issues, causing frequent malfunctions.
- Low profile design contributes to ejection problems by lacking sufficient clearance.
- 6061 T6 Aluminum construction may not be as durable as steel alternatives.
Who Should Buy AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2?
This mount is not recommended for anyone seeking a reliable optic mounting solution for their M14/M1A rifle. The persistent ejection issues render it unsuitable for any practical application, be it hunting, target shooting, or tactical use.
Anyone prioritizing reliability and functionality should skip this product. This includes law enforcement, military personnel, and serious civilian shooters. The potential for catastrophic malfunctions outweighs any perceived benefits.
There are no must-have accessories or modifications that can overcome the inherent design flaws of this mount. It is fundamentally flawed in its current form.
Conclusion on AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2
The AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2 promises a lightweight, low-profile optic mounting solution for the venerable M14/M1A rifle. However, in practice, it fails spectacularly due to persistent and severe ejection issues. The $59.99 price point is irrelevant when the mount renders the rifle unreliable.
I would not recommend this product to anyone. Its design flaws are simply too significant to overlook. The AIM Sports Inc M-14/M1A Scope Mount/V2 is a testament to the fact that affordability should never come at the expense of functionality and reliability.
Avoid this mount and invest in a more robust and well-designed option from a reputable manufacturer. Your M14/M1A deserves better.