Let’s Talk About American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard
The American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard is a specialized piece of equipment designed to seamlessly integrate the ubiquitous Aimpoint T1/H1 micro red dot sight with the VLTOR CASV handguard system. It aims to provide a lower 1/3 co-witness, which is a preferred height for many shooters, allowing for the use of iron sights while maintaining a clear red dot sight picture. It’s a product that caught my attention after struggling to find a mount that would work correctly with my specific setup.
I had a problem: I’d invested in a VLTOR CASV handguard for my AR-15, wanting that rock-solid, continuous top rail. I also run an Aimpoint T1; a pairing seemingly made in heaven. However, finding a mount that would provide the correct height for a comfortable and functional co-witness with my iron sights proved frustrating.
Upon receiving the mount, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The American Defense Manufacturing reputation for quality is immediately apparent. The mount is machined from 6061 T6 aluminum, and the hard coat T3 Mil-Spec anodize gives it a durable and professional finish.
I had previously tried a generic high-rise mount and a couple of other lower 1/3 options from different manufacturers. These other options either sat too high, obscuring the iron sights entirely, or weren’t compatible with the VLTOR CASV’s unique rail height. The American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard promised a specific solution to a specific problem, which is why I chose it.
My initial impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. The mount looked precisely as advertised. I was eager to test its fit and co-witness height.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to see how it performed under controlled conditions. The weather was sunny and dry, ideal for zeroing and testing the co-witness of my Aimpoint T1 with my iron sights.
The mount attached quickly and securely to the VLTOR CASV rail using the American Defense Manufacturing patented QD Auto Lock Lever system. The lever provided a positive and repeatable lockup. I experienced no wobble or movement during my initial shooting session.
The co-witness was exactly as advertised: a lower 1/3. This allowed for a clear view of the target with the red dot while still permitting the use of iron sights without obstruction. I didn’t need any time to get used to the mount; it felt immediately natural.
The only slight surprise was how precisely the mount needed to be positioned on the rail to achieve perfect alignment. It wasn’t a significant issue, but something to note during installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard has held up exceptionally well. I’ve put it through various range sessions and even a couple of carbine courses. The mount continues to perform flawlessly.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The anodized finish remains intact, resisting scratches and abrasions. Regular cleaning with a standard gun solvent and a brush keeps it in top condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with inferior mounts, the American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard is a game-changer. It provides the correct height, a secure attachment, and consistent performance. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard
Specifications
- Material: Precision machined from 6061 T6 aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet incredibly strong platform. This is critical for maintaining a stable zero and resisting the stresses of recoil and handling.
- Finish: Hard coat T3 Mil-Spec anodize, providing superior corrosion resistance and durability against scratches and abrasions. The Mil-Spec anodizing is a sign of quality, indicating it meets stringent military standards.
- Co-Witness Height: Lower 1/3 (SOCOM Height), providing a clear sight picture and unobstructed use of iron sights. The lower 1/3 co-witness is a popular choice because it keeps the iron sights readily available without cluttering the optic view.
- Centerline Height: 1.15″, which is the distance from the rail to the center of the optic. This dimension is crucial for ensuring proper cheek weld and alignment.
- QD Lever System: Patented QD Auto Lock Lever system to accommodate both in-spec and out-of-spec rail systems, offering flexibility and a secure fit on various platforms. The quick detach lever enables rapid removal and reattachment of the optic without losing zero.
- Compatibility: Fits Aimpoint T-1/H-1 Micro, Vortex SPARC, and Primary Arms Micro Dot (will not Co-Witness with Vortex SPARC or Primary Arms Micro Dot). This adds versatility, although only the Aimpoint T1/H1 will achieve the advertised co-witness.
- Titanium Lever: The Titanium Lever adds extra durability and reduces weight. This is a premium feature often found on higher-end mounts.
Performance & Functionality
The American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard excels at its primary function: securely mounting an Aimpoint T1/H1 to a VLTOR CASV handguard while providing a lower 1/3 co-witness. Accuracy is maintained due to the stable and rigid mounting platform. The QD lever system allows for quick removal and reattachment without significant zero shift.
A strength of the mount is its ease of installation and secure attachment. A potential weakness is its limited compatibility with optics beyond the Aimpoint T1/H1 for achieving the advertised co-witness height. The mount definitely meets expectations, providing a specific and well-executed solution for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is outstanding. The 6061 T6 aluminum and Mil-Spec anodizing give the mount a robust and durable feel. The weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.
The mount is user-friendly. The QD lever is intuitive to use. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard is built to last. Regular cleaning is sufficient for maintenance. No special tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mount itself doesn’t require any additional accessories for its primary function. However, users might consider adding lens covers or other protective accessories for their Aimpoint T1/H1. The mount is compatible with any standard Aimpoint T1/H1 compatible accessories.
Pros and Cons of American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard
Pros
- Provides true lower 1/3 co-witness with Aimpoint T1/H1 on VLTOR CASV handguard.
- Rock-solid and durable 6061 T6 aluminum construction with Mil-Spec anodize.
- Easy to install and remove with the Patented QD Auto Lock Lever system.
- Maintains zero after repeated removal and reattachment.
- High-quality construction ensures longevity and reliable performance.
Cons
- Co-witness only guaranteed with Aimpoint T1/H1; other optics may not achieve the same height.
- Relatively expensive compared to generic mounts, but justifiable for the specific application.
Who Should Buy American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard?
The American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard is perfect for AR-15 owners who have a VLTOR CASV handguard and want to mount an Aimpoint T1/H1 with a lower 1/3 co-witness. It’s also suitable for law enforcement or military personnel using similar setups. Anyone who values a secure, repeatable, and reliable mounting solution for their optic will appreciate this product.
Those who do not have a VLTOR CASV handguard should skip this product. Standard height rails will likely achieve absolute co-witness as opposed to lower 1/3. Also, users looking for the cheapest possible mount, or those not concerned with co-witnessing their iron sights, may find other options more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of back-up iron sights to take advantage of the co-witness feature. Lens covers for the Aimpoint T1/H1 are also a good investment.
Conclusion on American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard
The American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard is a specialized, high-quality product that fulfills its intended purpose exceptionally well. It provides a rock-solid and repeatable mounting solution for Aimpoint T1/H1 optics on VLTOR CASV handguards. The price is justified by the quality of materials, precise engineering, and the reliable performance it delivers.
I would definitely recommend this mount to anyone seeking a proper lower 1/3 co-witness on their VLTOR CASV equipped AR-15. If you value reliability, durability, and a perfect fit, then invest in the American Defense Manufacturing Mount for Aimpoint T1 for Vltor CASV Handguard. You won’t be disappointed.