Let’s Talk About Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 is a unique and practical firearm, known for its folding design and affordability. Enhancing its functionality, however, often requires aftermarket solutions. The Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized aims to address the limitations of the factory sights and provide a stable platform for optics.
My journey to this particular mount started with a desire to improve the accuracy and speed of target acquisition with my Gen 2 Sub-2000. The factory iron sights, while functional, are not ideal for quick engagements or precision shooting. I needed a reliable way to mount a red dot sight without compromising the rifle’s folding capability.
Upon unboxing the Midwest Industries mount, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction and sleek design. The Black Hardcoat Anodized finish gave it a professional look and suggested durability. Its weight felt substantial, indicative of the quality 6061-T6 Aluminum used in its construction.
I considered several other options, including M-CARBO’s offerings and some cheaper alternatives on Amazon. However, Midwest Industries’ reputation for quality and the positive reviews regarding zero retention swayed my decision. I was hoping for a mount that could withstand repeated folding and unfolding without losing its zero.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. The design seemed clever, but I was eager to test its real-world performance and confirm its reliability. Could this mount truly deliver a consistent zero despite the Sub-2000’s folding mechanism?
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range. I mounted a Sig Romeo5 red dot sight onto the Midwest Industries rail and proceeded to zero it at 25 yards. The mounting process was straightforward, thanks to the M-Lok compatibility.
The performance was immediately noticeable compared to the factory sights. Target acquisition was significantly faster, and my groupings tightened considerably. I spent the session repeatedly folding and unfolding the Sub-2000, carefully observing any shift in the red dot’s zero.
Initially, there were no noticeable changes in zero, even after several rotations. This was a major relief, as consistent zero retention was my primary concern. However, I did observe a slight “wiggle” in the mount after folding, an issue some other users had also noted.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries mount has largely held up well. I’ve used it in various conditions, including hot, humid days at the range and a few drizzly outings in the woods. The Black Hardcoat Anodized finish has proven resistant to scratches and corrosion.
Despite the initial positive impressions, the slight wiggle I observed during my first use has become more pronounced over time. While the mount generally holds zero, there’s definitely some play in the swivel mechanism. This makes it unsuitable for precision shooting at longer distances.
Maintenance is simple; I just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. I have noticed no significant wear and tear other than the aforementioned wiggle. While it doesn’t fully outperform my expectations, it still provides a significant improvement over the stock sights for close-quarters applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Midwest Industries. They are known for producing high-quality, durable firearm accessories.
- Finish: Black Hardcoat Anodized. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This aluminum alloy offers a great balance of strength and weight.
- Condition: New. The product is shipped in pristine condition.
- Country of Origin: USA. This ensures high manufacturing standards and quality control.
The 6061-T6 Aluminum is crucial because it provides the necessary rigidity to maintain zero while keeping the overall weight manageable. The Black Hardcoat Anodized finish protects against the elements and ensures the mount blends seamlessly with the Sub-2000’s aesthetics. The US-made origin gives confidence in the product’s quality and reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized excels at providing a stable platform for mounting optics on the Kel-Tec Sub-2000. It allows for quick and easy attachment of red dot sights, improving target acquisition speed and accuracy at close to medium ranges. However, the swivel mechanism introduces a degree of instability.
The mount’s primary strength is its ability to retain zero reasonably well despite the Sub-2000’s folding action. Its main weakness is the slight wiggle that develops over time, compromising precision. It mostly meets expectations for close-quarters use, but falls short for long-range accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The mount’s design is streamlined and integrates well with the Sub-2000’s aesthetics. The 6061-T6 Aluminum construction keeps the weight down, and the Black Hardcoat Anodized finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface. However, the high optic mounting position makes achieving a proper cheek weld difficult.
The mount is relatively user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. There is a slight learning curve in ensuring proper alignment during installation, but the process is generally straightforward. The high optic placement necessitates a higher cheek weld, which some shooters may find uncomfortable.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized is constructed from durable materials and is designed to withstand regular use. With proper care, it should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the swivel mechanism will help maintain its performance.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a clean cloth and occasional lubrication. There are no complex parts that require specialized tools for repair. While the mount is robust, the swivel mechanism is a potential point of failure over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries mount is primarily designed for mounting mini red dot sights. It is compatible with any optic that utilizes the standard M-Lok mounting system. There are no additional accessories included with the mount.
The M-Lok compatibility allows for a wide range of customization options. Users can attach lights, lasers, or other accessories to the rail. The Midwest Industries mount is compatible with most popular red dot sights and M-Lok accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
Pros
- Provides a stable platform for mounting optics on the Kel-Tec Sub-2000, significantly improving target acquisition.
- The Black Hardcoat Anodized finish offers excellent corrosion resistance and blends seamlessly with the Sub-2000.
- Made in the USA, ensuring high manufacturing standards and quality control.
- Relatively easy to install and maintain.
- Allows the Sub-2000 to still be folded for storage and transportation.
Cons
- The swivel mechanism can develop a slight wiggle over time, compromising precision.
- High optic mounting position makes achieving a proper cheek weld difficult.
- Relatively expensive compared to some other mounting options.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized?
The Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized is perfect for Kel-Tec Sub-2000 owners looking to improve their target acquisition speed and accuracy at close to medium ranges, especially for those prioritizing the Sub-2000’s folding capabilities. It is also well-suited for those who prefer a US-made product from a reputable manufacturer.
Those prioritizing long-range precision or requiring absolute zero retention should probably skip this product. Users highly sensitive to cheek weld issues may also want to consider alternative mounting solutions. A cheek riser might be a must-have accessory for some users to compensate for the high optic mounting position.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
Overall, the Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized is a solid upgrade for the Kel-Tec Sub-2000. It offers a significant improvement in usability and accuracy compared to the factory sights, while still allowing the rifle to be folded. The price is somewhat high, but the quality of construction and the Midwest Industries reputation partially justify the cost.
I would personally recommend this mount to Sub-2000 owners who value the rifle’s folding capability and primarily use it for close-quarters shooting. However, potential buyers should be aware of the slight wiggle that can develop over time and the challenges it presents to maintaining absolute zero. If you’re seeking to enhance your Sub-2000’s capabilities without sacrificing its compact design, then give the Midwest Industries mount a try!