First Thoughts on the Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount)
The Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) from NcStar promises to bring the world of Weaver-style optics and accessories to the venerable AK platform. For AK owners who want to modernize their rifles without extensive modifications, a side rail mount is often the go-to solution. The Msak aims to be an affordable option, offering both a top rail for optics and a side rail for accessories.
My journey to the Msak began with a desire to mount a red dot sight on my AK. The iron sights, while classic, weren’t conducive to quick target acquisition in dynamic shooting drills. I also wanted to attach a weapon light for home defense scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the Msak feels surprisingly solid for its price point. The aluminum construction appears robust, and the black finish is consistent. It’s noticeably heavier than I expected, but hopefully, that translates to durability. I was immediately curious about how securely it would clamp onto the AK’s side rail.
Compared to more expensive options from companies like Midwest Industries or RS Regulate, the Msak is significantly more budget-friendly. I chose it primarily for its affordability, hoping it could provide a functional mounting platform without breaking the bank. I was cautiously optimistic, knowing that compromises are often made at this price point.
My initial impression was a mix of intrigue and skepticism. I was eager to see if the Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) could live up to its promise of securely mounting optics and accessories on my AK, or if it would succumb to the notorious recoil of the platform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at an outdoor shooting range. I mounted the Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) on my Romanian WASR-10, a common AK variant. The installation process was straightforward, sliding the mount onto the side rail and tightening the three Allen screws.
The mount seemed secure initially, but after only a few magazines, the screws began to loosen. I had to frequently re-tighten them between strings of fire. The recoil from the 7.62x39mm cartridge was proving to be a significant challenge for the mount’s stability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) showed some wear and tear. The finish began to chip around the edges, and the Allen screws showed signs of stripping despite careful tightening. The main issue remained the mount’s tendency to loosen over time.
I tried applying Loctite to the screws to improve their hold, which helped temporarily. However, the constant vibration from the AK’s action eventually defeated the adhesive. Cleaning the mount was simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a cloth.
Compared to my experience with higher-end AK optic mounts, the Msak falls short in terms of long-term reliability. It’s a functional option for occasional use, but it wouldn’t be my choice for serious applications or high round counts. The Msak is simply not as robust.
Breaking Down the Features of Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount)
Specifications
The Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) features a Weaver-style top rail for mounting optics. It also includes a side rail, providing additional space for accessories like flashlights or lasers. The mount is constructed from aluminum and finished in black.
The listed length is 5.24 inches, the height is 3.55 inches, and the weight is 6.7 ounces. These specifications are important because they determine the mount’s size, weight, and compatibility with various AK platforms. A heavier mount may affect the rifle’s balance, while the rail length dictates the amount of space available for mounting accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Msak provides a functional platform for mounting optics and accessories on an AK. However, its performance is hindered by its tendency to loosen under recoil. This negatively impacts accuracy and reliability, especially with heavier optics or accessories.
The primary strength of the Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) is its affordability. The most significant weakness is its instability under recoil. It only partially meets expectations, offering a budget-friendly mounting solution with significant limitations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Msak’s design is simple and straightforward. The aluminum construction feels reasonably solid for the price, but the overall build quality is not on par with more expensive mounts. The weight is manageable, though noticeable.
The mount is relatively user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. However, the need for frequent re-tightening can be frustrating. The included Allen screws are prone to stripping if over-tightened.
Durability & Maintenance
The Msak’s long-term durability is questionable, based on my testing. The chipping finish and stripping screws indicate potential issues with longevity. The mount is easy to clean with standard gun cleaning supplies.
However, the constant need for maintenance (re-tightening) reduces its appeal as a reliable mounting solution. It is not designed to withstand heavy use or harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) comes with the necessary Allen screws for installation. It’s compatible with any Weaver-style optics and accessories. Aftermarket options are vast, ranging from red dot sights and scopes to weapon lights and lasers.
The Msak will accept most Weaver-compatible accessories. However, it is not compatible with AK-specific mounting systems like those from RS Regulate that require proprietary rails. The Msak is a closed system.
Pros and Cons of Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount)
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious AK owners.
- Provides both a top rail for optics and a side rail for accessories, increasing versatility.
- Relatively easy to install with basic tools.
- Accepts a wide range of Weaver-style optics and accessories.
- Functional for light use or as a temporary solution.
Cons
- Prone to loosening under recoil, impacting accuracy and reliability.
- The finish is susceptible to chipping and wear.
- Allen screws are prone to stripping if over-tightened.
Who Should Buy Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount)?
The Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) is perfect for AK owners on a very tight budget who need a basic optics mounting solution for light recreational shooting. It may also be suitable for airsoft AK replicas. If you are not doing serious tactical training, this may be for you.
Anyone who plans to use their AK for serious training, competition, or home defense should skip this product. It’s not robust or reliable enough to withstand heavy use or demanding conditions. A must-have modification would be upgrading the Allen screws with higher-quality replacements and using Loctite.
Conclusion on Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount)
The Msak (ak Side Rail Optics Mount) offers an affordable entry point into the world of AK optics mounting. However, its performance is compromised by its instability under recoil. The low price is justified by the mount’s limitations, but potential buyers should be aware of these drawbacks before making a purchase.
I would only cautiously recommend it for very specific use cases. For serious AK users, investing in a higher-quality mount is strongly advised. If you are on a tight budget and willing to accept the need for frequent maintenance, then the Msak may be a viable, albeit imperfect, option. Consider exploring alternative options before committing to the Msak.