American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT Review

First Impressions of American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT

The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT promises a simple solution for mounting optics on your 20-gauge shotgun. This seemingly straightforward accessory can drastically improve accuracy and versatility in the field, opening up new possibilities for hunters and sport shooters alike. The question is, does it deliver on that promise, or is it just another piece of tactical fluff?

For years, I’ve relied on my trusty 20-gauge for everything from upland bird hunting to deer drives in thick cover. Mounting a red dot or low-power scope always seemed like a desirable upgrade, but gunsmithing costs and permanent modifications were a turn-off. When I saw the American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT offered a no-gunsmithing solution, I was intrigued.

The saddle mount arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight, constructed of what appeared to be a durable aluminum alloy. The black finish was consistent and seemed resistant to scratching, a welcome sight for a product destined for the rough and tumble of the outdoors.

Compared to other mounting options, such as receiver drilling or adhesive-based mounts, the appeal of the NOMAD saddle mount lay in its ease of installation and reversibility. I picked this mount over others because it offered a damage-free way to explore the benefits of using optics on my shotgun.

Ultimately, my first impression was cautiously optimistic. The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT looked the part, but I was eager to see how it performed in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT at my local shooting range. I wanted to zero a red dot sight before taking it out on a turkey hunt. Installation was straightforward, requiring only the included thumb screws and a few minutes of my time.

The initial shots were promising; the mount held securely and didn’t shift under the recoil of standard 20-gauge loads. However, after about 20 rounds, I noticed a slight loosening of the thumb screws, requiring a quick re-tightening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a full turkey season, the American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT has proven to be a mixed bag. The mount itself remains structurally sound, with no signs of cracking or bending. However, the thumb screws require constant monitoring and tightening, especially after sustained periods of shooting.

The finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and dings from brushes with branches and accidental bumps against tree stands. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to permanently mounted optics, the ability to easily remove the saddle mount for thorough cleaning of the shotgun receiver is a significant advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT

Specifications

The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT is specifically designed for 20-gauge shotguns. It features an aluminum alloy construction and utilizes thumb screws for attachment to the shotgun’s receiver. The Manufacturer is American Tactical Imports.

• Gauge: 20
• Mounting System: Thumb Screws
• Material: Aluminum Alloy
• Finish: Matte Black
• Compatibility: Designed for most standard 20-gauge shotguns

The thumb screw mounting system makes the NOMAD saddle mount easy to install without specialized tools. The aluminum alloy construction balances weight and durability, making it a practical addition to any shotgun.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT is to provide a stable platform for mounting optics on a 20-gauge shotgun. When properly installed and maintained (i.e., thumb screws regularly tightened), it achieves this goal adequately. However, the need for constant tightening is a significant drawback.

The mount provides a reasonable sight picture, though the height-over-bore is slightly increased, requiring some adjustment when zeroing optics. While it’s a functional mount, the loosening screws hinder it from exceeding expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT boasts a low-profile design that doesn’t significantly alter the overall balance of the shotgun. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most shotgun finishes.

The thumb screw design is user-friendly, allowing for quick installation and removal in the field. However, the small size of the thumb screws can make them difficult to manipulate with gloved hands, a common scenario in hunting situations.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from aluminum alloy, the American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT is reasonably durable and capable of withstanding typical hunting conditions. The finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring a long service life.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of the thumb screws. The simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Its primary function is to provide a Picatinny rail for mounting various optics.

It’s compatible with a wide range of red dot sights, holographic sights, and low-power scopes designed for Picatinny rail mounting. The mount allows for versatility in choosing the ideal optic for specific hunting or shooting applications.

Pros and Cons of American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT

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Who Should Buy American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT?

The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT is perfect for hunters or sport shooters who want to experiment with optics on their 20-gauge shotgun without committing to permanent modifications. It’s also a good option for those on a tight budget who still desire the benefits of using optics.

Those seeking a rock-solid, competition-grade mounting solution should skip this product and consider professional gunsmithing or more robust mounting systems. Must-have accessories include a high-quality Picatinny rail-mounted optic and a small multi-tool with a screwdriver for tightening the thumb screws in the field.

Conclusion on American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT

The American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT offers a budget-friendly and easily reversible way to mount optics on a 20-gauge shotgun. While the thumb screw design allows for simple installation, it also presents the primary drawback: the tendency for the screws to loosen under recoil.

At a price of $37.99, the value proposition is reasonable, but buyers should be aware of the limitations. I would recommend it as a temporary or experimental solution, or for shooters who are willing to diligently monitor and tighten the thumb screws.

Ultimately, the American Tactical Imports NOMAD 20GA SADDLE MOUNT is a decent entry-level option, but those seeking ultimate reliability and precision should explore more permanent mounting solutions. If you are okay with checking the screws every few shots then it is worth the money.