First Impressions of American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount
The American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount promises a rock-solid, quick-detach (QD) solution for mounting the increasingly popular Holosun AEMS optic. This mount addresses a common need: upgrading from the factory mount to something more robust and offering a specific co-witness height with iron sights. It offers various height options, using American Defense Manufacturing’s patented QD Auto Lock lever system for secure attachment to any Picatinny rail.
I’ve always valued a reliable and repeatable zero when it comes to optics mounts. Cheap mounts can shift zero under recoil, or fail to return to zero after being removed and reattached. I was looking for a QD mount specifically for my Holosun AEMS to transfer it between different rifles easily without losing zero.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The mount itself felt substantial and well-machined. The black anodized finish looked clean and durable. It certainly inspires more confidence than the basic mount that comes with the AEMS. My first thought was, “This thing looks built to last.”
I considered a Scalarworks mount and a few offerings from Midwest Industries. However, American Defense Manufacturing‘s reputation for quality and the proven track record of their Auto Lock lever system swayed me. Plus, the price point was compelling.
My initial impression was positive; the American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount exudes quality and looks like it will perform as advertised. I was excited to get it installed and tested.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount at my local outdoor range. I mounted it on my AR-15 platform rifle, zeroed the AEMS, and ran several drills. The range was dry and sunny, so conditions were ideal for initial testing.
The mount held zero perfectly during the first session, even after rapid firing strings. The QD lever was easy to operate and locked up tightly without requiring excessive force. I had chosen the lower 1/3 co-witness height, and it aligned perfectly with my iron sights.
There were no immediate issues. The mount felt secure. It provided a confident platform for the optic right from the start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve taken it through various range sessions and even a carbine course that involved shooting in prone positions and navigating obstacles.
The anodized finish has held up well. There are no noticeable scratches or signs of wear, despite some rough handling. Maintenance is simple, just a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range visit.
Compared to previous mounts I’ve used, this one stands out in terms of its ability to maintain zero. Removing and reattaching the AEMS using the QD lever consistently resulted in a return to the original zero. It outperformed a cheaper, no-name QD mount I had previously used. That cheaper mount would always require re-zeroing after removal and re-installation. The American Defense Manufacturing mount delivers the consistency I need.
Breaking Down the Features of American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount
Specifications
- Manufacturer: American Defense Manufacturing.
- Color: Black.
- Finish: Anodized.
- Gun Type: Rifle.
- Length: 2 inches.
- Base/Mount Type: QD mount.
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This is a common and well-regarded aluminum alloy known for its strength and lightweight properties.
- Width: 1.4 inches.
- Optic Cut: Holosun AEMS. This ensures a perfect fit for the AEMS red dot sight.
- Hand: Ambidextrous. The QD lever is accessible and operable from either side.
- Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Not Applicable.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring compatibility, durability, and performance. The 6061-T6 aluminum construction provides a balance of strength and weight. The anodized finish protects against corrosion.
Performance & Functionality
The American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount excels at its primary function: securely and reliably mounting the Holosun AEMS red dot sight. The QD lever system allows for quick and easy removal and attachment. It maintains zero with remarkable consistency.
Its strength lies in its rock-solid mounting and reliable return to zero. The only minor drawback is the potential for the lever to loosen over time. However, it’s easily adjustable with a finger or screwdriver. The mount meets and exceeds my expectations for a QD optic mount.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The 6061-T6 aluminum feels robust. The mount is relatively lightweight. This minimizes added bulk to the rifle.
The QD lever design is intuitive and easy to use. There’s no noticeable learning curve. The ambidextrous design is a plus for left-handed shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount is built to last. The hard-coat anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. Regular maintenance involves only cleaning.
With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The robust construction suggests it can withstand considerable abuse in the field.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mount itself doesn’t require any additional accessories for its primary function. The main customization option is choosing the correct height for co-witnessing with iron sights. Absolute co-witness, lower 1/3 co-witness, 1.93″ and 2.33″ heights are available.
The mount is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail. Aftermarket screws might be desired if you need to replace the factory screws over time, but this is not a necessity.
Pros and Cons of American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount
Pros
- Rock-solid mounting platform: Ensures the optic stays securely in place, even under heavy recoil.
- Reliable return to zero: Maintains zero after repeated removal and reattachment.
- Quick-detach (QD) functionality: Allows for fast and easy optic changes.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction: Provides excellent strength and lightweight performance.
- Ambidextrous QD lever: Accommodates both left- and right-handed shooters.
Cons
- QD lever tightness may require occasional adjustment.
- Slightly more expensive than some budget mount options.
Who Should Buy American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount?
The American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount is perfect for: serious shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who relies on their rifle for defense or competition. It is also beneficial for those who want to easily transfer their AEMS between multiple rifles.
This product is not necessary for: casual shooters who rarely remove their optic or aren’t concerned with precise zero retention.
A must-have accessory is a quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening during installation. Loctite can be used on the screws to provide added security.
Conclusion on American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount
The American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount is a top-tier optic mount that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure, reliable, and repeatable mounting solution for the Holosun AEMS red dot sight.
The price is justified by the quality of construction, the performance of the QD lever system, and the overall reliability of the mount. It is an investment in confidence.
I would absolutely recommend the American Defense Manufacturing Holosun AEMS Red Dot Mount to anyone looking for a high-quality QD mount for their AEMS. Upgrade your optic mounting system now and experience the difference!