First Impressions of Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount promises a rock-solid, reliable platform for your Vortex Sparc AR red dot sight. It aims to provide a proper lower 1/3 co-witness without the hassle of shims, all while maintaining a return-to-zero capability that’s critical for any serious shooter. As someone who’s spent years mounting optics on various platforms, I was particularly keen to see if this mount lived up to the hype, especially considering the sometimes-finicky nature of red dot sight compatibility.
I needed a reliable mount for my AR-15 build, something that wouldn’t shift zero under heavy use and that would provide a comfortable cheek weld. I was tired of using generic mounts that either sat too low or required stacking shims to achieve the correct height.
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount arrived in a simple package. My initial impression was positive, noting the clean machining and the sturdy feel of the 6061 aluminum. The hard coat anodized finish looked durable and ready for some serious abuse. Compared to some cheaper mounts I’ve used in the past, this one felt noticeably more substantial. I considered a few other mounts, but Midwest Industries‘ reputation for quality and precision, plus the promise of a lower 1/3 co-witness without shims, ultimately swayed me.
Initially, I was excited. It appeared well-made and ready to go, although the lack of included screws did raise an eyebrow, based on past experience with Midwest Industries products. The anticipation of a perfectly mounted Sparc AR, sitting exactly where it should on my rifle, was palpable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount at my local shooting range, mounting it on my AR-15 chambered in 5.56 NATO. The weather was sunny, but slightly windy, providing decent conditions for zeroing and testing the optic’s stability.
The mount performed admirably, holding zero even after repeated strings of fire. The lower 1/3 co-witness was perfect, allowing me to easily transition between the red dot and my iron sights. There were no immediate issues, though the initial tightening of the Elite Defense QD lever required a bit of adjustment to find the sweet spot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount has proven to be a reliable addition to my AR-15. It has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear on the QD lever’s contact points.
The anodized finish remains intact, resisting scratches and abrasions. I regularly clean my rifle after each range session, and the mount requires minimal maintenance. Compared to a cheaper, no-name mount I used previously, the Midwest Industries mount is a clear winner in terms of durability and zero retention.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount is precision machined for optimal return-to-zero performance and reliability. The mount is constructed from hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum. The patented QD lever by Elite Defense allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment. It is made in the USA.
These specifications are critical because they directly influence the mount’s ability to withstand recoil and maintain zero. The 6061 aluminum provides a good balance of strength and weight, while the hard coat anodizing enhances its resistance to wear and corrosion.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount performs its job exceptionally well. The mount provides a stable and repeatable platform for the Vortex Sparc AR.
Its strength is in its simplicity and reliability, allowing for quick optic changes without losing zero. The only area for potential improvement is the inclusion of mounting screws, as they were not included in the package I received. It certainly meets my expectations, and then exceeds them, for a mount in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount is clean and functional. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most AR-15 platforms.
The QD lever is easy to operate, even with gloves. There’s a slight learning curve in initially adjusting the lever’s tension, but once set, it remains secure.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount appears to be built to last. The hard coat anodized aluminum should withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent. The mount is easily cleaned.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount is specifically designed for the Vortex Sparc AR red dot sight. While it’s primarily a standalone mount, its compatibility with standard AR-15 upper receivers allows for seamless integration with various rail systems and accessories.
As mentioned in user feedback, it also works with the Truglo Ignite mini red dot sight, but only as a low mount. There aren’t many customization options for the mount itself, but the Sparc AR can be customized with lens protectors and kill flashes.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount
Pros
- Provides a true lower 1/3 co-witness without the need for shims.
- The Elite Defense QD lever allows for quick and easy optic removal and reattachment.
- The mount is constructed from durable 6061 aluminum with a hard coat anodized finish.
- Maintains a reliable return-to-zero after multiple removals.
- The Midwest Industries reputation for quality and precision.
Cons
- Mounting screws are NOT included, requiring reuse of the factory screws from the optic.
- Initial adjustment of the QD lever can require some fine-tuning.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount?
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount is perfect for AR-15 owners looking for a reliable and repeatable mounting solution for their Vortex Sparc AR red dot sight. It’s ideal for those who want a proper lower 1/3 co-witness without the hassle of shims.
Those who are on an extremely tight budget, or those who don’t mind using a basic, non-QD mount might want to explore cheaper alternatives. Must-have accessories include blue Loctite for the screws and a quality torque wrench to ensure proper installation.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount
The Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount is a high-quality, reliable mount that delivers on its promises. The price of $91.95 is justified given the mount’s durability, precision, and return-to-zero capability.
I would absolutely recommend this mount to anyone looking to upgrade their Vortex Sparc AR setup. It’s a solid investment that will provide years of reliable service. Don’t hesitate—upgrade your setup with the Midwest Industries Vortex Sparc AR Mount today and experience the difference a quality mount can make.