First Impressions of Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder promises a simple and effective way to enhance a lever-action rifle. Specifically, it offers both optic mounting versatility and onboard ammunition storage. I’ve always appreciated the classic lines and handling of lever guns, but often found myself wanting a more modern sighting system and a way to carry extra rounds. This product seemed to offer a solution without permanently altering the rifle’s character.
I’d been looking for a way to add a red dot sight to my Henry X Model .38/.357 without resorting to a full-blown tactical conversion. I also wanted readily available ammunition for quicker reloads. Several other side-mounted shell holders and Picatinny rail options were available, but they often looked clunky or required drilling and tapping. The Midwest Industries design appeared to be a clean, non-permanent solution, leveraging existing receiver mounting points.
Unboxing the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the machining and the anodized finish. The aluminum rail felt robust and lightweight, and the included shell holders appeared durable. The fit and finish screamed quality, a far cry from some of the cheaper, plastic alternatives I had considered.
I considered a Weaver rail mount and a separate stick-on shell holder, but the combination seemed less elegant and potentially less stable. A competitor’s railed handguard offered more rail space, but it completely changed the rifle’s classic appearance. The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder struck a balance between modern functionality and traditional aesthetics.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a well-engineered solution, but I was eager to see how it performed in the field and how securely it mounted to my rifle. I was excited to finally have a versatile mounting solution without sacrificing the classic look of my lever-action.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder on my Henry X Model .38/.357 and headed to my local shooting range. The installation process was straightforward, requiring only the correct screwdriver bits and about 15 minutes. I mounted a Holosun 507C red dot sight on the rail and loaded six .38 Special rounds into the included shell holders.
The first few shots confirmed that the rail was rock solid, providing a stable platform for the red dot sight. The added weight was negligible, and the balance of the rifle remained largely unchanged. Accessing the shells from the holder was surprisingly intuitive, allowing for quick reloads during rapid-fire drills. There were no malfunctions or issues whatsoever.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a couple of backcountry excursions, the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my rifle. The anodized finish shows no signs of wear, even after exposure to rain and mud. The shell holders have maintained their retention, securely holding the cartridges in place, even during rough handling.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. I occasionally apply a light coat of oil to the screws to prevent corrosion. Compared to other aftermarket accessories I’ve used, the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is constructed from hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum. This provides a lightweight yet incredibly strong mounting platform. It features a black anodized finish for corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
It includes three Midwest Industries Universal Shell Holders (MI-USH). These holders can be positioned vertically or horizontally, allowing for up to six rounds of ammunition storage. The rail is designed to mount directly to the rifle receiver using existing mounting points. The set also comes with nylon-tipped stainless steel set screws, ensuring secure and non-marring installation. The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is proudly made in the USA.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the product’s performance and longevity. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, preventing the rifle from becoming unwieldy. The anodized finish protects against the elements, ensuring years of reliable service.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder performs its intended function exceptionally well. It provides a stable platform for mounting optics, allowing for improved accuracy and target acquisition. The integrated shell holders offer quick and easy access to extra ammunition, increasing overall readiness.
The design is well thought out, and the components are precisely manufactured. The only minor improvement I would suggest is offering the rail in different lengths to accommodate various optic sizes and user preferences. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder boasts a sleek and functional design. The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth finish. The aluminum construction keeps the weight to a minimum, and the ergonomic design ensures that it doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling.
The installation is straightforward, and the shell holders are easy to configure. The low-profile design maintains the rifle’s classic aesthetics while adding modern functionality. The user-friendly design requires no specialized knowledge or tools for installation or adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is built to last. The hard coat anodized aluminum is incredibly resistant to scratches, corrosion, and wear. The shell holders are made from durable polymer that can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. The design is robust and reliable, ensuring years of trouble-free service. Its robust construction guarantees longevity, making it a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is primarily designed to be used with a variety of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and low-power variable optics (LPVOs). The Picatinny rail is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail-mounted accessory. The shell holders can accommodate a wide range of cartridge sizes, including .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and .45 Colt.
While there are no specific accessories designed solely for the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder, its compatibility with standard Picatinny accessories opens up a world of customization options. Users can easily add lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories to enhance their rifle’s capabilities. The versatility in accessory compatibility further enhances its value.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
Pros
- Provides a stable and secure platform for mounting optics.
- Integrated shell holders offer quick and easy access to extra ammunition.
- Durable aluminum construction with a corrosion-resistant anodized finish.
- Simple and non-permanent installation.
- Maintains the classic look and feel of the firearm.
Cons
- The shell holders may add slight bulk to the side of the rifle.
- Limited rail space might not accommodate larger optics or multiple accessories.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder?
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is perfect for lever-action rifle owners who want to improve their rifle’s versatility and accuracy. It is also ideal for hunters, ranchers, and recreational shooters who appreciate the convenience of having readily available ammunition. Anyone seeking a non-permanent mounting solution for optics and ammunition on their lever-action rifle will find this product to be an excellent choice.
This product may not be ideal for those who prioritize an ultra-lightweight setup or those who prefer a completely traditional lever-action rifle without any modern accessories. Those who require extensive rail space for multiple accessories might also find the rail’s length to be limiting.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality red dot sight or LPVO to take full advantage of the rail’s optic mounting capabilities. Additionally, a sling is always recommended for carrying the rifle comfortably in the field.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed accessory that enhances the functionality of lever-action rifles. It provides a secure platform for optics and convenient onboard ammunition storage without permanently altering the rifle’s aesthetics. The quality of materials and construction is excellent, ensuring years of reliable service.
The price of $99.95 is justified by the product’s quality, performance, and versatility. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to modernize their lever-action rifle without sacrificing its classic appeal.
I would definitely recommend the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder to anyone seeking a simple, effective, and durable way to add optics and ammunition storage to their lever-action rifle. Upgrade your lever gun today with the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder!