First Thoughts on the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2
The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 from, well, let’s just call it the Manufacturer, is a simple piece of kit with a big job: bridging the gap between classic firearms and modern optics. Specifically designed for the HK® MP5, CETME, and 90 series of long guns, this mount offers a Picatinny rail for attaching red dots, scopes, and other accessories. For those of us clinging to our legacy platforms but wanting the advantages of modern sighting systems, this product seemed like a potential game-changer.
I’ve been wrestling with the challenge of mounting optics on my HK94 for years. Options are either incredibly expensive, require permanent modification to the receiver, or look clunky and out of place. Seeing the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 advertised for a mere $15.99, I figured it was worth a shot – a low-risk gamble to bring my beloved 9mm carbine into the 21st century.
My initial impression upon unboxing (well, unwrapping from the small padded envelope) was one of cautious optimism. The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 is constructed from what appears to be a sturdy polymer. Its lightweight design is a plus, given the already substantial weight of the host firearm. The finish is a basic matte black, which blends reasonably well with the factory finish on my HK94.
Compared to other optic mounting solutions, the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 stands out primarily due to its simplicity and price. Other options often involve complex clamping mechanisms or permanent modifications. While those solutions may offer greater rigidity, they also come with a significantly higher price tag. I chose this mount hoping to achieve a balance between functionality and affordability.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and trepidation. The low price point made me skeptical about its long-term durability, but the potential for a simple, effective optic mounting solution was undeniable. Only real-world testing would reveal its true worth.
Real-World Testing: Putting HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 was at my local indoor shooting range. I mounted it on my HK94 clone and attached a Sig Sauer Romeo5 red dot optic. Installation was remarkably easy, taking less than a minute – a far cry from the horror stories I’d heard about fitting some of the more complex mounts.
The performance was surprisingly good. Even after firing a couple hundred rounds of 9mm, the mount remained securely in place. I experienced no noticeable shift in zero. The conditions were ideal – dry, controlled lighting – so I didn’t encounter any immediate environmental challenges.
The ease of use was a major selling point. No special tools were required for installation, and the mount provided a solid platform for the optic. The only initial surprise was how low the optic sat relative to the bore axis, requiring a significant adjustment to zero the red dot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a few hundred more rounds, the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the mount remains securely attached to the receiver. It’s still too early to definitively assess its long-term durability, but so far, I’m impressed.
Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any powder residue or grime. Compared to some of the more intricate mounts I’ve used in the past, the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 is refreshingly simple to clean and maintain.
In terms of performance, it has definitely exceeded my expectations, especially considering the price. It offers a stable and reliable mounting platform for my red dot, transforming my HK94 into a more versatile and accurate firearm. It far outperforms some of the less-expensive claw-mount options I tried years ago, which would frequently shift under recoil.
Breaking Down the Features of HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2
Specifications
The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 is designed specifically for the HK® MP5, CETME, and 90 series of long guns. It provides a Picatinny rail (also known as a 1913 rail) for mounting optics and accessories. The mount is constructed from a durable polymer material, keeping it lightweight and resistant to corrosion.
- Material: Polymer
- Rail Type: Picatinny (1913)
- Compatibility: HK MP5, CETME, HK 90 Series
- Installation: Simple, tool-less design
- Price: $15.99
These specifications are important because they directly impact the mount’s suitability for its intended purpose. The polymer construction keeps the weight down, preventing the firearm from becoming unnecessarily heavy. The Picatinny rail provides a standardized platform for attaching a wide range of optics and accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 performs its primary function – providing a stable mounting platform for optics – admirably. The mount remains securely attached to the firearm, even under sustained fire. This allows for consistent accuracy and reliable performance.
The mount’s strengths lie in its simplicity, ease of installation, and low price. Its primary weakness is that, being polymer, it may not be as rigid as a metal mount, potentially impacting extreme long-range accuracy (although this is unlikely to be an issue for most users of these firearms). It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly optic mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 features a minimalist design that blends reasonably well with the aesthetics of the host firearm. The polymer construction keeps the weight down, enhancing the overall handling of the firearm. The mount is relatively unobtrusive, and doesn’t interfere with the operation of the firearm.
Installation is incredibly user-friendly. It requires no special tools and can be completed in seconds. There is virtually no learning curve associated with this product.
Durability & Maintenance
While it is constructed from polymer, the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 seems reasonably durable. It has held up well to several range trips and shows no signs of cracking or deformation. Long-term durability remains to be seen, but it appears to be a well-made product.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that is needed to keep the mount clean and functioning properly. The polymer material is resistant to corrosion and doesn’t require any special cleaning or maintenance procedures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 itself doesn’t come with any accessories, as it is designed to be an accessory mounting platform. It is compatible with any optic or accessory that utilizes a standard Picatinny rail. This includes a wide range of red dot sights, scopes, lasers, and other tactical accessories.
The mount’s low profile and minimalist design allow for a wide range of optic choices. There are no inherent limitations on the type of optic that can be used, provided it is compatible with a Picatinny rail.
Pros and Cons of HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2
Pros
- Inexpensive: At $15.99, it’s an incredibly affordable way to mount optics.
- Easy installation: Simple tool-less installation takes less than a minute.
- Lightweight: Polymer construction keeps the firearm light and maneuverable.
- Compatible: Works with any Picatinny rail-mounted optic or accessory.
- Surprisingly durable: Holds up well to repeated firing and normal use.
Cons
- Polymer Construction: May not be as rigid as a metal mount.
- Low Profile: May require higher rings or a riser for optimal optic height.
Who Should Buy HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2?
The HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 is perfect for HK MP5, CETME, and 90 series owners who want to add a modern optic without breaking the bank or permanently modifying their firearm. It’s also a great option for casual shooters and recreational enthusiasts who want a simple, reliable, and affordable mounting solution.
This product may not be ideal for serious competitive shooters or those who demand the absolute highest level of rigidity and precision from their optic mounts. Individuals who prefer metal mounts or those who plan to use very heavy optics may also want to consider alternative options.
A must-have accessory is a quality red dot sight or optic that fits your shooting needs and budget. Depending on your preference, you might also need a riser to achieve a comfortable cheek weld and optimal sight alignment.
Conclusion on HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2
Overall, the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 is an excellent value for the money. It offers a simple, affordable, and surprisingly effective way to mount optics on classic HK-pattern firearms. While it may not be the most robust or high-tech option on the market, it gets the job done at a fraction of the cost of competing products.
The price is definitely justified. For $15.99, you get a functional and reliable optic mount that transforms the capabilities of your firearm.
I would absolutely recommend the HK 1913 Rail Mount/Gen2 to anyone looking for a budget-friendly optic mounting solution for their HK MP5, CETME, or 90 series long gun. Give it a try – you might be surprised at how well it performs!