First Impressions of JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount
The AK platform, while renowned for its reliability and ruggedness, has always presented a challenge when it comes to mounting optics. Traditional side rails are often offset, and dust cover mounts can be unreliable. The JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount promises to solve these issues by integrating directly with their MMS handguard system, offering a stable and co-witness capable platform for red dots and other optics.
I needed a rock-solid optic mounting solution for my AKM build. I wanted something that would allow me to easily co-witness my iron sights and not shift zero after extended use. I was looking for an AKM optic mount for a red dot, so I needed something that sat as low as possible.
Upon unboxing, the JMac Customs mount immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The black anodized finish on the 7075-T6 aluminum looked flawless. The mount felt surprisingly lightweight, given its apparent strength.
Compared to a traditional side rail mount and a dust cover replacement mount, the JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount stood out for its streamlined design and potential for a lower profile. I chose it because of its promise of co-witnessing iron sights and direct integration with the MMS handguard, which I already trusted on another AK build. My initial impression was excitement, driven by the hope that this mount would finally provide the stable and reliable optic platform I’d been searching for on my AKM.
Real-World Testing: Putting JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount at my local shooting range. I paired it with an EOTech EXPS2, which the product description specifically mentions. The installation was straightforward, thanks to the provided screws and the existing MMS handguard system.
The mount performed admirably throughout my first range session. Zero held firm, even after several hundred rounds of 7.62×39. The co-witnessing feature with the factory AKM iron sights was spot-on, just as advertised.
The only minor issue I encountered was ensuring the correct torque on the mounting screws. Too much torque can damage the aluminum, and too little can cause it to loosen over time. I was surprised by how perfectly the EOTech EXPS co-witnessed, giving me an immediate backup sighting system.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount has proven to be a reliable and durable optic mounting solution. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, even after enduring multiple range sessions and a particularly dusty weekend training course. The hardcoat anodized finish shows minimal wear, with only a few minor scratches near the mounting screws.
Cleaning the mount is simple, usually just requiring a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. The mount continues to provide a stable and consistent platform for my EOTech. It has exceeded my expectations by maintaining zero consistently, a stark contrast to other AK optic mounts I’ve used in the past that required frequent adjustments.
Breaking Down the Features of JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount
Specifications
The JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount is precisely engineered for optimal performance. It’s constructed from 7075-T6 aluminum for exceptional strength and weighs in at just 2.7 ounces. The footprint follows the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail standard, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of optics.
The black anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. The 5-slot Picatinny rail offers enough space for most common red dot sights and other compact optics. The compatibility with AKM pattern iron sights is a crucial feature, allowing for co-witnessing and providing a backup sighting system in case the optic fails.
These specifications are significant because they contribute to the mount’s overall reliability and usability. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the rifle, preserving its handling characteristics. The robust aluminum construction ensures the mount can withstand the rigors of regular use and harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount excels at providing a stable and repeatable platform for optics on AKM pattern rifles. Its direct attachment to the MMS handguard system eliminates the potential for movement or loosening that can plague other mounting solutions. The co-witnessing capability with factory iron sights is a significant advantage, offering a fast and reliable backup sighting option.
The only potential weakness lies in its compatibility restrictions. It requires the JMac Customs MMS handguard system and is incompatible with Yugo (Zastava) pattern firearms or any firearm using a hinged dust cover. The mount perfectly meets my needs, providing a stable and low-profile mounting solution that maintains zero consistently.
Design & Ergonomics
The JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount features a simple, yet effective design. Its low profile minimizes interference with the rifle’s handling characteristics. The mount is constructed from lightweight aluminum, so it doesn’t significantly increase the overall weight of the firearm.
The installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time. The low-profile design and light weight enhance the rifle’s ergonomics, making it more comfortable to handle and shoot.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075-T6 aluminum construction and hardcoat anodized finish contribute to the mount’s exceptional durability. It’s designed to withstand the stresses of regular use and harsh environmental conditions. The mount is relatively simple in design, so there are few parts that could potentially fail or require repair.
Maintenance is minimal, typically only requiring a quick wipe-down to remove dirt and debris. With proper care, the JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount is primarily designed as a mounting platform for optics. It does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware.
It is compatible with any optic that utilizes a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny base, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and low-power variable optics (LPVOs). The five slots on the rail provide limited adjustability in terms of optic placement. It is designed to work seamlessly with the JMac Customs MMS handguard system, which offers its own set of customization options.
Pros and Cons of JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount
Pros
- Rock-solid optic mounting platform: Provides a stable and repeatable zero for mounted optics.
- Co-witnesses with factory iron sights: Offers a fast and reliable backup sighting system.
- Lightweight design: Minimizes added weight to the rifle.
- Durable construction: Made from 7075-T6 aluminum with a hardcoat anodized finish.
- Easy installation: Installs quickly and easily with basic tools.
Cons
- Incompatible with Yugo/Zastava AKs and hinged dust covers.
- Requires the JMac Customs MMS handguard system.
Who Should Buy JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount?
This mount is perfect for AKM owners who are looking for a reliable and stable optic mounting solution. It’s ideal for shooters who want to co-witness their iron sights and maintain a low-profile setup. Those who already have or are willing to invest in the JMac Customs MMS handguard system will benefit most from this mount.
This product should be skipped by those with Yugo/Zastava AK variants or those using hinged dust covers. If you’re not interested in investing in the JMac Customs MMS handguard system, then this mount is not the right choice for you. A must-have accessory is a medium strength threadlocker for secure installation.
Conclusion on JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount
The JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount is an excellent investment for AKM owners seeking a superior optic mounting solution. It delivers on its promises of stability, co-witnessing, and durability. The price of $134.95 is justified by the quality of construction and the performance benefits it provides.
I would personally recommend this mount to anyone looking to improve the accuracy and usability of their AKM pattern rifle. If you’re tired of unreliable optic mounts that shift zero or add unnecessary bulk to your rifle, then the JMac Customs MMS 1913 5 Slot AKM Optic Mount is the answer. Upgrade your AKM today and experience the difference a quality optic mount can make!