Let’s Dive into Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount
The Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount promises a streamlined solution for attaching vital accessories to your AK platform. This mount, manufactured by Midwest Industries, aims to provide a stable and versatile platform without compromising the AK’s iconic profile or field-stripping capabilities.
For years, I’ve struggled with clunky, ill-fitting mounts that added unnecessary bulk to my AK. I needed a lightweight, low-profile solution that wouldn’t interfere with the rifle’s balance or ease of handling. I was also looking for a mount that could accommodate both a weapon light and a laser aiming device, streamlining my setup.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount was positive. The mount felt solid and well-machined. The anodized finish seemed durable and aesthetically pleasing.
I considered other options, such as the Krebs Custom AK M-LOK Handguard and the RS Regulate BM-1 mount. However, the Midwest Industries offering stood out due to its simplicity, lightweight design, and ability to be reversed for forward or rear offset, offering a versatile mounting solution. I wanted something that was easy to install and allowed me to retain access to the cleaning rod without having to disassemble a complicated mounting system.
My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about potential fitment issues with my particular AK variant. However, the promise of a simple installation and a lifetime warranty gave me confidence. I was eager to see if the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount would live up to its claims and solve my accessory mounting woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount was at an outdoor shooting range in mixed weather conditions – a typical Pacific Northwest day with drizzle and overcast skies. I mounted a Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount 2 weapon light and a Holosun LS321G IR laser/illuminator.
The mount performed admirably, providing a stable and secure platform for both accessories. The light provided excellent illumination in the dim conditions, and the laser held zero throughout several magazines of rapid fire. I was impressed with the minimal added weight.
The mount was surprisingly easy to install, requiring no specialized tools or modifications to my AK. I appreciated that the mount allowed me to retain access to the cleaning rod without removing the optic or mount. There were no immediate issues or surprises, the initial install and functionality testing went off without a hitch.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in various conditions, including a week-long backcountry camping trip with exposure to dust and fluctuating temperatures, the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount continues to perform flawlessly. The mount has remained securely attached to the rifle, and the accessories have maintained their zero.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some minor scuffing on the anodized finish. The mount is easy to clean with a simple wipe-down using a CLP-soaked cloth. I have not observed any loosening of the screws that secure the mount to the AK.
Compared to previous mounting solutions I’ve used, the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount significantly outperforms them in terms of weight, stability, and ease of installation. This mount provides a streamlined and reliable solution for attaching essential accessories to my AK, without sacrificing the rifle’s handling characteristics.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount
Specifications
Manufacturer: Midwest Industries.
Color: Black, providing a low-profile and non-reflective finish.
Finish: Anodized, enhancing durability and corrosion resistance.
Fabric/Material: 6061 Aluminum, balancing strength and weight.
Gun Rail: M-LOK, allowing for direct attachment of compatible accessories.
Gun Type: Rifle, specifically designed for AK platform rifles.
Gun Make: Kalashnikov, ensuring compatibility with AK variants.
Gun Model: AK-74, AK-47, offering versatility across common AK models.
Weight: 1.6 oz, minimizing added weight to the firearm.
Country of Origin: USA, signifying quality manufacturing and materials.
These specifications are critical as they directly impact the mount’s performance and user experience. The lightweight aluminum construction ensures that the mount doesn’t significantly alter the rifle’s balance. The M-LOK compatibility allows for direct attachment of accessories, eliminating the need for bulky Picatinny rail sections.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount excels at providing a stable and secure platform for attaching lights and lasers to an AK. The mount’s low-profile design minimizes interference with the rifle’s handling characteristics.
The primary strength of this mount is its ease of installation and rock-solid stability. A potential weakness is its limited mounting space compared to a full-length handguard. It absolutely meets my expectations of what a light and laser mount should do and how it should perform.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount features a sleek and minimalist design. The use of 6061 aluminum keeps the weight down, while the anodized finish provides a durable and corrosion-resistant surface.
The mount is extremely user-friendly, requiring no gunsmithing or special tools for installation. The M-LOK slots allow for easy attachment and adjustment of accessories. The intuitive design makes it simple to dial in the desired setup.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction and durable finish of the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount suggest that it will last for years with proper care. The mount is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to harsh environments.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a mild solvent and lubrication of the mounting screws. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, making it easy to keep the mount in good condition. This mount feels as if it were built to last a lifetime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount is designed to be compatible with a wide range of M-LOK compatible accessories. This includes weapon lights, lasers, and other tactical equipment.
The mount is also compatible with M-LOK rail sections, allowing users to attach accessories that are not natively M-LOK compatible. The ability to reverse the mount for forward or rear offset provides additional customization options for optimizing accessory placement. With M-LOK, the customization options are nearly endless.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount
Pros
- Lightweight and durable 6061 aluminum construction.
- Easy installation requiring no gunsmithing.
- M-LOK compatible for direct attachment of accessories.
- Can be reversed for forward or rear offset mounting.
- Allows user to still field strip firearm and access cleaning rod.
Cons
- Limited mounting space compared to a full-length handguard.
- May not be compatible with all AK variants without slight modification (very rare).
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount?
The Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount is perfect for AK owners who want a lightweight, stable, and versatile platform for mounting lights and lasers without adding excessive bulk. It is ideal for tactical shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to enhance the functionality of their AK.
This product might not be the best choice for those who require a large amount of rail space for multiple accessories or prefer a traditional Picatinny rail system. Owners of less common AK variants should also verify compatibility before purchasing.
A must-have accessory for this mount is a high-quality M-LOK compatible weapon light. A laser aiming device can also be a valuable addition for low-light or nighttime shooting.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount
The Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount is an excellent addition to any AK rifle. It provides a lightweight, durable, and versatile mounting solution for lights and lasers without compromising the rifle’s handling characteristics or ease of maintenance.
The price of $64.95 is justified given the quality of materials, ease of installation, and enhanced functionality it provides. This mount offers a significant improvement over other mounting solutions I’ve used in the past.
I would highly recommend the Midwest Industries M-LOK AK Light & Laser Mount to any AK owner looking to add lights or lasers to their rifle. It’s a simple, effective, and reliable solution that will enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your AK today and experience the difference!