IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount Review

What Makes IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount Stand Out?

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount promises a simple, robust solution for adding a weapon light to your AR-15 platform. IMI Defense is known for producing practical, no-nonsense tactical accessories, and this mount seems to follow that philosophy. It’s designed for quick attachment to Picatinny rails and accommodates various flashlight sizes, making it a versatile addition to any rifle setup.

I’ve always struggled with finding a light mounting solution that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk or interfere with my grip. Many mounts are overly complicated or require proprietary hardware. I was looking for something low-profile, easy to install, and, most importantly, reliable under stress.

My first impression upon unboxing the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount was its lightweight construction. The fiber-reinforced polymer felt surprisingly sturdy, yet it didn’t add noticeable weight to my rifle. The push-button mechanism seemed intuitive, and the included optional polymer sleeve suggested a good level of adaptability.

Compared to other mounts I’ve used, like the Magpul MOE Illumination Kit and the SureFire M73 Picatinny Rail, the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount stood out for its simplicity and lower profile. The Magpul kit is a good all-in-one solution, but it only works with MOE handguards. The SureFire M73, while incredibly durable, adds considerable weight and bulk. I chose the IMI Defense mount because it seemed like the best balance of functionality and minimal impact on my rifle’s handling.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The polymer construction raised some concerns about durability under heavy use, but the overall design and ease of installation were promising. For the price point of $19.99, the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount had the potential to be an excellent value.

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Real-World Testing: Putting IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount at my local shooting range during a carbine course. The course involved various drills, including rapid target acquisition, transitioning between targets, and shooting from different positions. The mount was subjected to recoil from my AR-15 chambered in 5.56 NATO.

During the session, the weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle, creating slippery conditions. The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount held my Streamlight ProTac HL-X securely, with no noticeable slippage or movement, even with the added moisture. The one-finger push-button operation made it easy to detach and reattach the light as needed during different stages of the course.

I found the mount incredibly easy to use; the intuitive design required virtually no learning curve. It took only a few seconds to attach the mount to the Picatinny rail and tighten the set screw. After initial zeroing with the light attached, the mount maintained consistent accuracy throughout the course.

My initial concern regarding the polymer build eased slightly, as the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount didn’t exhibit any signs of flexing or weakness during the session. I did notice, however, that the polymer sleeve needed some adjustment to fit my Streamlight perfectly, requiring some minor filing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a few overnight tactical training exercises, the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount has held up surprisingly well. I’ve exposed it to a range of conditions, including extreme heat (over 100°F) and moderate cold (around 30°F). It also experienced exposure to rain, mud, and dust.

There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the surface of the polymer, but no significant wear and tear. The mount still attaches securely to the Picatinny rail, and the push-button mechanism functions flawlessly. The high quality fiber-reinforced polymer compound material appears to be more resilient than I initially anticipated.

Cleaning the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the push-button mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous experiences with metal mounts, the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount offers a significant weight advantage. While metal mounts are undoubtedly more durable, the added weight can become fatiguing during extended use. For my needs, the IMI Defense mount strikes a good balance between weight, durability, and affordability.

Breaking Down the Features of IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount

Specifications

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount is specifically designed for rifles, particularly AR-15 platforms, featuring a Picatinny rail system. It is constructed from a high quality fiber-reinforced polymer compound material. It has a quick-attach and detach mechanism for Picatinny rails.

The mount operates with one finger push-button operation. It has easy access to the flashlight, and includes an optional polymer sleeve for easy modification to fit a 0.75″ flashlight. These specifications are important because they affect the mount’s compatibility with various weapon platforms, its weight, and ease of use in tactical situations.

Performance & Functionality

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount performs its primary function of securely holding a weapon light exceptionally well. The light remains firmly in place even under heavy recoil, ensuring consistent illumination when needed. The quick attaches and detaches to Picatinny rails allows for rapid adjustments in the field.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity, lightweight design, and ease of use. A potential area for improvement is the polymer sleeve, which may require slight modification to fit certain flashlights perfectly. The mount meets my expectations for a basic, reliable weapon light mount at an affordable price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount features a low-profile design that minimizes bulk and weight on the rifle. The polymer construction is lightweight and comfortable in hand, contributing to overall weapon handling. The push-button mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloved hands.

The design is inherently user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. There is no significant learning curve; even a novice shooter can easily install and use the mount. The ergonomic design is also evident in the ease with which you can manipulate the flashlight while keeping your firing hand on the weapon.

Durability & Maintenance

While the polymer construction may not be as inherently durable as metal, the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount has proven to be surprisingly resilient. With reasonable care and maintenance, it should last for several years of regular use. The fiber-reinforced polymer is resistant to cracking and deformation under normal operating conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. No specialized tools or repair skills are necessary to keep the mount in good working order. Its simple design also contributes to its longevity, as there are fewer parts that can break or wear out.

Accessories and Customization Options

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount includes an optional polymer sleeve that allows it to accommodate flashlights with a 0.75″ diameter. Beyond this, there are no other included accessories. This mount is primarily designed to be a standalone light mounting solution, and not necessarily for integration with a complex accessory system.

The mount is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail, allowing it to be used with a wide range of AR-15 handguards and other weapon platforms. It is also compatible with most common weapon lights, provided they are within the acceptable diameter range. However, it does not offer any specific provisions for mounting other accessories, such as lasers or sling attachments.

Pros and Cons of IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount

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Who Should Buy IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount?

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount is perfect for recreational shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and budget-conscious tactical operators who need a simple, reliable, and lightweight weapon light mounting solution. It is ideal for AR-15 owners looking for a low-profile way to attach a flashlight without adding unnecessary weight or complexity to their rifle. It is also a great choice for shooters who prioritize ease of use and quick adjustments in the field.

This product might not be suitable for professional military or law enforcement personnel who require the absolute highest level of durability and reliability in extreme conditions. Shooters who plan to mount multiple accessories alongside their weapon light may also prefer a more comprehensive rail system.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality weapon light, such as the Streamlight ProTac HL-X or SureFire Scout Light, to pair with the mount.

Conclusion on IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount

The IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount offers an excellent balance of functionality, affordability, and ease of use. While the polymer construction may not be as bombproof as metal alternatives, it provides sufficient durability for most civilian applications while significantly reducing weight. The simple push-button mechanism and versatile compatibility make it a great choice for a wide range of shooters.

At a price of $19.99, the value proposition is undeniable. You get a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-use weapon light mount that performs its primary function exceptionally well. The price is definitely justified.

I would personally recommend the IMI Defense Tactical Side Light Mount to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, no-nonsense way to add a weapon light to their AR-15. It is a solid product. Equip your rifle with this practical mount and experience enhanced visibility and control in any tactical situation.