Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount Review

Let’s Dive into Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount is a robust and intelligently designed platform for mounting optics on Yugo pattern AK rifles. Crafted by Midwest Industries, this mount promises a stable and repeatable zero, essential for any serious shooter looking to enhance their AK’s capabilities. This mount seemed like the perfect solution to modernize my Zastava M70.

I’ve always struggled with finding a reliable optic mounting solution for my AK. I needed something rock solid that wouldn’t drift after a few magazines. Unboxing the Midwest Industries mount, I was immediately impressed by the heft and feel of the hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum. The finish was smooth and even, indicating excellent machining quality.

I’ve tried a few other AK side mounts in the past, including a cheaper, stamped steel option and a bulkier, railed gas tube. The stamped steel mount wiggled loose constantly, and the gas tube mount heated up excessively, affecting accuracy. The Midwest Industries mount stood out for its promise of a no-tool QD system and repeat zero locking. My initial reaction was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, hoping this would finally be the AK optic mount I’d been searching for.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount at my local shooting range, specifically on a bright, sunny afternoon. The range offered a variety of distances, allowing me to test the mount’s ability to maintain zero at 25, 50, and 100 yards. I also ran a few drills, simulating rapid target engagement, to check for any shift in the optic due to recoil or vibration.

The mount performed flawlessly in these conditions. Installation was a breeze, requiring no tools beyond a simple push to lock it onto the side rail. The ease of use was a pleasant surprise, as I anticipated needing some fiddling to achieve a secure fit. After zeroing my optic, a Sig Romeo5, I experienced no issues with wandering zero, even after firing several hundred rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount continues to hold up remarkably well. I’ve put it through its paces in various conditions, from dusty range days to slightly damp and chilly mornings. So far, there are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The anodized finish has proven to be durable, resisting scratches and scuffs. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. Compared to previous mounts I’ve used, this Midwest Industries mount significantly outperforms them in terms of stability and reliability. I am pleased to report there are zero disappointments.

Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount

Specifications

• The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount is crafted from 6061 Aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet strong platform. The aluminum keeps the weight down without sacrificing durability.
• It features a hard coat anodized finish for enhanced resistance to wear and corrosion. This finish is crucial for protecting the mount in harsh environments.
• The mount is specifically designed for AK-47 and AK-74 rifles with a built-in AK receiver rail interface. This ensures a secure and precise fit.
• The rail measures 6.75 inches in length, providing ample space for mounting various optics. A generous rail length accommodates different optic sizes and placement preferences.
• It weighs in at 7.3 oz, which is lightweight enough to not significantly alter the rifle’s balance. This keeps the rifle maneuverable.
• It features a Picatinny attachment type, offering compatibility with a wide range of optics and accessories. This standard interface makes it easy to find compatible accessories.

Performance & Functionality

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount excels in providing a stable and repeatable platform for optics. It does its job perfectly. The patented Elite Defense QD system allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment without tools, and more importantly, the repeat zero locking mechanism ensures that your optic returns to zero every time.

One minor weakness is that the rail could sit a little lower to the top cover, as noted by some users. However, the overall performance far exceeds this minor aesthetic concern. It meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering on its promise of stability and ease of use.

Design & Ergonomics

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount boasts a sleek and functional design. Its build quality is top-notch, with precise machining and a durable finish. The weight is well-balanced, and it doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome on the rifle.

The mount is incredibly user-friendly. The no-tool QD system makes installation and removal a breeze, and there is no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount is built to last. Its robust construction and durable finish ensure it can withstand the rigors of regular use. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

The mount appears to be easy to maintain and repair, although I haven’t needed to repair it yet. The simple design and high-quality materials suggest it will have a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of Picatinny-compatible optics. This includes red dot sights, scopes, and magnifiers. The mount is compatible with most popular accessories from brands like Aimpoint, EOTech, and Trijicon.

Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount

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Who Should Buy Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount?

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount is perfect for AK enthusiasts, tactical shooters, and hunters looking for a reliable and repeatable optic mounting solution. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to modernize their Yugo pattern AK and improve its accuracy. Anyone who wants to attach an optic confidently to their rifle should consider this.

This product might not be necessary for casual shooters who rarely use optics or for those on a very tight budget. However, the investment is well worth it for serious users. A must-have accessory is a quality Picatinny-compatible optic such as a red dot sight or a low-power variable optic (LPVO).

Conclusion on Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount

The Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises of stability, ease of use, and durability. It transforms the usability of any AK with a side rail. Its rock-solid construction, no-tool QD system, and repeat zero locking mechanism make it a standout choice in the crowded market of AK optic mounts.

While the price may be a bit higher than some alternatives, the value proposition is clear. The improved accuracy, reliability, and convenience are well worth the investment. I would wholeheartedly recommend this mount to anyone looking to upgrade their AK. If you’re tired of wobbly mounts and wandering zeros, pull the trigger on the Midwest Industries AK YUGO Side Railed Scope Mount. You won’t be disappointed.