The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless optic mounting solutions come and go. The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount, however, immediately stood out due to its promise of minimizing rear offset and maximizing adaptability on shorter platforms. This piqued my interest, as I’m always searching for ways to optimize weapon setups for varying operational needs.
My interest in the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount arose from a recurring problem: effectively mounting thermal optics on short-barreled rifles (SBRs) without excessive rearward extension. Often, this leads to an unbalanced feel and awkward cheek weld. The promise of significantly reduced rear offset, particularly in clip-on mode, suggested a potential solution to this persistent challenge.
Upon unboxing, the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount assembly felt solid and well-machined. The anodized finish was clean, and the individual components fit together precisely. It was clear that iRayUSA paid attention to the details, giving me confidence in its potential performance.
I considered other mounting solutions from companies like LaRue Tactical and American Defense Manufacturing (ADM), but the iRayUSA offering presented a unique combination of adjustable footprint and minimal offset. The ADM MQD interface specifically designed to work with the provided PICTAIL shoe was the differentiating factor. I chose the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount because I wanted to explore its potential for optimizing thermal optic placement on compact weapon systems.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality and design features were encouraging, but the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype of minimizing rear offset and offering true adaptability.
Real-World Testing: Putting iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount took place at my private shooting range. I mounted it on an 11.5″ AR-15 SBR, paired with a clip-on thermal optic. I wanted to evaluate its performance in a realistic shooting scenario.
The mount performed admirably under varying conditions. I tested it in dry and slightly dusty conditions, simulating typical field use. There were no issues with loosening or shifting during the testing period.
The installation was straightforward, although some familiarization with the adjustable footprint was required. Once adjusted, it provided a solid and repeatable mounting solution. I didn’t experience any immediate issues, but the real test of durability would be over time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount has proven to be a reliable performer. It remains securely attached and shows no signs of loosening, even after hundreds of rounds fired. The finish has held up well, with only minor scuffs from normal handling.
The mount’s durability has exceeded my expectations. There have been no signs of mechanical failure or significant wear and tear. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and solvent keeps it in excellent working order.
Compared to previous experiences with other QD mounts that often required re-tightening, the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount has been rock solid. It has provided a dependable and stable platform for my thermal optic, outperforming some other QD mounts I have used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount
Specifications
- The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount features a MIL-STD-1913 picatinny rail interface. This interfaces directly with the ADM MQD mount.
- It is designed to offer an adjustable footprint on any standard picatinny rail. This allows for customized optic placement.
- In standalone optic mode, it provides over 4.5 inches of rear offset. This offers flexibility for various shooting styles and equipment configurations.
- When reversed for clip-on use, it shrinks the rear offset to just 1.5 inches. This allows for optimal use on shorter platforms like SBRs and pistols.
- In clip-on mode, it requires only 4 rail slots in front of the day optic. This makes it suitable for compact setups.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the adaptability and balance of the weapon system. The ability to minimize rear offset, especially with clip-on thermal optics, is a significant advantage, improving handling and reducing shooter fatigue. The adjustable footprint allows for precise placement, optimizing eye relief and overall shooting comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a stable and repeatable mounting platform for optics. The quick detach (QD) mechanism is robust and reliable, allowing for rapid optic changes without loss of zero.
The mount’s strengths lie in its adaptability and minimal offset design. Its only weakness is the initial setup, which can be a bit fiddly until you understand the adjustment mechanism. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount boasts a robust build quality. It utilizes high-quality materials, resulting in a lightweight yet durable design. The mount feels solid in hand and provides a secure platform for the optic.
It’s user-friendly, although understanding the adjustable footprint mechanism may require some initial effort. The QD lever is easily accessible and operates smoothly. There is a slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with this style of mounting system.
Durability & Maintenance
The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount is built to last. The anodized aluminum construction resists corrosion and wear. Simple cleaning with a brush and solvent is typically all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
Maintaining and repairing the mount is relatively straightforward. The design is simple, and replacement parts, if ever needed, are likely to be readily available. The mount’s robust construction ensures a long service life under normal usage conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount comes with the PICTAIL shoe, designed to interface with the ADM MQD mount. There are no included accessories beyond this. However, it is compatible with a wide range of MIL-STD-1913 picatinny rail-mounted optics.
The mount’s compatibility with standard picatinny rails means it can be used with various optics, thermal imagers, and other accessories from different brands. The adaptability makes it a versatile addition to any tactical setup. The key is to ensure the chosen optic is compatible with the available mounting space and eye relief requirements.
Pros and Cons of iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount
Pros
- Minimizes rear offset, especially in clip-on mode, improving weapon balance.
- Adjustable footprint allows for customized optic placement and optimal eye relief.
- Robust QD mechanism provides secure and repeatable optic mounting.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance under demanding conditions.
- Versatile compatibility with a wide range of picatinny rail-mounted optics.
Cons
- Initial setup can be slightly complex until familiar with the adjustment mechanism.
- The price point of $199.00 might be a deterrent for budget-conscious users.
Who Should Buy iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount?
The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and hunters who utilize thermal or night vision optics on SBRs or pistols. It is also excellent for those who need a flexible mounting solution that minimizes rear offset and allows for precise optic placement.
This product may not be ideal for recreational shooters who primarily use standard-length rifles and do not require the unique features offered by this mount. Shooters on a very tight budget might also want to explore less expensive, albeit less adaptable, mounting options.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality thermal or night vision optic to fully utilize the mount’s capabilities. A quality set of back-up iron sights is also recommended.
Conclusion on iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount
The iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount is a well-designed and robust mounting solution that delivers on its promise of minimizing rear offset and maximizing adaptability. Its performance in the field has been consistently reliable, and its durability is commendable. The adjustable footprint and QD mechanism make it a versatile addition to any tactical or hunting setup.
The price of $199.00 is justified considering the quality of construction, unique features, and performance benefits. If you need a mounting solution that minimizes rear offset and offers exceptional adaptability, the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount is a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the iRayUSA MICRO MQD Optic Mount to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and reliable mounting solution for their thermal or night vision optics on shorter platforms. Upgrade your setup and experience the difference!