The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II Made a Bold First Impression
The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II promised a streamlined and protected optic mounting solution for my AR platform. The advertised co-witness capability and integrated battery storage seemed like thoughtful additions. This mount aimed to elevate the functionality of my Burris FastFire red dot, but the initial experience left me questioning its true value.
I was seeking a more robust and reliable mounting system for my FastFire II. My previous setup, a low-profile Picatinny rail adapter, felt flimsy and lacked any protection for the optic. The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II was chosen to provide both a more secure and protected platform.
Upon unboxing, the mount felt solid, constructed from what seemed to be sturdy aluminum. The weight was noticeable, adding a bit of heft to the rifle, though not excessively so. The black anodized finish appeared durable, giving the impression of quality.
Compared to a simple riser mount or a low-profile adapter, the Burris mount offered a significant upgrade in perceived robustness. Other mounts I considered lacked the integrated battery compartment and protective shroud. The promise of co-witnessing with iron sights sealed the deal, theoretically offering a functional backup.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism quickly followed by frustration. The design appeared well-thought-out, but the short screws, as highlighted by other users, immediately cast a shadow on the entire experience. The promise of a quick and easy upgrade soon devolved into a troubleshooting mission.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my local shooting range. I intended to zero the FastFire II with the new mount and assess its co-witnessing capabilities. Mounting the FastFire proved problematic from the start due to the aforementioned short screws.
The short screws made initial setup impossible, halting all testing. Once longer screws were acquired, I finally managed to secure the optic. The co-witness was functional, placing the red dot in the lower third of the iron sight picture.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions, the Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II has held zero adequately. There are no signs of loosening or shifting. However, the stripped screw hole, a consequence of the initial short screw issue, remains a nagging concern.
The anodized finish has proven reasonably durable, with only minor scratches from handling and range use. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth. The experience overall has been marred by the initial mounting issue and ongoing concern with the compromised screw hole.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II
Specifications
- The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II is designed specifically for Burris FastFire I & II red dot sights. It does not fit the FastFire III or other optics without modification.
- It mounts to any Weaver or Picatinny-style rail. This allows for broad compatibility with most AR-15 flattop receivers.
- The mount is constructed from aluminum with a black anodized finish. This provides a balance of strength and weight.
- The mount features an integrated battery compartment. This allows for convenient storage of a spare battery.
- It is designed for co-witnessing with standard AR-15 iron sights. This means the red dot and iron sights align, providing a backup aiming solution.
These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility, durability, and functionality of the mount. The co-witness feature and battery compartment are intended to enhance the user’s shooting experience and preparedness.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II performs its primary function of securing the optic adequately, but the initial mounting issues are a significant drawback. Once properly installed, the mount holds zero and provides a stable platform for the FastFire II. The co-witness feature is functional and allows for rapid transitions to iron sights if necessary.
The mount’s strengths lie in its robust construction and integrated features. The weakness, however, is the reported issue of short screws, which can lead to stripped screw holes and significant frustration. While it meets the basic expectation of mounting the optic, it falls short in terms of user-friendliness due to the initial installation problems.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality appears solid, with the aluminum construction providing a sturdy feel. The weight is acceptable. The mount adds some heft but does not significantly impact the overall balance of the rifle.
The design is generally user-friendly, with a straightforward mounting process assuming correctly sized screws are provided. The integrated battery compartment is a welcome addition, although the small size may limit battery options. The learning curve is minimal, but the initial screw issue creates an unnecessary barrier.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and anodized finish suggest reasonable durability. With proper care, the mount should last for years. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection of screws.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II does not come with many accessories. It includes only the necessary mounting screws (although, as noted, they may be the wrong size) and wrenches. The primary customization option is the choice of optic, limited to the Burris FastFire I & II.
The mount is compatible with any AR-15 platform that has a Weaver or Picatinny-style rail. This makes it broadly compatible with a wide range of rifles. Aftermarket screws may be needed in case of damage or loss, but otherwise, customization options are limited.
Pros and Cons of Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II
Pros
- Robust aluminum construction offers solid durability.
- Integrated battery compartment provides convenient storage.
- Co-witness functionality allows for quick transition to iron sights.
- Easy to clean with minimal maintenance required.
- Securely mounts FastFire I & II optics (with correct screws).
Cons
- Potential for stripped screw holes due to reported short screw issue.
- Limited compatibility as it only fits FastFire I & II optics.
- Adds noticeable weight to the rifle.
Who Should Buy Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II?
The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II is perfect for AR-15 owners looking for a robust, co-witnessing mount for their Burris FastFire I or II red dot sight, assuming they are willing to verify or replace the mounting screws. It benefits those who value having a spare battery readily available.
Those who should skip this product include anyone using a FastFire III or other red dot sight. Also, those unwilling to potentially deal with the short screw issue should avoid this mount. Those highly concerned about weight savings might also consider lighter alternatives.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A set of high-quality, correctly sized screws is essential to prevent stripping the screw holes. A thread locker, such as Loctite, is recommended to ensure the screws remain secure.
Conclusion on Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II
The Burris Flattop FastFire Mount Burris Fastfire I & II offers a mixed bag of features and potential pitfalls. While the design is solid and the integrated features are appealing, the recurring issue with short screws undermines the overall value proposition. The mount provides a robust and co-witnessing platform for the FastFire I & II, but the initial installation hurdles cannot be ignored.
The price of $81.99 is difficult to justify given the potential need to purchase replacement screws and the risk of damaging the mount during installation. While the features are desirable, the execution falls short of expectations.
Personally, I would hesitate to recommend this product without a strong caveat about the potential screw issue. While it can be a functional mount, the risk and frustration associated with the initial setup make it a questionable purchase. Consider alternative mounting solutions until Burris definitively addresses the reported screw length issue.