First Thoughts on the Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized
Optics are critical for effective shooting, and a quality mount is essential for accuracy. I’ve seen too many rifles with expensive scopes rendered useless by flimsy, unreliable mounts. The Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized promises a robust, stable platform for AR-platform rifles, specifically addressing the need for proper eye relief with its forward offset design.
For years, I’ve struggled with achieving the perfect eye relief on my AR-15. Traditional scope mounts often leave me craning my neck or awkwardly adjusting my stance. I was looking for a mount that not only provided a rock-solid attachment but also allowed for flexible scope positioning to achieve optimal eye relief and a comfortable cheek weld.
My initial impressions of the Midwest Industries mount were positive. The black hardcoat anodized finish looked clean and durable, and the overall construction felt solid and well-made. It appeared significantly more robust than some of the cheaper, imported mounts I’ve encountered.
Compared to a standard Picatinny rail mount and a cantilever mount from another manufacturer, the Midwest Industries option stood out for its one-piece design and dual steel locking lugs. I chose it for its promise of superior stability and its ability to maintain zero under demanding conditions. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential for finally achieving consistent accuracy with my scoped AR.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Midwest Industries mount at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on evaluating its ability to hold zero during rapid firing strings. The weather was sunny, but a slight breeze added a minor challenge to the long-range shots. Installation was straightforward and the mount felt secure on the Picatinny rail.
The mount performed flawlessly, maintaining a consistent zero throughout the session. I found the forward offset design allowed me to achieve perfect eye relief, improving my shooting comfort and accuracy. There were no unexpected issues or surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries mount has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has withstood the recoil of hundreds of rounds, maintaining a rock-solid hold on my scope. I have also used it during several tactical training sessions involving movement and transitions.
The finish shows minimal signs of wear, indicating its durability. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. Compared to other mounts I’ve used, this Midwest Industries mount delivers significantly better performance, particularly in maintaining zero and resisting movement under stress.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized
Specifications
- Made in USA: This signifies a commitment to quality and potentially better quality control. I appreciate knowing that this component was manufactured to higher standards.
- Gen 2 Scope Mount: Indicates an evolution of the design, likely incorporating improvements based on user feedback and Midwest Industries‘ own testing. This implies refinements over previous versions.
- AR-Platform: Specifically designed for AR-style rifles, ensuring proper fit and compatibility. This is crucial for achieving optimal performance.
- 30mm: This indicates the diameter of the scope tube that the mount is designed to accommodate. Make sure your scope tube diameter matches.
- Black Hardcoat Anodized Finish: Provides a durable, corrosion-resistant finish. This is essential for protecting the mount from the elements and wear.
- Forward Offset Design: Positions the scope further forward, providing proper eye relief for AR platforms. This solves the common problem of short rails and long scopes.
- 6061 Aluminum Construction: Offers a lightweight yet strong platform for the scope. This balances durability and weight.
- One-Piece Long Clamp Bar: Provides increased clamping force and stability. This helps ensure the scope remains securely mounted.
- Dual Steel Locking Lugs: Provides a rock-solid attachment to the Picatinny rail. This is crucial for maintaining zero under recoil.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the mount’s overall stability, durability, and user-friendliness. The quality materials and thoughtful design ensure the scope stays securely mounted, leading to improved accuracy and confidence. The forward offset is particularly crucial for AR platforms where proper eye relief can be challenging to achieve.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized excels in its primary role: providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting a scope on an AR-platform rifle. The mount’s solid construction and secure attachment to the Picatinny rail ensure that the scope remains firmly in place, even under heavy recoil. This directly translates to improved accuracy and consistency when shooting.
The forward offset design is a significant strength, allowing for a comfortable and natural shooting position. The mount meets and exceeds expectations. The secure fit, reliable zero retention, and durable construction make it an outstanding choice for any AR owner looking to mount a 30mm scope.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Midwest Industries mount is exceptional. The 6061 aluminum construction feels robust yet lightweight, and the black hardcoat anodized finish is both aesthetically pleasing and highly durable. The weight is well-balanced, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.
The mount is exceptionally user-friendly with no significant learning curve. The one-piece design and straightforward clamping mechanism make installation quick and easy. The forward offset provides a noticeable improvement in ergonomics, allowing for a more natural and comfortable shooting position.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and durable finish, the Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized is built to last. I expect it to withstand years of use and abuse without any significant degradation in performance. The hardcoat anodized finish is highly resistant to scratches, corrosion, and other forms of wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is typically sufficient to keep the mount in excellent condition. The simple design ensures that there are no small parts that could easily break or require frequent replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mount itself doesn’t come with accessories but its Picatinny rail interface is compatible with a wide range of scopes designed for 30mm tubes. There are no specific customization options available for the mount itself.
The Midwest Industries mount is designed to be universally compatible with any AR-platform rifle featuring a standard Picatinny rail. Its 30mm scope tube interface makes it compatible with a vast selection of scopes from various brands. This versatility makes it a great choice for any AR owner looking to mount a high-quality optic.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized
Pros
- Rock-solid stability ensures consistent zero retention, improving accuracy.
- Forward offset design allows for optimal eye relief on AR platforms.
- Durable 6061 aluminum construction with hardcoat anodized finish for long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation thanks to the one-piece design and straightforward clamping mechanism.
- Made in the USA with high quality materials.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to some imported mounts.
- The forward offset might not be ideal for all scope/rail configurations.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized?
The Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized is perfect for AR-platform rifle owners who demand reliability and accuracy from their optics. It is particularly well-suited for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and hunters who require a stable and repeatable mounting platform. Anyone struggling with achieving proper eye relief on their AR will appreciate the forward offset design.
Those on a very tight budget might consider less expensive options, though they should be aware of the potential compromises in quality and durability. Users with non-standard rail configurations or extremely long-range scopes might need to explore other mounting solutions to ensure proper fit and adjustability. A quality scope and bubble level are must-have accessories to get the most out of this mount.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized
The Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a reliable and accurate scope mounting solution for their AR-platform rifle. Its solid construction, forward offset design, and exceptional stability make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, the precision engineering, and the performance benefits it provides. I would wholeheartedly recommend this mount to anyone looking to upgrade their AR and improve their shooting accuracy. If you value quality, durability, and consistent performance, then invest in the Midwest Industries Gen 2 Scope Mount AR-Platform 30mm Black Hardcoat Anodized. You won’t be disappointed.