Let’s Dive into Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1
The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 is an interesting piece of hardware designed to bridge the gap between traditional iron sights and the enhanced accuracy of a scope or red dot on AR-platform rifles with carry handles. Specifically designed for AR15/M16/M4 variants, this mount promises a solid, low-profile optic mounting solution without sacrificing the ability to use iron sights. It is manufactured by Aimtech. This is accomplished by elevating the optic sufficiently to provide a clear sight picture underneath the mounted optic, through a channel in the mount itself.
I was looking for a way to add an optic to my older AR-15 without completely abandoning the classic carry handle look and feel. My biggest concern was finding a mount that would allow me to co-witness or at least have usable iron sights as a backup in case of optic failure, without requiring significant modifications to the rifle itself. The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 seemed like a good solution.
Out of the box, the Aimtech mount felt solid and well-made. The satin black finish looked professional, and the aluminum construction felt robust without adding excessive weight to the rifle. The “see-through” channel appeared large enough to actually use the iron sights, which was a pleasant surprise.
I considered other options, like the UTG Carry Handle Mount and some cheaper generic see-through mounts, but the Aimtech seemed to strike a better balance between quality, low profile, and positive user reviews. The UTG, while more affordable, seemed bulkier, and the generic mounts had questionable durability reports.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a well-thought-out design, but the true test would be how it performed on the range and whether the “see-through” feature was genuinely usable. I was excited to finally put my red dot on my AR-15, but also a little skeptical about whether the compromise would be worth it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I mounted a Trijicon MRO red dot sight onto the mount using standard Weaver-style rings. The installation was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes to secure the mount to the carry handle and then attach the optic.
The range conditions were ideal, and I started by zeroing the red dot at 50 yards. The mount held the zero well, even after several magazines of rapid fire. The see-through channel was indeed usable, although it took some getting used to as the sight picture was slightly different compared to using the iron sights without the mount.
One initial issue was the height-over-bore; the optic sits quite high, necessitating a slightly altered cheek weld on the stock. This took some adjustment, but wasn’t a deal-breaker. After zeroing at 50 yards, the red dot was quite accurate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, and the finish has held up well despite exposure to varying weather conditions and regular cleaning.
I’ve taken the rifle with this mount on a couple of backcountry trips, and it’s performed flawlessly in dusty environments. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. The mount hasn’t caused any issues with retaining zero, even after removing and re-installing the optic.
Compared to previous experiences with other carry handle mounts, the Aimtech significantly outperforms them in terms of stability and low profile. Cheaper mounts tended to wobble or loosen over time, but this one feels rock solid. It definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1
Specifications
The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 boasts the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Aimtech
- Color: Black
- Finish: Satin Black
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Quantity: One
- Base/Mount Type: Top Rail Mount
- Gun Model: M4, AR-15
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Length: 4 in
- Width: 1 in
- Weight: 3 oz
- Additional Features: Accepts Weaver Style Rings
These specifications are important because they directly impact the mount’s durability, weight, and compatibility. The 6061-T6 aluminum provides a good balance between strength and weight, while the Weaver-style ring compatibility allows for a wide range of optic choices. The low weight is crucial for maintaining the rifle’s balance and handling.
Performance & Functionality
The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 performs its job admirably by providing a stable platform for mounting optics on AR-15 rifles with carry handles. Its primary strength lies in its ability to allow the user to maintain the use of iron sights while also benefiting from the enhanced accuracy of a scope or red dot.
A minor weakness is the height-over-bore issue, which may require some adjustment to the shooter’s cheek weld. Overall, it meets expectations by providing a durable and functional mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent; the 6061-T6 aluminum feels robust and the satin black finish provides a professional look. At only 3 ounces, it adds minimal weight to the rifle. The design is relatively user-friendly, with a simple installation process and no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 is built to last. Its durable aluminum construction ensures it can withstand regular use and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 doesn’t come with any accessories, as it’s primarily a mounting platform. It accepts standard Weaver-style rings, making it compatible with a wide range of optics, including scopes, red dots, and holographic sights. While it doesn’t offer much in the way of direct customization, the choice of optic provides ample opportunity to tailor the rifle to specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1
Pros
- Allows for co-witnessing/use of iron sights with a mounted optic.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction.
- Lightweight design (3 oz) minimizes added weight.
- Easy to install and use with standard Weaver-style rings.
- Provides a stable and secure mounting platform for optics.
Cons
- Height-over-bore may require adjusting cheek weld.
- Limited customization options beyond optic choice.
Who Should Buy Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1?
The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 is perfect for AR-15 owners who want to modernize their classic carry handle rifles with an optic without sacrificing the ability to use iron sights as a backup. It’s also a great choice for recreational shooters, target shooters, and those who appreciate the flexibility of having both sighting options available.
Those who prioritize absolute minimal weight or who prefer a lower optic mounting position should probably skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a quality set of Weaver-style rings to securely mount the desired optic.
Conclusion on Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1
The Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 is a well-designed and durable mounting solution that effectively bridges the gap between classic iron sights and modern optics on AR-15 rifles with carry handles. Its ability to allow for co-witnessing or the use of iron sights as a backup makes it a versatile choice for a variety of shooting applications.
At a price of $43.99, the value proposition is excellent, considering its robust construction and functionality. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to add an optic to their AR-15 without completely abandoning the classic look and feel. If you’re seeking a stable and functional mount that preserves your iron sight capability, the Aimtech Black See Through Scope Mount For AR15/M16 ARM1 is definitely worth considering.
