Let’s Dive into Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 is designed to bring your reliable Browning BPS pump shotgun into the modern optics era. This mount allows you to easily attach scopes, red dots, or lasers without permanent modifications to your firearm. Aimtech promises a simple installation process, maintaining the functionality of your iron sights, and all at a reasonable price point.
My trusty Browning BPS has been my go-to for years, but my aging eyes were making it harder to acquire targets quickly, especially during those crucial few seconds of a turkey hunt. I needed a way to mount a red dot sight without sacrificing the inherent reliability of the BPS or requiring a gunsmith’s expertise. After researching various options, the Aimtech mount seemed to be the best solution, offering a non-permanent, user-installable platform for optics.
The Aimtech mount arrived in a simple package, containing the mount itself, an Allen wrench for installation, and basic instructions. The black anodized aluminum appeared robust, though lighter than expected at just four ounces. The machining looked clean and precise, promising a snug fit onto the BPS receiver. Compared to other, more elaborate mounting solutions that require drilling or tapping, the Aimtech stood out for its simplicity and reversibility.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the lightweight design was a plus, I was slightly concerned about its long-term durability under heavy recoil. The promise of a three-minute installation also seemed ambitious, but I was eager to put the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test took place at my local shooting range, under relatively mild weather conditions. I wanted to assess the ease of installation, the stability of the mount, and how well it held zero with a red dot sight attached. The installation, while not exactly three minutes, was surprisingly straightforward. I followed the instructions, used the provided Allen wrench, and had the mount securely attached in about 10 minutes.
The mount felt solid, and the red dot sight (a Burris FastFire III) attached easily to the Weaver-style base. During the first few rounds, the mount remained secure, and the red dot held zero. However, after about 20 rounds of heavy 12-gauge loads, I noticed a slight shift in the point of impact. This required a minor adjustment to the red dot, which was a little concerning.
The biggest surprise was the sharp rear edge of the mount near the trigger guard, as mentioned by another user. This edge indeed made contact with my trigger finger during recoil, causing some discomfort. I had to adjust my grip slightly to avoid repeated contact, which was less than ideal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 100 rounds through the BPS, the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 has held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the mount itself, and it continues to provide a stable platform for the red dot. I have re-tightened the mounting screws once to ensure a secure fit, though I suspect this will become routine maintenance.
The anodized finish has proven to be durable, resisting scratches and corrosion. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s needed. Comparing this experience to a previous attempt at using an adhesive-based mount on another shotgun (which failed miserably), the Aimtech mount is a clear winner in terms of reliability and stability.
However, the issue with the sharp rear edge persists. Even with gloves, prolonged shooting sessions can cause discomfort and even minor abrasions. I will eventually need to address this with some filing or a custom modification. This issue prevents the mount from being a truly outstanding accessory.
Breaking Down the Features of Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11
Specifications
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 boasts a set of specifications tailored for the Browning BPS 12-gauge pump shotgun:
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for the Browning BPS 12 Gauge. This ensures a proper and secure fit on the receiver.
- Material: Extruded and machined high-strength aluminum alloy. This offers a good balance of lightweight and durability.
- Finish: Black anodized. This provides corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
- Weight: Approximately 4 ounces. This minimizes added weight to the shotgun.
- Mounting Style: Weaver-style base. This accepts a wide variety of scopes, red dots, and lasers.
- Installation: User-installable with included tool. This eliminates the need for gunsmithing.
- Sights: Iron sights remain functional. This allows for continued use of the original sighting system.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the mount’s functionality and user experience. The specific compatibility ensures a secure fit, while the lightweight aluminum alloy minimizes added bulk. The Weaver-style base provides versatility in optic selection, and the maintained functionality of iron sights provides a backup sighting system.
Performance & Functionality
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 generally performs its primary job effectively: providing a stable platform for mounting optics on a Browning BPS shotgun. Accuracy, with a properly zeroed optic, is excellent. The mount remains relatively stable under recoil, though periodic tightening of the screws may be required.
A significant strength is the ease of installation. Even someone with limited gunsmithing experience can install it in a reasonable amount of time. The main weakness, as previously mentioned, is the sharp rear edge that can cause discomfort during shooting. This could be improved with a slight design modification.
Overall, the Aimtech mount meets expectations for a non-permanent, user-installable optics platform. While it’s not perfect, it provides a significant upgrade to the BPS’s sighting capabilities.
Design & Ergonomics
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 features a simple and functional design. The black anodized aluminum provides a sleek and non-reflective finish. The lightweight construction helps to maintain the balance of the shotgun.
However, the previously mentioned sharp rear edge significantly detracts from the ergonomic design. This one flaw impacts the overall user experience. Aside from this, the mount is relatively unobtrusive and doesn’t interfere with the shotgun’s operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum alloy construction suggests good long-term durability. The anodized finish provides resistance to corrosion and scratches. With proper care and occasional tightening of the mounting screws, the Aimtech mount should last for many years.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is sufficient. No specialized tools or cleaning agents are required. This ease of maintenance adds to the mount’s overall appeal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 comes with a basic Allen wrench for installation. Beyond that, the primary customization option is the choice of optic to mount on the Weaver-style base. This allows users to select the scope, red dot, or laser that best suits their needs.
The Weaver-style base is compatible with a wide range of accessories from various brands. This includes popular red dot sights like the Burris FastFire, Trijicon RMR, and Aimpoint Micro. It also supports various scopes and lasers designed for Weaver-style mounts.
Pros and Cons of Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11Pros
- Easy to install: Simple, user-friendly installation process with included tool.
- Maintains iron sight functionality: Allows for continued use of original iron sights as a backup.
- Lightweight design: Adds minimal weight to the shotgun, preserving balance.
- Durable construction: High-strength aluminum alloy with corrosion-resistant finish.
- Versatile optic mounting: Weaver-style base compatible with a wide range of optics.
Cons
- Sharp rear edge: Can cause discomfort and abrasions during recoil.
- Potential for loosening: Mounting screws may require periodic tightening.
Who Should Buy Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11?
Pros
- Easy to install: Simple, user-friendly installation process with included tool.
- Maintains iron sight functionality: Allows for continued use of original iron sights as a backup.
- Lightweight design: Adds minimal weight to the shotgun, preserving balance.
- Durable construction: High-strength aluminum alloy with corrosion-resistant finish.
- Versatile optic mounting: Weaver-style base compatible with a wide range of optics.
Cons
- Sharp rear edge: Can cause discomfort and abrasions during recoil.
- Potential for loosening: Mounting screws may require periodic tightening.
Perfect for: Hunters looking to improve their target acquisition speed with a red dot sight on their Browning BPS. Also, sporting clays shooters who want to experiment with optics without permanently modifying their shotgun will find it useful. Finally, recreational shooters wanting to modernize their older BPS with a simple, reversible mounting solution will find value in the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11.
Who should skip this product? Anyone highly sensitive to recoil or unwilling to perform minor modifications to address the sharp rear edge. Those requiring absolutely rock-solid, set-and-forget optic mounting should also consider more permanent solutions, like drilling and tapping the receiver.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality red dot sight (like a Burris FastFire or Trijicon RMR) is essential. Also, a file or sandpaper to smooth the sharp rear edge of the mount for improved comfort would be beneficial.
Conclusion on Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11
The Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 offers a convenient and relatively affordable way to add optics to a Browning BPS pump shotgun. While the sharp rear edge is a significant drawback, the mount’s ease of installation, lightweight design, and Weaver-style compatibility make it a worthwhile upgrade for many shooters. The price is justified given the increased versatility and improved sighting capabilities it provides.
I would recommend the Aimtech mount with the caveat that buyers should be prepared to address the sharp edge issue. With that minor modification, the Aimtech Shotgun Scope Mount Browning BPS Pump 12 Gauge ASM-11 transforms a classic shotgun into a more modern and versatile platform. Consider upgrading your BPS today and experience the benefits of adding optics to your trusted firearm.