The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black Made a Bold First Impression
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is a deceptively simple piece of kit. This mount promises versatile weapon light and red dot sight attachment, and adaptability with various risers. It immediately caught my attention because I was seeking a reliable mounting solution that wouldn’t break the bank while offering flexibility for future upgrades.
My primary need was to securely mount a Surefire 951 weapon light onto a rifle with limited rail space. I wanted to avoid bulky, over-engineered mounts that add unnecessary weight and complexity. The AD-170’s compact design and compatibility with the 951 seemed like a perfect fit.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the American Defense’s build quality. The anodized finish felt robust and the machining was clean and precise. It felt noticeably more solid than some of the cheaper, pot-metal mounts I’ve handled in the past.
I had considered similar mounts from LaRue Tactical and Midwest Industries, both known for their quality. Ultimately, I chose the American Defense AD-170 due to its lower price point and the promise of the Patented QD Auto Lock™ Lever system. I was excited to see if the lever lived up to the hype of providing both secure attachment and easy removal.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The AD-170 looked and felt like a quality product, but the real test would be its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, under typical sunny conditions. I mounted a Surefire 951 weapon light to the AD-170, which was then attached to the Picatinny rail of my AR-15. The installation was straightforward and the QD lever locked firmly into place.
The AD-170 performed flawlessly during the first range session. I fired several hundred rounds, and the light remained securely attached without any loosening or shifting. The QD lever made it easy to remove the light for storage and transport.
I did not encounter any immediate issues, but I was curious how the mount would perform in more adverse conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black has proven its worth. The mount has been exposed to rain, mud, and dust during various outdoor excursions. There are minimal signs of wear.
The hard coat T3 Mil-Spec anodize finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and corrosion. Cleaning the mount is also a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe with a cloth.
In comparison to cheaper mounts I’ve used previously, the AD-170 is a clear winner in terms of durability and reliability. It provides the confidence that my light or optic will remain securely attached, regardless of the conditions. It far exceeds my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black
Specifications
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is precision machined from 6061 T6 aluminum. It features a Military Specification (MIL-A-8625F) Type III, Class II Hard Coat anodized finish. The weight is listed at 2.00 ozs.
This base is designed to directly mount a Surefire 951 type weapon light or a DI Optical rv1 red dot. It can also accept various risers for greater versatility. The standout feature is the Patented QD Auto Lock™ Lever system.
These specifications are important because they dictate the mount’s strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. The 6061 T6 aluminum provides a strong and lightweight foundation. The Mil-Spec anodizing protects against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black excels at providing a rock-solid mounting platform. The QD Auto Lock™ Lever system provides a secure and repeatable attachment. The mount is easy to install and remove without the need for tools.
The primary strength of this mount is its simplicity and versatility. It works as advertised, providing a stable base for a weapon light or red dot sight. There are no glaring weaknesses, though it is limited to specific lights and optics without the use of additional risers.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a basic, reliable mount. The American Defense delivers on its promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the AD-170 is excellent. The mount feels solid and well-made. Its compact design minimizes bulk and weight.
The QD lever is easy to operate, even with gloved hands. There is no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is built to last. The 6061 T6 aluminum and Mil-Spec anodized finish ensure long-term durability. The mount requires minimal maintenance and can be easily cleaned with common solvents.
I anticipate this mount will outlast many of the accessories I attach to it.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is primarily a standalone base. It’s designed to directly accept Surefire 951 type weapon lights and DI Optical rv1 red dots. The primary customization option lies in the ability to add various risers.
These risers can raise the height of the mounted optic or light. This allows for greater compatibility with different weapon platforms and aiming styles. The AD-170 is compatible with any Picatinny rail-mounted accessory, as long as it’s combined with a compatible riser.
Pros and Cons of American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black
Pros
- Offers a rock-solid and repeatable mounting platform.
- The Patented QD Auto Lock™ Lever system allows for quick and easy attachment and removal.
- Made from durable 6061 T6 aluminum with a Mil-Spec anodized finish.
- Lightweight and compact design minimizes bulk.
- Versatile, accepts Surefire 951 lights, DI Optical rv1 red dots, and various risers.
Cons
- Limited direct compatibility; requires risers for other optics or lights.
- Priced higher than some basic mounts, though the quality justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black?
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is perfect for shooters who want a reliable and versatile mounting solution. It’s ideal for those using a Surefire 951 weapon light or a DI Optical rv1 red dot. It also suits those who appreciate the convenience of a quick-detach lever system.
Those who need to mount a wide variety of optics or lights without using risers should skip this product. Buyers looking for the absolute cheapest mounting option might also want to consider alternatives. A must-have accessory would be a riser, depending on the intended use.
Conclusion on American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black
The American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is a well-designed and well-executed mounting solution. The price is justified by the quality of materials and the reliable performance of the QD Auto Lock™ Lever system.
I would absolutely recommend this mount to anyone looking for a durable and versatile platform for their weapon light or red dot sight. It has exceeded my expectations.
If you value quality, reliability, and versatility, then the American Defense AD-170 Base Mount Standard Lever Black is worth every penny. Upgrade your rifle today.