The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless optics and mounting solutions come and go. However, the Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount piqued my interest because of Burris’s reputation for ruggedness and reliability, combined with the need for a streamlined, low-profile mounting option for my AR platform. I wanted a mount that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk while still providing a secure and repeatable zero for my red dot.
For years I ran a co-witness setup with iron sights, but my aging eyes craved something faster, something less cluttered. This mount promised a lower 1/3 co-witness, a balance between using irons in a pinch and a clear, unobstructed view through the optic. The need for quicker target acquisition and more accurate follow-up shots during dynamic drills ultimately led me to select this product.
The mount arrived in simple, no-frills packaging, a testament to Burris’s focus on function over flash. My initial impression was positive: the matte black finish looked durable, and the weight felt substantial without being overly heavy. It felt like a solid piece of kit, made to withstand the rigors of hard use.
I considered other mounts, including some cantilever options from competing brands. However, these added significant length and weight. The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount offered the smallest footprint for my FastFire, crucial for maintaining a balanced feel on my rifle.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. This wasn’t a flashy, tacticool accessory; it was a purpose-built tool designed to do one thing and do it well: securely mount my red dot. I was excited to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount was at my local outdoor range, a dusty and sometimes windy environment. I mounted my Burris FastFire red dot to the mount, then secured the assembly to the flattop receiver of my AR-15. The installation process was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a basic wrench.
The mount held zero perfectly through several hundred rounds of .223, even with rapid firing strings. Even in direct sunlight and with dust swirling around, the red dot remained clear and easily visible. I found the lower 1/3 co-witness to be ideal, allowing me to quickly transition to iron sights if needed without being distracting.
There were no unexpected issues after the first use. The mount stayed firmly in place, and the red dot retained its zero. The height was perfect for a natural cheek weld, improving my speed and accuracy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and a carbine course in varying weather conditions, the Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount continues to perform flawlessly. It has proven to be a dependable and essential addition to my AR setup. The Burris mount is a testament to its ruggedness.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to heat, dust, and occasional bumps. The matte finish has held up remarkably well. Occasional wiping down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and rust-free.
Compared to previous budget-friendly mounts I’ve used, the Burris mount is a night and day difference. The previous mounts shifted zero, loosened during firing, and showed signs of rust after minimal exposure to the elements. The Burris mount’s consistent performance and durability have far exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount
Specifications
The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount is designed specifically for mounting a Burris FastFire red dot sight onto an AR-15 flattop receiver. It’s constructed from lightweight yet durable aluminum with a matte black finish. This robust construction ensures it can withstand the recoil and rigors of tactical use.
The mount places the red dot at a lower 1/3 co-witness height, allowing for the use of iron sights if the optic fails. This is a crucial feature for maintaining redundancy in a critical situation. It utilizes a standard Picatinny rail interface for secure attachment to the receiver.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount excels at its primary function: providing a stable and repeatable platform for a red dot sight. It allows for quick and accurate target acquisition, enhancing overall shooting performance. The lower 1/3 co-witness offers a practical balance between optical sight usage and backup iron sight capability.
Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. There are no complex adjustments or fragile components to worry about. However, it is specifically designed for the Burris FastFire and may not be compatible with other red dot sights without modification.
The mount meets and exceeds my expectations for a no-nonsense, functional mounting solution. It provides a secure and stable platform for my red dot without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity.
Design & Ergonomics
The mount’s design is clean and functional, with a focus on minimizing weight and maximizing durability. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most AR-15 platforms. Its low profile prevents snagging and interference with other accessories.
The mount is exceptionally user-friendly. Installation is quick and easy. The lower 1/3 co-witness height provides a comfortable and natural shooting position.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount is built to last. The aluminum construction and durable finish ensure it can withstand years of use and abuse. The simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount is primarily designed for use with the Burris FastFire series of red dot sights. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it can be paired with various iron sight configurations to achieve the desired co-witness. It’s compatibility with standard Picatinny rails also allows for the attachment of other accessories, such as magnifiers.
Third-party accessories, such as rail-mounted backup iron sights, can be easily integrated to further enhance the system’s versatility.
Pros and Cons of Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount
Pros
- Provides a stable and repeatable zero for the Burris FastFire red dot sight.
- Offers a lower 1/3 co-witness with iron sights.
- Lightweight and durable aluminum construction.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Specifically designed for Burris FastFire red dot sights; limited compatibility with other optics.
- No adjustable height or offset options.
Who Should Buy Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount?
The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount is perfect for AR-15 owners looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable way to mount their Burris FastFire red dot sight. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a lower 1/3 co-witness with iron sights. It is also great for casual shooters who want improved accuracy and quicker target acquisition.
This mount may not be the best choice for those who require adjustable height or offset options, or who want to use a red dot sight other than the Burris FastFire.
A must-have accessory would be a quality set of back-up iron sights.
Conclusion on Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount
The Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount is a no-frills, high-value mounting solution that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure and stable platform for a Burris FastFire red dot, offering a practical lower 1/3 co-witness with iron sights. The mount’s rugged construction and ease of use make it a reliable choice for a wide range of shooters.
At $82.99, the price is more than justified given the quality, durability, and performance of the mount. It’s an affordable upgrade that significantly enhances the usability and effectiveness of an AR-15 platform.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Burris AR-F3 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Flattop Mount to anyone seeking a dependable and cost-effective red dot mounting solution. Invest in this mount, improve your accuracy, and experience quicker target acquisition.