Let’s Dive into Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount promises to be a simple solution for long gun users who want to elevate their CT-RAD red dot optic to a co-witness height. Crimson Trace aims to provide a reliable and affordable mount for achieving proper sight alignment with iron sights. This mount, with its promise of easy installation and durable construction, has caught my attention.
For years, I’ve struggled with finding the perfect red dot height for my AR platform rifles. Standard low mounts often require a cheek weld that’s too low for comfortable and consistent shooting. The hunt for a reliable co-witness mount has been ongoing, and the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount, with its seemingly straightforward design, appeared to be a viable contender.
Upon unboxing, the mount felt surprisingly lightweight, thanks to its Aircraft Grade 6061 Aluminum construction. The Type lll Hard Anodized finish gave it a solid, durable feel. However, the included screws immediately raised a red flag; they looked somewhat soft and prone to stripping.
I considered other options like Scalarworks or American Defense mounts, known for their bomb-proof construction and rock-solid reliability. Ultimately, the lower price point of the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount and the desire to test a more budget-friendly option led me to choose this product. Would it deliver the performance of its higher-end counterparts at a fraction of the cost?
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic about the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount. The lightweight design and seemingly robust finish were encouraging. But, the questionable quality of the included screws and the user feedback about screw failures had me bracing for a potential disappointment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount on my AR-15 at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offered a variety of distances, from 25 to 200 yards. I wanted to evaluate the mount’s ability to maintain zero under moderate recoil.
During the initial sight-in, I noticed the red dot shifting slightly after each magazine. This was concerning. The shifting zero became more pronounced as the barrel heated up.
The mount was initially easy to install, but tightening the screws to the recommended torque spec felt inadequate. They simply didn’t inspire confidence. I didn’t need much time to get used to it, but the overall experience was far from confidence-inspiring.
Extended Use & Reliability
After approximately 500 rounds, the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount showed significant signs of loosening. The screws required constant re-tightening to maintain a semblance of zero. The factory screws were proving to be a major weak point.
The mount’s anodized finish held up well, showing no signs of scratching or fading. However, the constant loosening of the screws made me question its long-term durability and overall reliability. Cleaning and maintaining the mount itself was easy.
Compared to my experience with higher-end mounts like those from Aimpoint or Trijicon, the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount falls short. The constant need for adjustment and the overall lack of confidence in its ability to hold zero was a significant disappointment. My previous experiences with more robust mounts have set a much higher standard for reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount
Specifications
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount is designed for use with long guns, specifically AR-15 platforms. It is compatible with red dot sights that use the Crimson Trace CT-RAD footprint or the Docter mounting pattern. Key specifications include:
- Manufacturer: Crimson Trace
- Color: Black
- Finish: Type lll Hard Anodized
- Gun Type: Pistol (Although meant for Long Guns)
- Weight: 1 oz
- Fabric/Material: Aircraft Grade 6061 Aluminum
- Optic Cut: Not Applicable
- Gun Make: Sauer
- Condition: New
- Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Crimson Trace CT RAD
- Mount Type: Picatinny
These specifications matter because they directly impact the mount’s weight, durability, and compatibility with various optics and firearms. The aluminum construction and anodized finish contribute to a lightweight yet rugged platform. The Picatinny mount ensures easy installation on most modern long guns.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount is to raise the red dot sight to a co-witness height with standard iron sights. In theory, this allows for quick target acquisition and seamless transition between the optic and iron sights. However, the mount’s performance is hindered by the quality of the included screws.
The mount’s biggest weakness is its inability to consistently hold zero. The provided screws are simply not strong enough to withstand the recoil of even a moderately powerful rifle. This leads to shifting point of impact and a lack of confidence in the optic’s reliability. It does not meet expectations for holding zero.
The mount’s strong point is its lightweight design, which doesn’t add significant weight to the rifle. Its aluminum construction is durable. Also, the Type III anodized finish resists scratching and wear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount features a simple, minimalist design. Its low profile and lightweight construction make it relatively unobtrusive on the firearm. The mount’s height provides a comfortable co-witness with standard AR-15 iron sights.
The build quality is decent, with a clean anodized finish and precisely machined surfaces. However, the included screws detract from the overall impression of quality. A higher-grade screw would significantly improve the product. The mount has no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The mount itself is durable, thanks to its Aircraft Grade 6061 Aluminum construction. The Type lll Hard Anodized finish protects against corrosion and wear. However, the screws are the weak link in the chain.
The lifespan of the mount is directly dependent on the quality of the screws used. Replacing the factory screws with higher-grade alternatives is essential for ensuring long-term reliability. Maintenance is simple; periodic cleaning with a dry cloth is sufficient to keep the mount in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount itself doesn’t offer many customization options. Its primary function is to provide a co-witness platform for compatible red dot sights. It is compatible with any red dot sight using the Crimson Trace CT RAD or Docter mounting pattern, including the Crimson Trace CT-RAD PRO and CTS-1250.
The mount readily accepts any Picatinny-compatible accessories. Aftermarket options are limited to replacing the included screws with higher-grade alternatives. This modification is highly recommended for improving the mount’s reliability.
Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight design doesn’t add significant weight to the firearm.
- Durable Aircraft Grade 6061 Aluminum construction.
- Type lll Hard Anodized finish resists scratching and wear.
- Provides a co-witness platform for compatible red dot sights and iron sights.
Cons
- Included screws are of questionable quality and prone to loosening.
- Requires frequent re-tightening to maintain zero, which negatively impacts reliability.
- Does not include higher grade screws.
Who Should Buy Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount?
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who are willing to replace the included screws with higher-quality alternatives. It is best suited for casual range use or situations where absolute precision is not critical. It may also serve as a good option for those experimenting with red dots on a long gun platform for the first time without wanting to make too much of an initial investment.
Those who demand absolute reliability and consistent zero should skip this product. Serious competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, or anyone using their firearm in a life-or-death situation should invest in a higher-quality mount from a more reputable brand. A must-have modification is the immediate replacement of the included screws with higher-grade alternatives.
Conclusion on Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount offers an affordable entry point into the world of co-witness red dot sights on long guns. Its lightweight design and durable construction are appealing. However, the questionable quality of the included screws severely impacts its reliability.
The price is justified if the user is willing to invest in replacement screws. Otherwise, the constant need for adjustment and the potential for shifting zero make it a frustrating and unreliable option. I cannot personally recommend this product without the caveat of replacing the factory screws.
The Crimson Trace CT-RAD Co-Witness Mount has potential. With a simple upgrade to higher-quality screws, this mount could be a viable budget-friendly option. Until then, proceed with caution and be prepared to make the necessary modifications. Consider investing in a higher-quality mount for critical applications where reliability is paramount.