Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized Review

Let’s Talk About Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized

The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is a specialized piece of hardware designed to allow shooters to mount popular red dot sights onto firearms with oversized Novak-cut dovetails. Evolution Gun Works (EGW) is a well-known manufacturer in the firearms industry, celebrated for producing high-quality, precision-engineered components. This mount particularly shines as a solution for those who want to add a red dot optic to their 1911 or similar platform without costly milling or permanent modifications.

I’ve spent countless hours tinkering with various red dot mounting solutions, but I recently acquired a beautifully customized 1911 with an oversized Novak dovetail. While the oversized dovetail provides a super snug fit for iron sights, it presented a mounting challenge when I decided to add a Vortex Viper. I needed a robust, reliable mount that wouldn’t require me to alter the slide, and I knew the Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized was designed for just this situation.

The mount arrived in a simple, functional package. My first impression was that it was a solid, well-machined piece of aluminum with a reassuring heft. The matte black finish looked durable and well-applied, promising good corrosion resistance.

I considered a few other options, including universal dovetail mounts that clamp onto the existing sight. However, many of these universal options felt flimsy or lacked the precision I demand for reliable zero retention. I also looked at some custom milling options, but that was a permanent modification I wasn’t yet ready to commit to. The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized struck the perfect balance, providing a stable mounting platform while maintaining the flexibility to revert to iron sights.

Honestly, I was both excited and slightly apprehensive upon receiving the mount. The product description clearly stated it required fitting, which meant this wouldn’t be a simple drop-in installation. I was eager to get my Viper mounted, but also braced for some careful filing and adjustment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized to the Test

First Use Experience

The primary testing ground for the Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized was the local shooting range. I mounted the Vortex Viper red dot and put it through its paces on my 1911. Testing included rapid-fire drills, slow precision shooting, and target transitions.

The weather conditions were typical for an early spring day: damp with intermittent light rain. The mount held up surprisingly well, with the red dot remaining securely attached and maintaining its zero throughout the range session. I experienced no slippage or loosening of screws despite the less-than-ideal weather.

The fitting process was more involved than I initially anticipated, requiring careful filing of the dovetail to achieve a snug, yet manageable fit. Once the mount was properly seated, the red dot sat securely and presented a clear sight picture. I initially had some reservations about the height over bore, but it proved to be manageable with minimal adjustment to my shooting technique.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips and a few hundred rounds downrange, the Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized continues to perform admirably. It’s proven to be a robust and dependable mounting solution.

There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear. The finish is holding up well to regular handling and cleaning. The mount remains securely seated in the dovetail, with no noticeable loosening or shifting.

Maintaining the mount is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent keeps it free from carbon buildup and debris. I periodically check the mounting screws to ensure they remain properly torqued. The mount has instilled confidence in its durability and reliability. It has exceeded my expectations for a dovetail mounting solution.

Breaking Down the Features of Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized

Specifications

• The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is constructed from 7075 Aluminum, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures the mount is both durable and lightweight, minimizing any negative impact on the firearm’s balance.
• This mount features a matte black hard coat anodize finish. This finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface, crucial for tactical applications.
• The mount’s footprint is designed to accommodate Vortex Venom, Docter/Noblex, Vortex Viper, and Burris Fastfire red dot sights. This versatility allows users to choose from a variety of popular red dot optics.
• It is explicitly designed to fit firearms with oversized Novak cut dovetails. This makes it ideal for 1911s and other platforms that utilize this dovetail cut.
• The mount measures 1.811 inches in length and 0.99 inches in width. These dimensions are optimized to provide a stable mounting platform without being overly bulky.
• The included accessories consist of two 6-32 button head screws, two 6-32 flat head screws, and one 6-32 set screw. This ensures compatibility with various red dot sight models.
• It’s worth noting that EGW designed this mount with a progressive taper on the dovetail. This feature is intended to ease installation.

These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the mount’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The high-quality materials and precise dimensions ensure a secure and reliable mounting solution, while the compatibility with popular red dot sights and oversized dovetails makes it a versatile choice for many firearms owners.

Performance & Functionality

The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized performs its job exceptionally well, providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting a red dot sight. The mount allows for quick and easy target acquisition, enhancing shooting accuracy and speed.

The primary strength of this mount is its secure fit in oversized Novak dovetails. This eliminates the need for permanent modifications to the firearm. The requirement for fitting can be seen as both a strength and a weakness. While it requires some skill and effort to install, it ensures a perfect, customized fit.

The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized meets expectations by providing a robust and reliable mounting solution that enhances the firearm’s performance. It allows shooters to easily transition to a red dot optic without compromising the ability to revert to iron sights.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is excellent. The 7075 aluminum and hard coat anodize finish contribute to its durability and resistance to wear. While the mount does add some weight to the firearm, it is minimal and doesn’t significantly impact the balance or handling.

The mount is generally user-friendly, but the fitting process does require some degree of skill and patience. Novice gun owners might want to seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Once installed, the mount provides a secure and stable platform for the red dot sight, with a clear and unobstructed sight picture.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from 7075 aluminum and its hard coat anodize finish, the Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is expected to last for many years of use. The mount is designed to withstand the rigors of regular shooting and handling.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and checking of the mounting screws. The mount is designed to be easily removed and reinstalled as needed, allowing for convenient maintenance and cleaning of the firearm.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized comes with the necessary screws for mounting a variety of red dot sights, including Vortex Viper/Venom, Burris FastFire, and Docter optics. The mount itself doesn’t offer many customization options. However, it’s designed to be compatible with any firearm that has an oversized Novak-cut dovetail.

While there are no specific accessories designed exclusively for this mount, its compatibility with various red dot sights allows for a degree of customization based on the user’s preference. This product will improve the functionality of any compatible firearm that accepts an optic.

Pros and Cons of Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized

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Who Should Buy Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized?

The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is perfect for:

• Owners of 1911s or other firearms with oversized Novak-cut dovetails who want to add a red dot sight without permanent modifications.
• Shooters who prioritize a secure and reliable mounting solution over a simple drop-in installation.
• Gun enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with their firearms and are comfortable with minor fitting and adjustments.

This product is not for those who:

• Are uncomfortable with fitting gun parts.
• Prefer a simpler, drop-in installation process.
• Are looking for the lowest possible mounting height for their red dot sight.

A must-have accessory for this mount is a good set of gunsmithing files for the fitting process. Blue Loctite is also essential for securing the mounting screws.

Conclusion on Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized

The Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is a well-engineered and robust solution for mounting red dot sights on firearms with oversized Novak-cut dovetails. While it requires some effort to install, the secure and reliable fit, combined with its durable construction and versatile compatibility, make it a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified given the quality of materials and the precision engineering involved. The mount provides a cost-effective alternative to custom milling or other permanent modifications.

I would personally recommend this mount to anyone looking to add a red dot sight to their 1911 or similar firearm with an oversized dovetail. It offers a perfect balance of performance, durability, and value. If you’re ready to enhance your shooting experience and want a reliable way to mount your red dot, the Evolution Gun Works Vortex Viper/Venom Sight Mount Oversized is an excellent choice. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!