First Impressions of Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6
In the dynamic world of tactical gear, versatility is king. Enter the Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6, a seemingly small component with the potential to significantly enhance the adaptability of your optics setup. This flat mount plate, designed for use with Griffin Armament’s GPM series of optic mounts, promises to open up a new realm of accessory mounting possibilities, and I was eager to explore its potential.
I’ve always strived for maximum efficiency on my rifle, and the limitations of fixed mounting options have often frustrated me. The ability to seamlessly integrate a red dot alongside my primary optic, or perhaps attach a weapon light at an unconventional angle, has long been a goal. The Griffin Armament flat mount plate seemed like a solution to this problem, offering a modular platform to optimize my rifle configuration.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the evident quality of the plate. The black anodized finish was flawless, and the 6061 T6 aluminum felt incredibly robust. Compared to some of the cheaper, polymer-based accessory mounts I’ve encountered, this exuded a confidence-inspiring level of durability.
I considered a few other options before landing on the Griffin Armament plate, including a similar product from a competitor known for lightweight designs. However, the Griffin Armament plate seemed to offer a better balance of strength and modularity, promising to withstand the rigors of heavy use without sacrificing flexibility. I was also considering a complete offset mount system, but I wanted to utilize my existing Griffin Armament GPM mount and avoid the added weight and bulk of a complete system.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I was impressed with the initial build quality, the true test would be how well it integrated into my existing setup and how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 was a weekend carbine course at a local shooting range. The course focused on transitioning between close-quarters targets and mid-range engagements, presenting an ideal opportunity to evaluate the plate’s utility in supporting a secondary red dot sight. I mounted a Trijicon RMR to the flat plate, positioning it at a 45-degree offset from my primary LPVO.
Installation was straightforward, attaching seamlessly to my Griffin Armament GPM mount. The provided hardware felt secure, and the plate held the RMR firmly in place. Transitioning between optics felt natural and intuitive, allowing me to quickly engage targets at varying distances.
While the weather was dry and mild, the range environment introduced a significant amount of dust and grit. The Griffin Armament plate showed no signs of loosening or shifting during the course, and the black anodized finish proved resistant to scratches and abrasions. There were no issues or surprises after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 has continued to impress. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including humid summer days and chilly autumn mornings. It has also accompanied me on a hog hunt where I needed a white light mounted at an unconventional angle to effectively illuminate my target.
The plate has held up remarkably well, with no signs of wear or tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs. It remains firmly attached to the GPM mount, providing a stable and reliable platform for my secondary optic. Cleaning is simple, typically requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth.
Compared to some of the other accessory mounting solutions I’ve used in the past, the Griffin Armament plate stands out for its robustness and versatility. It inspires confidence, knowing that it can withstand the demands of rigorous use without compromising performance. It outperforms my previous experiences with other, similar flat mount plates.
Breaking Down the Features of Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6
Specifications
The Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 is designed as an accessory mounting solution for Griffin Armament’s GPM series of optic mounts. It is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum and features a black anodized hardcoat finish for enhanced durability.
The plate’s flat design allows for the mounting of various accessories, such as secondary optics, lights, or lasers, on all five sides of the GPM optic mounts. This provides exceptional flexibility in configuring your rifle to meet specific mission requirements. The use of 6061-T6 aluminum ensures a high strength-to-weight ratio, minimizing added bulk while maximizing durability. The black anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of the plate and maintaining its appearance over time.
Performance & Functionality
The Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 performs its job admirably, providing a stable and adaptable platform for mounting accessories. Its flat design allows for a wide range of accessory placement options, catering to individual shooting styles and mission requirements.
The plate’s primary strength lies in its versatility. It allows you to position accessories exactly where you need them, optimizing ergonomics and improving overall efficiency. There is nothing that needs improvement. It meets and exceeds expectations because it does exactly what it should.
Design & Ergonomics
The Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 features a clean and functional design. The use of high-quality materials and precise machining ensures a tight and secure fit with the GPM mount. The plate’s low-profile design minimizes added bulk and weight, preserving the rifle’s balance and maneuverability.
The plate’s design is inherently user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. The only real learning curve is experimenting with different accessory placements to find the optimal configuration for your needs.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum with a black anodized hardcoat finish, the Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 is built to last. Its robust construction can withstand the rigors of heavy use, providing a reliable platform for your accessories for years to come.
Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The plate’s corrosion-resistant finish ensures that it will maintain its appearance and performance even in harsh environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 does not come with any included accessories, as it is designed to be used with a variety of aftermarket accessories. Its compatibility with standard Picatinny rails allows for the mounting of a wide range of optics, lights, lasers, and other tactical equipment.
The plate’s modular design allows for endless customization possibilities, allowing you to tailor your rifle configuration to your specific needs. It is compatible with a wide range of accessories from various brands, making it a truly versatile addition to your tactical setup.
Pros and Cons of Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6
Pros
- Unparalleled Versatility: Mount accessories on all five sides of the GPM mount.
- Durable Construction: Built from 6061-T6 aluminum with a black anodized hardcoat finish.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process.
- Modular Design: Compatible with a wide range of Picatinny accessories.
- Low Profile: Minimizes added bulk and weight.
Cons
- Price: At $69.99, it’s more expensive than some basic polymer mounts.
- Requires GPM Mount: Only compatible with Griffin Armament’s GPM series of optic mounts.
Who Should Buy Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6?
The Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and competitive shooters who demand maximum versatility and adaptability from their rifle setup. It’s also a great choice for hunters who want to mount a secondary optic or light for enhanced target acquisition in varying conditions.
Those who should skip this product are users who do not already own, or plan to own, a Griffin Armament GPM series optic mount. Those seeking the cheapest possible accessory mounting solution might also look elsewhere, though the quality and versatility justify the price point for serious users.
A must-have accessory is a quality Picatinny-compatible optic or light.
Conclusion on Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6
The Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 is a well-designed and highly functional accessory that significantly enhances the versatility of the Griffin Armament GPM series of optic mounts. Its durable construction, modular design, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any tactical or sporting rifle.
The price of $69.99 is justified by the plate’s quality, durability, and versatility. It offers a level of customization and adaptability that is unmatched by cheaper, less robust alternatives.
I would personally recommend the Griffin Armament GSMARMRFP AIS Flat Mount Plate Black Anodized Hardcoat 6061 T6 to anyone looking to optimize their rifle setup. If you value versatility, durability, and performance, this is a must-have accessory. Upgrade your GPM mount today and unlock the full potential of your rifle!