Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever Review

Let’s Talk About Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever

The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever is a simple yet effective accessory designed to enhance the usability of red dot sights on various firearms. Manufactured by Hawke Sport Optics, this riser elevates the sight to provide a more comfortable and natural cheek weld, improving target acquisition and accuracy. The quick release lever is a standout feature, allowing for swift attachment and detachment without tools.

I’ve always struggled with getting a proper cheek weld when using red dot sights on my AR platform rifles. It felt like I was craning my neck, which negatively impacted my accuracy and comfort, especially during extended range sessions. I needed a solution that would raise the sight to a more natural height, and the quick release feature was a must-have for easy swapping between different optics.

My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever feels solid and well-made. It’s surprisingly lightweight, yet the aluminum construction gives it a sense of durability.

I considered the UTG High Profile Riser Mount and the Aimpoint 30mm Ring with QRP2 Mount. Ultimately, I chose the Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever due to its integrated design and quick release lever, which seemed more convenient than separate ring mounts or more complex riser systems. I also liked that it was more budget-friendly while still promising reliable performance.

I was genuinely excited to try it out. The promise of improved ergonomics and quick detach functionality had me eager to see if it would solve my red dot sight mounting issues.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever at my local shooting range on my AR-15. The weather was sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing. The difference in sight height was immediately noticeable; I was able to get a much more comfortable and consistent cheek weld, resulting in improved target acquisition and faster follow-up shots.

Even with rapid firing, the riser held zero perfectly. The quick release lever made it incredibly easy to remove and reattach the red dot sight between shooting sessions. There were no issues during the first range trip, and the riser performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my setup. There are no signs of wear and tear on the finish. The quick release lever still functions smoothly and securely.

Cleaning the riser is a breeze – a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove any dust or debris. Compared to other mounting solutions I’ve used in the past, the Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever has exceeded my expectations in terms of ease of use and reliability. It consistently provides a stable and comfortable platform for my red dot sight.

Breaking Down the Features of Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever

Specifications

• The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever is designed for universal gun model compatibility, primarily with rifles. This makes it a versatile option for various firearms platforms.
• It measures 2.5 inches in length and 0.5 inches in height, providing a modest yet effective rise for red dot sights. This height increase allows for a more natural head position and improved sight alignment.
• The riser weighs a mere 2.3 ounces, adding minimal weight to the firearm. This is crucial for maintaining balance and maneuverability, especially during dynamic shooting scenarios.
• Constructed from aluminum, the riser offers a balance of durability and lightweight properties. This ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use while keeping the overall weight of the setup manageable.
• The riser features a Picatinny attachment type, making it compatible with a wide range of firearms and red dot sights. Picatinny rails are a standard in the industry, ensuring broad compatibility.
• The mount type is also Picatinny, further enhancing its versatility. This allows users to easily attach and detach red dot sights without the need for specialized tools.
• It has no optic cut, meaning it is designed to raise the optic, not directly interface with it. This ensures compatibility with a broad array of red dot sights that mount to Picatinny rails.
• The quick release lever allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the riser. This feature is particularly useful for those who frequently swap optics between firearms.

These specifications are critical for users seeking to improve their red dot sight setup. The lightweight design and Picatinny compatibility ensure that it can be easily integrated into various firearm platforms.

Performance & Functionality

The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever performs its primary function – raising the red dot sight – exceptionally well. It provides the necessary height increase to achieve a comfortable cheek weld and proper sight alignment. The quick release lever is a game-changer.

The riser is incredibly sturdy and maintains zero even after repeated removal and reattachment. The height is ideal for co-witnessing with iron sights on many AR-15 builds, providing a valuable backup sighting option. While the quick release lever is secure, some users might prefer a more robust locking mechanism for absolute certainty in extreme conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is impressive for its price point. The aluminum construction feels solid and durable. The lightweight design ensures that it doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the firearm.

The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever is very user-friendly. The quick release lever is intuitive and easy to operate, requiring no tools or special skills.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum construction of the Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever suggests that it should last for many years with proper care. The finish is resistant to scratches and wear.

Maintaining the riser is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a clean cloth is typically sufficient to keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the riser itself. However, its Picatinny rail compatibility means that it can be used with a vast array of red dot sights from various brands.

Since the riser is a standard Picatinny mount, it is compatible with virtually any red dot sight that uses a Picatinny interface. There aren’t really any customization options for the riser itself.

Pros and Cons of Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever

Who Should Buy Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever?

The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever is perfect for:

• AR-15 owners looking to improve the ergonomics of their red dot sight setup.
• Tactical shooters who need a quick and easy way to swap between different optics.
• Hobbyists and recreational shooters who want a reliable and affordable riser mount.
• Anyone who values the convenience of a quick release system for their optics.

Those who should skip this product:

• Individuals who require an extremely robust and secure mounting solution for heavy-duty applications.
• Users who need a riser with integrated backup iron sights.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A quality red dot sight that is compatible with Picatinny rails.

Conclusion on Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever

The Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever is a well-designed and functional accessory that effectively improves the usability of red dot sights. Its quick release lever, durable construction, and lightweight design make it a standout product in its category.

The price is definitely justified. It offers excellent value for those seeking a convenient and reliable riser mount.

I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance their red dot sight setup. If you are looking for an easy and affordable way to improve your shooting experience, then grab the Hawke Sport Optics Red Dot Riser w/ Quick Release Lever and experience the difference for yourself!