First Impressions of Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny
The Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny promises a simple, robust solution for mounting red dot optics on the ubiquitous AK platform. Midwest Industries has a solid reputation for producing quality aftermarket AK parts, and this mount aims to modernize the classic rifle without permanent modification. Its claim of fitting both AK-47 and AK-74 variants, along with a built-in iron sight for co-witnessing, immediately piqued my interest.
I’ve long struggled with finding a reliable optic mounting solution for my AK that didn’t require gunsmithing or significantly alter the rifle’s original profile. Side-mounted rails can add bulk and weight, while railed dust covers often suffer from zeroing issues. I was specifically seeking a low-profile mount that would allow me to easily add a red dot while retaining the ability to use my iron sights as a backup.
Upon unboxing the Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny, I was impressed by its solid feel. The 6061 aluminum construction felt substantial and well-machined, and the hardcoat anodized finish gave it a durable appearance. Compared to some of the cheaper, stamped steel mounts I’ve seen, this felt like a significant step up in quality and rigidity.
I had considered an Attero Arms mount, but some user reviews mentioned potential alignment issues with the dust cover; the steel locking blocks on the Midwest Industries mount seemed like a more robust design. Ultimately, the promise of a lower 1/3 co-witness with my red dot and the “no permanent modification” claim sealed the deal. My initial excitement was high, hoping this would be the solution I’d been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my Arsenal SLR-107FR (AK-74 variant) and paired it with a Holosun HS503CU red dot sight. Installation was relatively straightforward, although I did need to use a small punch to drift out the original rear sight pin.
The mount felt incredibly secure once installed. The red dot sight sat low enough to achieve a true lower 1/3 co-witness with the built-in iron sight, a feature I greatly appreciated. In the bright sunlight, the red dot was easily visible, and the ability to quickly transition to the iron sights if needed provided a reassuring level of redundancy.
After running about 200 rounds through the rifle, I noticed no shifting or loosening of the mount. However, the small set screws used to secure the mount in place required careful tightening; over-tightening could potentially damage the rear sight block. Overall, the first range trip was a success, and I was pleased with the initial performance and stability of the mount.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 1000 rounds fired, the Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the mount remains firmly attached to the rifle. I have also tested it in slightly adverse conditions, including light rain and dusty environments, without any issues.
Cleaning is simple; I usually just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. The hardcoat anodized finish has held up well against scratches and scuffs. Compared to my previous experiences with other AK optic mounts, the Midwest Industries mount has significantly exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny
Specifications
Manufacturer: Midwest Industries.
Gun Model Compatibility: AK-47, AK-74.
Color: Black.
Fabric/Material: 6061 Aluminum.
Mount Type: Picatinny.
Gun Rail: Picatinny.
Country of Origin: USA.
Built-in Iron Sight: Offers a lower 1/3 co-witness with most red dots.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the mount’s strength, weight, and compatibility. The 6061 aluminum provides a good balance between durability and weight savings, while the Picatinny rail allows for mounting a wide range of optics. The fact that it’s made in the USA speaks to Midwest Industries’ commitment to quality.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny performs its job admirably. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting red dot sights on AK rifles. The lower 1/3 co-witness is a major selling point, as it allows for continued use of the iron sights in case of optic failure.
A major strength is its simple, non-permanent installation. A slight weakness is the need for careful tightening of the set screws to avoid damage. Overall, the mount has exceeded my expectations, offering a reliable and functional solution for adding an optic to my AK.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The 6061 aluminum feels robust, and the mount doesn’t add excessive weight to the rifle. The low profile design is also a plus, maintaining the AK’s classic lines.
It is user-friendly, with a relatively simple installation process. However, some may find the small set screws a bit fiddly.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardcoat anodized aluminum construction suggests that it will last for many years of use. The simple design makes it easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional wiping down.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mount comes with the necessary hardware for installation. It is designed to be compatible with any red dot sight that utilizes a Picatinny rail or T2 footprint. There are no other specific accessories designed solely for this mount. However, users can customize their AK with various red dots and other Picatinny-compatible accessories.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny
Pros
- Rock-solid mounting platform: Provides a very stable base for red dot sights, maintaining zero even after extended use.
- Lower 1/3 co-witness: Allows for the use of iron sights as a backup without removing the optic.
- Non-permanent modification: Can be easily installed and removed without altering the rifle’s original configuration.
- Durable construction: Made from 6061 hardcoat anodized aluminum for long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight design: Adds minimal weight to the rifle, preserving its handling characteristics.
Cons
- Potential for over-tightening: The small set screws require careful torque to avoid damage to the rear sight block.
- Minor fitting may be required: Some users may need to do slight filing or adjustment for perfect fit.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny?
The Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny is perfect for AK owners who want to add a red dot sight without permanently modifying their rifle. It is well-suited for tactical shooters, recreational target shooters, and those who want to modernize their AK platform. This mount is also excellent for those who want to retain the use of their iron sights as a backup aiming system.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer side-mounted rails or are unwilling to perform even minor fitting adjustments. Also, users planning to mount larger, heavier optics may want to consider other mounting solutions.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality red dot sight, such as a Holosun HS503 or Aimpoint Micro T-2.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny
The Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny is an excellent optic mounting solution for AK rifles. It offers a robust, reliable, and non-permanent way to add a red dot sight. The lower 1/3 co-witness feature is a standout, providing added versatility and peace of mind.
At a price of $87.50, the value proposition is very strong. It offers comparable performance to more expensive mounts while remaining accessible to a wide range of AK owners.
I would personally recommend the Midwest Industries AK Alpha Series Mini Dot Mount Picatinny to anyone looking to upgrade their AK with a red dot optic. Its ease of installation, durable construction, and co-witnessing capabilities make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re ready to modernize your AK without sacrificing its classic appeal, this mount is an excellent choice.