First Thoughts on the Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail
The AK platform, while iconic, has always presented a challenge for mounting optics. The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail aims to solve that problem, providing a stable and repeatable platform for modern sighting systems. Midwest Industries is a well-regarded name in the AK accessory world, and this offering promises to bring their reputation for quality to the optic mounting game.
I’ve been frustrated with side-rail mounts that never truly held zero, and wobbly dust cover replacements. The promise of a rigid, return-to-zero system is exactly what I was looking for. The initial unboxing revealed a cleanly machined piece, with a robust feel that hinted at its potential.
Compared to some of the cheaper dust cover rails on the market, the Midwest Industries option felt significantly more solid. I’d previously tried a UTG rail that rattled loose after a few magazines, and a no-name model that shifted zero constantly. This felt different. The price point is higher, at $244.95, but the perceived quality justified the cost in my mind. Excitement tempered with cautious optimism sums up my first impression.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail to the Test
First Use Experience
I took my AK, equipped with the Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail, to my local outdoor range. I zeroed my Holosun optic at 50 yards and proceeded to run about 200 rounds through the rifle. The mount felt incredibly stable throughout the session, even during rapid-fire drills.
I also wanted to simulate field conditions, so I subjected the rifle to some deliberate bumps and jostles. The rifle was placed in the back of my truck on a bumpy dirt road. There was no noticeable shift in the optic after this rough treatment. The ease of installation was also noteworthy; it took me about 15 minutes to install, following the included instructions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail continues to impress. The mount shows no signs of loosening or shifting. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each range session is all that’s needed.
Compared to my previous experiences with other AK optic mounts, this is a night and day difference. I no longer have to constantly check and re-zero my optic. The consistent return to zero is worth every penny.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail is constructed from 6061 Aluminum and 4140 Steel. This combination provides a good balance of lightweight strength and durability. It is specifically designed as an AK Alpha Series Railed Top Cover.
The key selling point is its patented components that allow for an accurate return to zero. The adjustable locking block is designed to fit on most AK firearms. The Midwest Industries recoil spring button is made specifically for this top cover.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail is to provide a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics on AK-pattern rifles. It accomplishes this exceptionally well. The rail holds zero consistently, even after extended firing sessions and rough handling.
The adjustable locking block is a crucial feature, allowing the mount to be fitted securely to AKs with varying receiver tolerances. The rigid lockup prevents dust and dirt from entering the firearm, enhancing reliability in adverse conditions. The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail meets, and even exceeds, my expectations for an AK optic mount.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail features a sleek and functional design. The all-black finish blends seamlessly with most AK rifles. The weight is negligible, adding very little to the overall mass of the firearm.
The design is user-friendly, and the installation process is straightforward. The fit and finish are excellent, reflecting the high quality of Midwest Industries products.
Durability & Maintenance
The construction of 6061 Aluminum and 4140 Steel ensures the durability of the Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail. After months of use, there are no signs of significant wear or tear. Maintenance involves simply wiping the rail clean after use, and occasionally checking the locking block for tightness.
The design is robust and unlikely to require any repairs under normal use. With proper care, this mount should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail provides a full-length Picatinny rail for mounting a wide range of optics. This allows the use of red dot sights, holographic sights, scopes, and magnifiers. The rail is compatible with any optic that utilizes a standard Picatinny mount.
There are no included accessories other than the mount itself and the necessary hardware for installation. The key customization option is the choice of optic to be mounted. The ability to use any Picatinny-compatible optic is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail
Pros
- Excellent Return to Zero: The primary benefit is the consistent return to zero, providing confidence in accurate shots.
- Rock-Solid Stability: The mount feels incredibly stable, even during rapid-fire and rough handling.
- Durable Construction: The use of 6061 Aluminum and 4140 Steel ensures long-lasting durability.
- Easy Installation: The mount can be installed quickly and easily with basic tools.
- Versatile Picatinny Rail: Compatible with a wide range of optics and accessories.
Cons
- The price point ($244.95) is higher than some competing AK optic mounts.
- Requires minor fitting on some AK variants due to receiver tolerance variations.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail?
The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail is perfect for AK owners who demand a reliable and accurate optic mounting solution. It’s ideal for competitive shooters, tactical users, and anyone who values consistent performance. Those who want to use modern optics on their AK rifles will see the most benefit.
Those on a very tight budget might want to explore cheaper alternatives, but be prepared to sacrifice stability and reliability. AK owners with milled receivers may need to verify compatibility before purchasing. A must-have accessory is a high-quality optic that complements the performance of the mount.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail
The Midwest Industries Alpha Mount Black Picatinny Rail is a top-tier optic mounting solution for AK-pattern rifles. Its consistent return to zero, rock-solid stability, and durable construction justify the price. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their AK with a reliable optic mounting platform.
For anyone serious about accuracy and performance with their AK, this is a worthwhile investment. Pull the trigger – you won’t regret it.