First Impressions of Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam is a simple, yet essential accessory for any shooter looking to optimize their weapon light placement. Midwest Industries, a reputable name in the firearms industry, designed this beam to provide a stable and extended mounting platform. It addresses the common issue of light shadowing caused by suppressors or other muzzle devices. I was immediately drawn to its minimalist design and promises of improved light projection.
My journey to finding the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam started with a persistent problem: suppressor shadow. I recently added a suppressor to my AR-15, and while the sound reduction was fantastic, the resulting shadow from my weapon light was not. The shadow significantly reduced the effectiveness of my light at close ranges. I needed a solution to push my light further out without compromising the rifle’s balance or adding unnecessary bulk.
Upon unboxing, the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam impressed me with its clean lines and solid feel. The hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum construction felt incredibly robust. The beam was lightweight, yet clearly built to withstand abuse. Comparing it to Magpul’s M-LOK cantilever rail and Arisaka Defense’s inline scout mount, the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam stood out with its simplicity. I picked this because it provided the necessary extension with a minimal footprint. I was excited to see if this simple design could solve my suppressor shadow problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my AR-15’s M-LOK handguard and attached my Streamlight ProTac HL-X weapon light. The initial testing involved various drills, including target acquisition at different distances, and moving between shooting positions.
The performance was immediately noticeable, even under bright daylight conditions. The light was further out in front of the suppressor, reducing the shadow considerably. The extension provided the needed clearance to maximize the light’s potential. I found that I didn’t need much time to get used to it. This is because the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam maintained a low profile. There were no noticeable changes to handling or balance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam continues to perform flawlessly. It has proven to be an incredibly reliable piece of kit. There are no signs of loosening, bending, or any other type of failure. I’ve taken it through multiple range sessions and one three-day tactical training course.
The hard coat anodized finish has held up well to abrasions and impacts. It has seen its fair share of bumps and scrapes without any significant cosmetic damage. The cleaning process has been straightforward; I simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range visit. Compared to previous cantilever mounts I’ve used, the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam has outperformed them in terms of stability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam
Specifications
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam is constructed from hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum. This offers a balance of lightweight design and robust durability. It is finished in black. This ensures compatibility with most firearms aesthetics. It is sold as a single unit. The beam is made in the USA, highlighting Midwest Industries’ commitment to domestic manufacturing.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The aluminum construction ensures that the beam will not add significant weight to the firearm, maintaining maneuverability. The hard coat anodizing process provides a durable, corrosion-resistant finish, essential for reliable performance in various environmental conditions. The fact that it’s made in the USA speaks to the quality control standards that Midwest Industries adheres to.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam excels at its primary function: extending the mounting position of a weapon light. This reduces or eliminates suppressor shadow. Its simple design makes it incredibly reliable. The solid construction minimizes flex and wobble. This provides a stable platform for the mounted accessory.
The beam’s strength is its simplicity; it is straightforward, rugged, and effective. The only potential area for improvement would be offering different lengths to accommodate varying suppressor diameters and handguard lengths. Overall, the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam exceeds expectations by solving the problem of suppressor shadow.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam is minimalist and functional. The hard coat anodized aluminum gives it a sleek, professional appearance. The lightweight nature of the aluminum construction ensures that it doesn’t negatively impact the firearm’s overall weight and balance.
The low-profile design minimizes snagging on gear or the environment. The M-LOK compatibility ensures that it can be easily mounted on a wide range of modern handguards. There is no real learning curve. Installation is fast and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam’s durable construction suggests that it will provide years of reliable service. The 6061 aluminum and hard coat anodized finish are known for their resistance to wear, corrosion, and impact. This translates to a long service life.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. It requires only occasional cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth. The anodized finish is resistant to most cleaning solvents. This makes upkeep a breeze.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam doesn’t come with accessories. However, it’s designed to interface seamlessly with any M-LOK compatible weapon light or accessory. This allows for a high degree of customization. Users can easily attach lights from Streamlight, SureFire, Cloud Defensive, and many other brands.
It does not offer specific customization options like different colors or textures. However, the standardized M-LOK interface means it is highly compatible with accessories from other manufacturers. This allows for tailoring the setup to specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam
Pros
- Extremely Durable: The 6061 aluminum and hard coat anodized finish can withstand harsh conditions.
- Effective Shadow Reduction: Successfully pushes the light forward to minimize or eliminate suppressor shadow.
- Lightweight Design: Adds minimal weight, preserving the weapon’s balance and handling.
- Easy Installation: The M-LOK interface makes installation quick and simple.
- Made in the USA: Ensures high quality and supports domestic manufacturing.
Cons
- Limited Length Options: Only one length available, which may not be ideal for all setups.
- No Color Options: Only available in black.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam?
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and recreational shooters who use suppressors or other muzzle devices. It’s also great for anyone wanting to optimize their weapon light placement for improved target identification. It is also great for home defense applications.
This product might not be necessary for those who don’t use suppressors or have adequate handguard space for optimal light positioning. Those seeking more specialized mounting solutions or adjustable offset mounts may also want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory is a quality M-LOK compatible weapon light. Also, consider a pressure switch to activate the light without altering your grip.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam
The Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam is a simple, well-executed solution to a common problem. It provides a durable, lightweight, and effective way to extend the mounting position of a weapon light. It minimizes suppressor shadow. Priced at $43.99, the value is exceptional given its quality and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Midwest Industries M-LOK Extended Beam to anyone struggling with suppressor shadow or seeking a simple, robust way to mount their weapon light further forward. Solve your lighting issues, improve your visibility, and enhance your shooting experience with this essential accessory.