Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount Review

Table of Contents

First Impressions of Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount promises a streamlined solution for running a secondary red dot alongside a magnified optic. As someone who frequently transitions between close-quarters and medium-range engagements, the appeal of instantly switching between optics is undeniable. This mount boasts compatibility with a wide range of red dot sights, offering a versatile and ambidextrous design.

I’ve been wanting to optimize my AR platform for both close-quarters drills and longer-range target acquisition without sacrificing speed or adding excessive bulk. The ability to quickly transition between a magnified optic for precision and a red dot for rapid target engagement at close range was my primary goal. I needed a solution that was robust, reliable, and didn’t compromise the rifle’s balance or handling.

Upon unboxing the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the materials and the precise machining. The SUS630 hardened stainless steel Picatinny rail mount felt exceptionally solid, and the 6061-T6 aluminum mounting plate looked equally robust. The mount feels surprisingly lightweight, a critical factor when adding accessories to a rifle.

I considered the Magpul MBUS Pro Offset Sights and the Midwest Industries Offset Rail, but ultimately chose the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount for its modularity and the promise of broad red dot compatibility. The Magpul option only offers iron sights, and the Midwest Industries rail requires a separate mount for the red dot. The Strike Industries design appeared to offer a cleaner, more integrated solution.

My initial impression of the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount is positive. I’m eager to test its durability and performance at the range. It appears to be a well-engineered piece of kit that addresses a specific need in a practical and efficient manner.

Check Best Price HERE

See on Primary Arms

Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range session with the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount involved several drills at varying distances, ranging from 7 yards to 100 yards. I tested it on my AR-15 platform alongside my LPVO and a Holosun 507C red dot sight. The conditions were typical for a Texas afternoon: sunny, slightly humid, and with a light breeze.

The transition between the LPVO and the offset red dot was remarkably smooth and intuitive. The 45-degree angle allowed for a quick roll of the rifle, bringing the red dot into view almost instantaneously. I experienced no issues with target acquisition or point of impact shift after transitioning.

The only slight issue I encountered was getting used to the new head position when using the offset red dot. After a few magazines, I quickly adapted, and the transition became second nature. The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount performed flawlessly, exceeding my initial expectations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve used it in various conditions, including rain, mud, and temperatures ranging from below freezing to well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It has held zero consistently and shown no signs of loosening or shifting.

The finish has proven to be remarkably durable, with only minor wear marks visible after considerable use. Cleaning the mount is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. The SUS630 hardened stainless steel and 6061-T6 aluminum construction has clearly held up well to the rigors of regular shooting and handling.

Compared to other offset mounting solutions I’ve used in the past, the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount is a significant improvement. It offers superior modularity, a more robust construction, and a more streamlined design. It has proven to be a worthwhile addition to my AR platform, significantly enhancing its versatility and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount

Specifications

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount features a modular dual mounting plate design compatible with most mainstream red dots. It offers a low-profile and high-strength solution for running a Mini/Micro Red Dot Sight (MRDS) alongside a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO). The ambidextrous Picatinny rail mount is constructed from SUS630 hardened stainless steel, while the mounting plate is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum.

Length: 2.05 inches. This compact size minimizes added bulk to the rifle.
Height: 2.47 inches. Provides sufficient clearance for most LPVOs.
Width: 1.05 inches. Keeps a low profile on the rail.
Weight: 1.8 oz. The lightweight design doesn’t significantly impact the rifle’s balance.
Material: SUS630 Hardened Stainless Steel (Picatinny Rail Mount) & 6061-T6 Aluminum (Mounting Plate). Ensures durability and corrosion resistance.
Color: Black. A standard finish that blends well with most firearms.
Hand: Ambidextrous. Allows for use on either side of the rifle.
Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Docter/Noblex and Aimpoint Micro Standard. Offers broad compatibility with popular red dot sights.

These specifications are important because they dictate the mount’s compatibility, durability, and impact on the rifle’s handling. The lightweight construction and robust materials contribute to the mount’s overall performance and longevity. The dual footprint design ensures compatibility with a wide range of red dot sights, providing versatility and flexibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount performs its job admirably. It securely holds the red dot sight in place, providing a stable and reliable platform for accurate shooting. The 45-degree offset allows for a quick and seamless transition between optics, significantly enhancing the rifle’s versatility.

The mount’s strengths lie in its modularity, durability, and ease of use. The dual footprint mounting plate makes it compatible with a wide range of red dot sights. The SUS630 hardened stainless steel and 6061-T6 aluminum construction ensures long-lasting durability.

One potential weakness is the compatibility issue reported by some users with the Docter/Noblex footprint. While the front two location pins may align, the bolt holes and rear pins might be slightly out of spec, potentially rendering the mount unusable with some optics. This manufacturing tolerance issue should be investigated and addressed by Strike Industries.

Overall, the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount largely meets and, in some aspects, exceeds expectations. It provides a robust and versatile solution for running a secondary red dot alongside a magnified optic. The speed and ease of transition between optics are significant advantages, making it a valuable addition to any AR platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes functionality and ergonomics. The low-profile design minimizes added bulk and ensures that the mount doesn’t interfere with the primary optic. The lightweight construction contributes to the rifle’s overall balance and handling.

The mount is relatively user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. The included hardware and clear instructions make the setup process straightforward. Some users may need to experiment with different mounting positions to find the optimal placement for their specific optic and shooting style.

The ambidextrous design is a significant advantage, allowing for use on either side of the rifle. The two mounting positions on the SI Multi-Optic Mount side provide additional flexibility in positioning the red dot sight. Overall, the design of the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount is well-executed, offering a balance of functionality, ergonomics, and aesthetics.

Durability & Maintenance

The SUS630 hardened stainless steel and 6061-T6 aluminum construction of the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount suggests that it is built to last. The finish is durable and resistant to scratches and corrosion. With proper care and maintenance, this mount should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the mount is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Periodic lubrication of the mounting screws can help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Overall, the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount is designed for long-term durability and ease of maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount comes with all the necessary hardware for installation, including screws and mounting plates. Its primary customization option is the choice of red dot sight that can be mounted.

The dual footprint mounting plate supports both the SI Multi-Optic Mount and the Aimpoint Micro Standard footprint, making it compatible with a wide range of popular red dot sights. Users can also customize the mounting position of the red dot sight by choosing between the two mounting positions on the SI Multi-Optic Mount side. Overall, the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount offers ample customization options to suit individual preferences and shooting styles.

Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount

Pros

Modular dual footprint accommodates a wide variety of red dot sights.
Constructed from durable SUS630 hardened stainless steel and 6061-T6 aluminum.
Ambidextrous design for versatile use.
Provides fast and seamless transition between LPVO and red dot.
Lightweight design doesn’t significantly impact rifle balance.

Cons

Potential compatibility issues with some Docter/Noblex footprint optics.
Some users may need time to adjust to the offset head position.

Who Should Buy Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount?

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, and competitive shooters who require a versatile and adaptable sighting system. It is also well-suited for hunters who may need to quickly transition between magnified optics for longer shots and red dot sights for close-range engagements. Anyone running an LPVO and desiring a fast close-quarters option will benefit from this mount.

This product may not be ideal for users who primarily shoot at long ranges or who do not require a secondary optic. Also, if you know you have a Doctor/Noblex cut optic, proceed with caution due to potential fitment issues. Users who are not comfortable with adjusting their head position to accommodate an offset optic may also want to consider alternative sighting solutions.

A must-have accessory for this mount is a high-quality red dot sight that is compatible with either the SI Multi-Optic Mount or the Aimpoint Micro Standard footprint. A thread locker, such as Loctite, is also recommended to ensure that the mounting screws remain secure.

Conclusion on Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount

The Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount is a well-designed and robust accessory that enhances the versatility of any AR platform. Its modularity, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for shooters who require a fast and reliable transition between optics. While there may be potential compatibility issues with some Docter/Noblex footprint optics, the overall performance and functionality of this mount are impressive.

At a price point of $70.30, the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount offers a compelling value proposition. The quality of the materials, the precise machining, and the versatile design justify the cost. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to optimize their rifle for both close-quarters and medium-range engagements.

I would personally recommend the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile offset mounting solution. It is a well-engineered piece of kit that delivers on its promises. Upgrade your AR platform today and experience the benefits of seamless optic transitions with the Strike Industries Ambush 45-Degree Optic Mount!