The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small Made a Bold First Impression
As an avid AK enthusiast and someone who appreciates the importance of a reliable and streamlined sighting system, I was immediately intrigued by the Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small. Boasting the title of the “smallest, lightest, and beefiest” red dot mount, the Texas Weapon Systems offering promised to enhance the AK platform without adding unnecessary bulk. I’ve always felt that many optics mounting solutions for the AK platform are overly complex and add too much weight, so the promise of a minimalist and robust option was very appealing.
My quest for the perfect AK optic mount stems from a desire to modernize my older rifles without sacrificing their original feel and balance. I’ve struggled with side rail mounts that often interfere with the folding stock or require removing the optic for cleaning. The BDM1 presented a potential solution to this persistent problem.
Upon receiving the Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small, my initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. The hard black anodized finish looked exceptionally durable, and the weight – or rather, lack thereof – was immediately noticeable. Holding it, I could tell the build quality was excellent, with precise machining and no visible imperfections. It just felt right.
I considered other mounts like the RS Regulate AKM series, known for their modularity, and some of the larger railed dust covers. Ultimately, I chose the BDM1 due to its significantly lower profile and promise of superior weight savings. My first thought was that this could provide faster target acquisition with less bulk.
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small delivered on its promise of being small and light, exceeding my initial expectations. This mount felt like a quality piece of engineering.
Real-World Testing: Putting Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local range, where I mounted the BDM1 on my trusty AK-47. The mount was paired with a Holosun HS403B micro dot sight. I spent the day running drills, focusing on rapid target acquisition and transitioning between targets at varying distances. The weather was dry and sunny, offering ideal conditions for testing.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. The BDM1 provided a solid and stable platform for the Holosun, holding zero consistently throughout the day’s shooting. With a lower 1/3 co-witness, I could still utilize my iron sights if needed. It felt intuitive and required no real adjustment period.
The first-time use revealed no immediate issues. The mount performed as advertised, securely holding the optic and facilitating accurate and rapid shooting. This was a fantastic addition to my AK rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small continues to impress. It has become an integral part of my AK’s setup. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a dusty training course and during a rainy hunting trip.
The BDM1 has proven to be incredibly durable, showing no signs of wear or loosening. It has maintained its zero even after hundreds of rounds and rough handling. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with bulkier mounts, the BDM1 offers a superior shooting experience. It is lightweight, streamlined, and exceptionally reliable. It significantly enhances the usability of my AK platform.
Breaking Down the Features of Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small
Specifications
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small boasts impressive specifications for its size. It is designed specifically for AK-47 rifles and features a hard black anodized finish for enhanced durability. The mount offers a lower 1/3 co-witness with standard AK iron sights.
- Manufacturer: Texas Weapon Systems.
- Color: Black.
- Finish: Hard Black Anodized.
- Gun Model: AK-47.
- Gun Type: Rifle.
- Co-Witness: Lower 1/3.
- Weight: 1.3 oz. This is a significant factor, ensuring minimal impact on the rifle’s overall balance.
- Attachment/Mount Type: AK Mount.
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This aluminum alloy is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio.
- Width: 4.5 in.
- Included Accessories: Standard mounting hardware.
- Country of Origin: USA.
These specifications are critical because they directly contribute to the BDM1’s performance and user experience. The lightweight design ensures minimal impact on the rifle’s handling, while the durable materials guarantee long-lasting reliability. The lower 1/3 co-witness allows for seamless integration with iron sights, providing a backup sighting option.
Performance & Functionality
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small excels in its primary function: providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting micro dot sights on AK-47 rifles. Its low profile and lightweight design enhance the rifle’s overall handling and maneuverability. The lower 1/3 co-witness is a significant advantage, allowing users to seamlessly transition between the optic and iron sights.
The BDM1’s greatest strength is its simplicity and robust design. One notable area for improvement might be offering different height options for optics that don’t perfectly align with the lower 1/3 co-witness. Overall, the mount meets and exceeds expectations, delivering exceptional performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The BDM1 features a minimalist and functional design. The 6061-T6 aluminum construction provides excellent strength and durability without adding unnecessary weight. The hard black anodized finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides excellent corrosion resistance.
The mount is incredibly user-friendly. The simple and intuitive design makes it easy to install, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small is built to last. The robust construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The hard black anodized finish provides excellent protection against scratches and corrosion.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient to keep the mount clean and functioning properly. No special tools or cleaning agents are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, but it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of micro dot sights, including those from Aimpoint, Holosun, and Sig Sauer. Its primary function is to provide a rock-solid mounting platform, and it does so exceptionally well.
While there aren’t many inherent customization options, the compatibility with various micro dot sights allows users to tailor the sighting system to their specific needs and preferences. The fact that it’s compatible with a wide variety of optics enhances its overall versatility.
Pros and Cons of Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small
Pros
- Extremely lightweight (1.3 oz). Maintains the AK’s balance and maneuverability.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction. Ensures long-lasting reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Lower 1/3 co-witness. Allows for seamless integration with iron sights, providing a backup sighting option.
- Easy to install. Requires minimal gunsmithing experience.
- Minimalist design. Streamlines the AK platform and reduces unnecessary bulk.
Cons
- Limited customization options beyond optic choice.
- Lower 1/3 co-witness may not be ideal for all users or optics.
Who Should Buy Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small?
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small is perfect for AK enthusiasts who value lightweight design, rugged durability, and reliable performance. It is ideally suited for tactical shooters, hunters, and anyone looking to modernize their AK platform without adding unnecessary bulk. Those prioritizing streamlined ergonomics for fast handling and accurate aiming will benefit greatly.
Those who should skip this product are users who need a full-length rail system for multiple accessories. Also, if you need a QD (quick detach) system for your optic, this isn’t the mount for you.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality micro dot sight that is compatible with the BDM1, such as the Aimpoint Micro series or the Holosun HS403B.
Conclusion on Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small
The Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small is a fantastic product that delivers on its promise of being the smallest, lightest, and beefiest red dot mount for AK rifles. It offers a compelling combination of lightweight design, rugged durability, and reliable performance. The value proposition is excellent, given its exceptional quality and functionality for the price.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Texas Weapon Systems BDM1 Bitty Dot Mount for Micro Dot Sights, Black, Small to anyone looking to enhance their AK platform with a streamlined and dependable micro dot mounting solution. If you value simplicity, durability, and lightweight design, this mount is an absolute must-have. Upgrade your AK today and experience the difference a quality mount can make!