The Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini Made a Bold First Impression
The Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini is a simple, affordable solution for AR-15 owners looking to raise their optics. Truglo, a known name in aiming solutions, offers this mount as a way to avoid modifications or replacements to iron sights. It promises a straightforward installation and improved sight alignment for a variety of optics.
I encountered the classic AR-15 problem: my red dot sat too low to comfortably co-witness with my iron sights. I was looking for a quick, non-permanent fix that wouldn’t break the bank while I evaluated different optic setups. The Truglo riser seemed like the perfect, inexpensive test.
Unboxing the Truglo TG8980B, my initial impression was of a no-frills, functional piece. The black matte anodized finish looked clean, and the aluminum felt reasonably solid. There were no immediately obvious machining flaws or defects.
I had considered other risers, including some from UTG and Magpul. The Truglo won out due to its price point and the mostly positive user feedback emphasizing its simple effectiveness. I wasn’t necessarily looking for the best riser, but the most practical one for initial testing.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a decent piece of kit for the money, and I was eager to see if it would solve my sight alignment issue. I was slightly concerned about potential wobble or instability, but for under $20, I was willing to give the Truglo TG8980B a shot.
Real-World Testing: Putting Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Truglo TG8980B was enlightening. I mounted a Holosun HS503CU red dot on my M&P 15 Sport II, the rifle for which I purchased the riser. Installation was easy, although, like the user feedback suggested, I did apply some thread locker.
The riser immediately solved my co-witnessing issue. My red dot was now at a much more comfortable height, allowing for a quicker and more natural sight picture. The improved cheek weld was also immediately noticeable, although it did hint at the need for a cheek riser if this setup were to become permanent.
I fired about 200 rounds that first day in relatively dry conditions. The Truglo TG8980B held firm with the added thread locker. The only issue I noticed was a slight loosening of the optic itself on the riser’s picatinny rail, which required tightening between magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 1000 rounds, the Truglo TG8980B has proven surprisingly resilient. I’ve used it in various conditions, from sunny days to light rain, and it hasn’t shifted or lost zero significantly. Regular checks for tightness are still necessary, though.
There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the finish from handling and storage, but no signs of structural wear or bending. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. It doesn’t require any special maintenance.
Compared to my previous setup (no riser), the Truglo TG8980B is a substantial improvement in terms of comfort and sight acquisition speed. While it may not be as rock-solid as a more expensive, integrated rail system, it performs admirably for its price point and intended purpose. I still think about replacing the stock to further improve the ergonomics.
Breaking Down the Features of Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini
Specifications
The Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini features a simple, yet effective design. It is constructed from CNC-machined aluminum. This keeps the weight down while maintaining adequate strength.
The mount is designed to raise the Picatinny rail by approximately 0.5 inches. This creates space for improved sight alignment, particularly when using optics in conjunction with iron sights. The finish is a black matte anodized coating, providing a non-reflective surface and added resistance to corrosion.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the user’s ability to comfortably and accurately use their AR-15. The aluminum construction ensures it won’t add significant weight to the rifle. The increased height offers a more natural head position for quicker target acquisition.
Performance & Functionality
The Truglo TG8980B excels in its primary function: raising the optic to a more usable height. Accuracy is maintained as long as the optic is properly mounted and secured to the riser. Reliability has been acceptable with the addition of thread locker.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. The main weakness is the need for periodic tightening of the mounting screws. It certainly meets expectations for a budget-friendly riser.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The aluminum construction is adequate, and the matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing. The weight is negligible, so it doesn’t significantly affect the balance of the rifle.
The mount is extremely user-friendly. Installation takes only a few minutes with a basic hex wrench, and there’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
While it’s not built like a tank, the Truglo TG8980B should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Avoiding excessive abuse and regularly checking the mounting screws are key to longevity.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection for loose screws. No specialized tools or procedures are necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Truglo TG8980B is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any accessories. However, its Picatinny rail interface makes it compatible with a wide range of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and scopes.
It is designed to work seamlessly with standard AR-15 upper receivers and doesn’t require any special modifications. Its universality and ease of use are significant advantages.
Pros and Cons of Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini
Pros
- Great value for the price.
- Simple and easy to install.
- Effectively raises optics for improved sight alignment.
- Lightweight and doesn’t significantly affect rifle balance.
- Compatible with a wide range of optics.
Cons
- Requires thread locker for optimal stability.
- Mounting screws may need periodic tightening.
- Finish is prone to cosmetic scratches.
Who Should Buy Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini?
Perfect for: AR-15 owners on a budget looking for a simple way to improve their optic height and co-witness with iron sights. It’s also a good choice for those experimenting with different optic setups and don’t want to invest in expensive mounts initially. Casual range shooters and recreational users will also find it useful.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking maximum rigidity and stability for demanding applications (e.g., competitive shooting, tactical operations) might want to invest in a higher-end, more robust mount. Shooters who demand absolute precision and zero shift resistance should look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Thread locker is a must for secure mounting. Depending on the optic height and individual preferences, a cheek riser may also be beneficial for optimal cheek weld and comfort.
Conclusion on Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini
The Truglo TG8980B Picatinny Riser Mount For AR-15 Style Black Matte Anodized Fini is a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for AR-15 owners. It delivers on its promise of raising optics for improved sight alignment without breaking the bank.
The price is definitely justified for what you get: a functional, easy-to-install riser that solves a common problem. While it’s not perfect, its simplicity and low cost make it a compelling option for many AR-15 users.
I would personally recommend the Truglo TG8980B to anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to improve their AR-15 shooting experience. Grab some thread locker, give it a try, and see if it solves your sight alignment woes. It might just surprise you.