Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount Review

Let’s Talk About Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount from VISM is an intriguing piece of kit that promises to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your AR-platform rifle. It bolts onto your existing front sight post, providing a carry handle and a Picatinny riser for mounting optics. What caught my eye about the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount was its potential to offer a classic carry handle feel with the added versatility of modern optic mounting solutions, all at a very reasonable price point.

Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical and outdoor gear, I was seeking a product that could bridge the gap between old-school carry options and contemporary sighting systems. My primary goal was to find a stable and practical way to incorporate a magnified optic on a classic AR build without sacrificing the familiar carry handle. The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount seemed like a promising solution.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was mixed. The aluminum construction felt surprisingly solid for the price, and the anodized finish appeared decent. However, the overall design looked a bit…clunky. Compared to other carry handle options I’ve handled over the years, specifically those from Colt and Bravo Company, the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount felt less refined and more utilitarian.

In comparison to a traditional A2 carry handle upper receiver, the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount offers the advantage of adding a Picatinny rail for optics. It also offers a potentially more economical alternative to replacing an entire upper receiver. The downside is that it’s an add-on, and it inherently carries the potential for being less structurally sound than an integrated carry handle. Initially, I was excited about the prospect of a budget-friendly and versatile carry handle optic mounting solution. I also felt some skepticism regarding the structural integrity of the mounting system.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount at an outdoor shooting range, primarily in dry conditions. The temperature was around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. My rifle was a standard AR-15 with a 16-inch barrel. The first challenge I encountered was achieving a secure fit.

The mount felt loose, even when the bolts were tightened. I had to resort to shimming it with pieces of an old plastic gift card, a common complaint echoed in online reviews. Once adequately shimmed, it felt stable enough to proceed. I mounted a budget-friendly 1-6x LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) to the Picatinny rail. After a few initial shots, the mount remained in place. However, carrying the rifle by the handle revealed a noticeable wobble. It was clear that this was not a carry handle in the traditional sense, where you could confidently swing your rifle around.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and a few weeks of handling, the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount showed some signs of wear. The anodized finish started to wear off around the edges, particularly where the mount made contact with the front sight post. I found that the bolts needed to be checked and re-tightened frequently to maintain a semblance of stability. Cleaning the mount was straightforward, requiring only a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth.

Compared to my experiences with higher-end mounts, the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount fell short in terms of overall durability and reliability. A true, forged carry handle upper offers unparalleled rigidity. Premium aftermarket mounts provide a far more stable and confidence-inspiring platform. While the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount allowed me to mount an optic and provided a rudimentary carry handle, its performance was underwhelming.

Breaking Down the Features of Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount

Specifications

• The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount is constructed from Aluminum. This keeps the weight down, but sacrifices some durability.
• It features a Black Anodized finish for corrosion resistance. The anodizing is thin and prone to wear.
• The Picatinny riser is 5.25″ in length. This provides adequate space for mounting most optics.
• It mounts around the front sight post and to any 14.5″ length of Picatinny rail. This adds versatility, but introduces potential instability.
• The Picatinny rail riser provides a 0.5″ rise. This allows for comfortable optic alignment.
• Mounting bolts and tools are included. The included tools are basic but functional.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the mount’s stability, durability, and overall usability. The aluminum construction and thin anodizing affect its resistance to wear and tear, while the mounting system determines how securely it attaches to the rifle. The Picatinny rail length dictates the types of optics that can be accommodated, and the 0.5″ rise influences the shooter’s cheek weld and sight alignment.

Performance & Functionality

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount performs adequately as a basic optic mounting solution. It allows you to attach a scope or red dot sight to your AR-15 without requiring a complete upper receiver replacement. However, its performance is limited by its inherent instability and questionable mounting design. The mounting system is the weakest link, as it relies on a single 45-degree angle clamp.

This design doesn’t effectively convert horizontal force into vertical pressure, leading to a loose fit that necessitates shimming. This could potentially cause the screw holes to become egg-shaped, or the screws themselves bending. It meets the basic expectation of providing an optic mounting platform, but falls short in terms of stability and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount features a functional, albeit somewhat clunky design. The aluminum construction keeps the weight manageable. The carry handle itself is reasonably comfortable to grip, though the overall balance feels off when carrying the rifle. The Picatinny rail is adequately sized and allows for easy attachment of optics.

There is a slight learning curve associated with properly shimming and tightening the mount, but once it’s installed, it’s relatively straightforward to use. However, the wobble and lack of rigidity detract from the overall user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount is not built for heavy use or extreme conditions. The thin anodized finish is prone to scratching and wear. The aluminum construction is adequate for light to moderate use, but it may not withstand the rigors of tactical applications. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of the bolts.

However, the long-term durability of the mounting system is questionable, particularly if subjected to repeated stress or impacts. With proper care and light use, the Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount should last for a reasonable amount of time. It’s probably not a purchase for someone expecting to abuse it in a tactical or competition setting.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount comes with the necessary mounting bolts and tools. No other accessories are included. It is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail-mounted optic.

There are no additional customization options available for the mount itself, besides painting it. However, it can be used in conjunction with various AR-15 accessories such as backup iron sights, foregrips, and weapon lights. The Picatinny riser is a great height for combat scopes, ACOG, and ELCAN.

Pros and Cons of Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount

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Who Should Buy Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount?

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want to add a carry handle and optic mounting capability to their AR-15 without breaking the bank. It is also suitable for those building “space gun” novelty builds. Casual range shooters and recreational users who prioritize affordability over ultimate reliability may find it adequate for their needs.

Those who require a rock-solid, dependable optic mounting solution for tactical applications or competitive shooting should skip this product. Users needing to carry their rifle frequently or under harsh conditions should also consider alternative options.

Must-have accessories or modifications include:

• Shims: Be prepared to use shims to achieve a secure fit.
• Thread Locker: Applying thread locker to the bolts can help prevent them from loosening over time.

Conclusion on Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount

The Vism BlastAR Carry Handle Mount is a budget-friendly accessory that offers a basic carry handle and optic mounting solution for AR-15 rifles. It is priced at $51.99. Its affordability is its primary selling point. However, its questionable stability and durability limitations make it unsuitable for serious tactical applications.

The value proposition is debatable. For those on a tight budget, it may provide a temporary solution. However, investing in a higher-quality mount or a complete upper receiver with an integrated carry handle is a better long-term investment.

Personally, I would not recommend it for anyone who prioritizes reliability and performance. While it may serve its purpose for casual use or novelty builds, its inherent flaws outweigh its cost savings. If you’re serious about your rifle, save up and invest in a better option. Explore alternative options and consider investing in a more robust and reliable carry handle or optic mounting system. Your rifle (and your peace of mind) will thank you.