The carry handle, a classic feature of many AR-15 style rifles, has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly among shooters looking to enhance their weapon's versatility and accuracy. While traditionally used for iron sights, the rise of red dot optics has led to the development of innovative carry handle red dot mounts. These mounts allow for the seamless integration of a red dot sight onto the rifle's carry handle, offering a unique shooting experience and distinct advantages. This guide will explore the benefits, considerations, and various types of carry handle red dot mounts available.
Why Choose a Carry Handle Red Dot Mount?
Several compelling reasons drive the increasing popularity of carry handle red dot mounts:
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Improved Eye Relief: One significant advantage is the extended eye relief provided by mounting a red dot on the carry handle. This is particularly beneficial for shooters with varying body types and shooting positions, ensuring a consistent and comfortable sight picture. The higher mounting position creates a more natural head and neck alignment, especially beneficial for extended shooting sessions.
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Enhanced Co-witnessing Capabilities: Many carry handle red dot mounts allow for co-witnessing with the rifle's iron sights. This dual sighting capability provides a backup sighting system, crucial in scenarios where the red dot malfunctions or its battery dies. This redundancy is a key element for many serious shooters.
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Unique Shooting Experience: Mounting a red dot on the carry handle provides a unique shooting experience, often preferred by those seeking a classic yet modernized setup. The higher sight picture can improve target acquisition and overall situational awareness.
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Maintaining Original Rifle Aesthetics: For those who appreciate the classic look and feel of the AR-15 with a carry handle, using a red dot mount avoids the need to remove the carry handle entirely. This preserves the rifle's original aesthetic while modernizing its capabilities.
Types of Carry Handle Red Dot Mounts
Several different types of carry handle red dot mounts cater to various needs and preferences:
Standard Carry Handle Mounts: These mounts typically attach directly to the carry handle, often utilizing existing mounting points or requiring minimal modification to the carry handle itself. They often provide a simple and robust mounting solution.
Elevated Carry Handle Mounts: These mounts offer a higher mounting position for the red dot, further enhancing eye relief and providing a more advantageous sight picture, especially when used with magnified optics.
Modular Carry Handle Mounts: Some mounts offer modularity, allowing users to easily switch between different red dot sights or other accessories. This versatility is advantageous for shooters who frequently change their optics or accessories.
Considerations Before Purchasing
Before purchasing a carry handle red dot mount, several key factors need consideration:
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Red Dot Compatibility: Ensure the mount is compatible with your specific red dot sight. Check the manufacturer's specifications to confirm compatibility with your chosen optic's footprint (e.g., Aimpoint, Trijicon, Holosun).
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Construction Materials: The mount should be constructed from high-quality materials, such as durable aluminum alloys, capable of withstanding the recoil and stress associated with firearm use.
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Weight and Balance: Consider the added weight and how it affects the overall balance of the rifle. Excessive weight can negatively impact handling and maneuverability.
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Height Over Bore: Understanding the height over bore (the distance between the bore and the center of the optic) is crucial for proper zeroing and accurate shot placement.
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Manufacturer Reputation: Choose mounts from reputable manufacturers with a proven track record of producing reliable and high-quality firearm accessories.
Conclusion
Carry handle red dot mounts offer a unique and practical solution for shooters looking to enhance their AR-15 style rifles. By carefully considering the factors discussed above and choosing a mount compatible with your specific needs and preferences, you can significantly improve your shooting experience. Remember, always prioritize safety and ensure proper installation and function before using any firearm accessory.
