Introduction
The AR-15, an iconic firearm, is more than just a rifle; it’s a canvas for customization. From upgraded triggers to elaborate handguards, the AR-15’s modular design allows for endless personalization. Among the myriad of accessories available, one often overlooked element plays a crucial role in enhancing your rifle’s functionality: the carry handle mount. This guide delves deep into the world of the Weaver carry handle mount, exploring its benefits, types, installation, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the AR-15 platform, understanding the Weaver carry handle mount is a step towards optimizing your rifle for your specific needs.
What is a Weaver Carry Handle Mount?
The Weaver carry handle mount is essentially a specialized mounting system designed to attach optics and accessories to the carry handle of an AR-15 rifle. The carry handle itself, a defining feature of many AR-15 variants, served as the primary sighting system for the early models. With the evolution of firearms technology, the carry handle has evolved.
At its core, the Weaver carry handle mount utilizes the Weaver rail system. The Weaver rail is a standardized mounting platform, characterized by its series of horizontal slots and its standardized dimensions. The slots are spaced to allow for a wide range of mounting options, including scopes, red dot sights, and other accessories. The Weaver rail system, while similar to the Picatinny rail, often has a slightly different spacing and, sometimes, less stringent dimensional tolerances.
In contrast to the current trend of having a rail system integrated into the upper receiver, the carry handle mount provides a specific interface. This system allows shooters to mount optics directly onto the familiar carry handle, a feature still present on a significant number of AR-15 rifles. It’s a bridge between the past and the present, allowing you to modernize your rifle while retaining a classic aesthetic.
Benefits of Using a Weaver Carry Handle Mount
Why choose a Weaver carry handle mount over alternative mounting solutions? The advantages are several, catering to various shooter preferences and operational needs.
Increased Sight Radius: One of the key benefits of using a Weaver carry handle mount is the potential for an increased sight radius. Mounting your optic on the carry handle pushes it further away from your eye, resulting in a longer sight radius. This can lead to improved accuracy, particularly at longer ranges, as it provides a clearer visual separation between the front sight, the rear sight (or the optic’s reticle), and the target.
Versatility for Optics: The Weaver carry handle mount provides a versatile platform for mounting a wide range of optics. Whether you prefer a traditional scope with magnification for precision shooting or a red dot sight for rapid target acquisition, the mount can accommodate them. This flexibility allows you to tailor your rifle’s optics setup to your specific shooting style and the intended application.
Ease of Installation: Compared to some other mounting methods, installing a Weaver carry handle mount can often be a straightforward process. The design often relies on simple clamping mechanisms, making it relatively easy to attach and detach the mount without complex tools or modifications to your rifle. This ease of installation makes it an attractive option for those who prefer a quick and hassle-free upgrade.
Traditional Look and Feel: For some AR-15 enthusiasts, the carry handle itself and the associated mounting system evoke a sense of nostalgia and respect for the rifle’s history. The Weaver carry handle mount allows you to maintain this classic aesthetic while still taking advantage of modern optics technology.
Maintains Backup Iron Sights: Depending on the design of the Weaver carry handle mount and the selected optic, it may be possible to retain the use of your rifle’s iron sights. Some mounts are designed to allow you to see through the optic, thus providing a backup sighting system that’s always available if your primary optic fails.
Types of Weaver Carry Handle Mounts
Single-Piece Mounts
Single-piece Weaver carry handle mounts offer a robust and often more secure mounting solution. These mounts are typically constructed from a single block of material, providing increased rigidity and stability compared to their multi-piece counterparts. The single-piece design minimizes the number of potential points of failure. The use of quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum or steel further enhances the durability of these mounts. However, the single-piece design might weigh more compared to other options. When choosing a single-piece mount, consider the material. Aluminum offers a good balance of weight and strength, while steel provides maximum durability.
Two-Piece Mounts
Two-piece Weaver carry handle mounts provide an alternative approach to mounting optics. They are typically composed of two separate pieces that clamp onto the carry handle. One piece is often designed to clamp to the front and the other the rear of the carry handle. While they may be easier to install compared to their single-piece counterparts, the connection between the two pieces might not be as rigid. As such, they could be prone to shifting under recoil, potentially affecting the zero of your optic. The two-piece design may offer some flexibility in terms of positioning, allowing you to adjust the optic’s placement.
Quick Detach Mounts
Quick detach (QD) Weaver carry handle mounts offer the advantage of being able to rapidly remove and reattach the optic without needing tools or re-zeroing the sight. QD mounts incorporate a lever or other mechanism that allows them to be quickly detached from the carry handle. This feature is especially useful in situations where you need to quickly switch between different optics or when you need to perform maintenance on your rifle. However, QD mounts can be more expensive than other mount types, and there’s always a slight risk of a shift in zero when reattaching the optic.
Choosing the Right Weaver Carry Handle Mount
Selecting the appropriate Weaver carry handle mount involves considering several factors to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance.
Compatibility:
First, verify that the mount is compatible with your carry handle. Most standard AR-15 carry handles will accept a Weaver carry handle mount, but it’s essential to double-check the specifications.
Next, consider the optic you plan to use. Ensure that the mount’s rail system (e.g., Weaver) is compatible with the base of your scope or red dot sight. The mount should be able to securely accommodate the weight and dimensions of your optic.
Material and Construction:
Choose a mount made from durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum or steel. These materials offer superior strength and resistance to wear and tear.
Assess the build quality. Look for mounts that are precision-machined and feature a solid design, ensuring that the optic will stay securely mounted under recoil.
Ease of Installation:
Review the installation instructions before purchasing. Select a mount that is relatively easy to install, with clear instructions and any required tools.
Some mounts might require minimal tools, while others may require specialized tools.
Budget:
Set a realistic budget before you start shopping. Weaver carry handle mounts come in a variety of price ranges.
Consider the value for money. In some instances, it’s worthwhile investing in a higher-quality mount to ensure longevity and reliability.
Brand Reputation and Reviews:
Research well-known brands in the firearms industry, known for producing quality mounts.
Read customer reviews from various sources to gain insights into the mount’s performance, reliability, and customer service.
Installation Guide
Installing a Weaver carry handle mount is typically a straightforward process.
Preparation:
Ensure your rifle is unloaded, and the magazine well is clear.
Gather the necessary tools. This might include a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
Mounting Process:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
Attach the mount to the carry handle.
Secure the mount using the provided screws or clamping mechanisms.
Attaching the Optic:
Mount the optic to the Weaver rail on the mount.
Tighten the screws on the optic base. Ensure the optic is aligned properly.
Torque Specifications (If Applicable):
Some mounts or optics require specific torque values for the screws. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Over-tightening can damage your optic or mount, and under-tightening can cause it to come loose.
Zeroing Your Optic with a Carry Handle Mount
After installing the Weaver carry handle mount and optic, you’ll need to zero your scope or red dot.
General Overview:
The process involves adjusting the optic’s windage and elevation settings so that your point of impact matches your point of aim.
Using a Bore Sighter (Optional):
A bore sighter can help with initial alignment. It can reduce the number of rounds needed to zero your optic.
Live Fire Zeroing:
Set up a target at a known distance.
Fire a group of shots.
Adjust the windage and elevation turrets on your optic.
Achieving Proper Zero:
Continue firing groups of shots and making adjustments until your point of impact consistently matches your point of aim.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance extends the life and performance of your Weaver carry handle mount.
Regularly clean the mount to remove dirt, debris, and any other contaminants.
Inspect for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose parts.
Check the screws periodically to ensure they are still tight.
Avoid over-tightening screws, as this can damage the mount or the optic.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While the Weaver carry handle mount offers many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to be aware of.
Potential for Interference:
The mount can potentially interfere with the operation of certain accessories or features. For example, it could affect magazine ejection or interfere with the charging handle.
Sight Height Over Bore:
The Weaver carry handle mount increases the distance between the optic and the bore of the rifle.
This increases the “sight height over bore.” You must understand this, especially when shooting at close ranges, as it will affect your point of impact.
Aesthetics:
The carry handle is not always the most modern look.
Comparison to Modern Alternatives:
Consider the advantages of a modern rail system. A rail system on the upper receiver offers many advantages (more versatility).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Weaver carry handle mounts reliable?
Yes, quality Weaver carry handle mounts are generally reliable. Choose mounts from reputable brands.
Do Weaver carry handle mounts affect accuracy?
No, the mount itself does not reduce accuracy. However, any potential zero shift would impact accuracy.
What optics are compatible with a Weaver carry handle mount?
Any optic that has the Weaver mount is compatible.
Conclusion
The Weaver carry handle mount is a practical and effective solution for mounting optics to your AR-15 rifle. By understanding its features, advantages, and considerations, you can select the right mount and optimize your rifle for your specific needs. While newer mounting solutions are available, the Weaver carry handle mount provides a solid foundation. If you are looking to modernize your AR-15 with an optic, while maintaining a classic aesthetic, the Weaver carry handle mount is a viable option.
Resources
Manufacturer Websites (e.g., Leapers, UTG, etc.)
Online Retailers (e.g., Brownells, MidwayUSA, etc.)
Firearms Forums (e.g., AR15.com)
