Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100 Review

The Truth About Using the Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100

As someone who has spent over a decade putting gear through its paces in everything from rugged outdoor excursions to the sterile precision of a laboratory bench, I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t. My search for a low-profile optic mounting solution for my Remington 870 and 1100 shotguns led me to the Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100. The promise of a streamlined, unobtrusive mount that would keep my optics close to the rib, without adding bulk or height, was exactly what I needed for those situations where maintaining a low silhouette is paramount, especially when hunting game that might spook at unnatural angles.

The initial impression of these mounts, upon unboxing, was one of cautious optimism. The 6061-T6 Aluminum construction felt solid enough, and the black, satin finish was indeed appealingly non-reflective. This is a critical factor for hunting applications, where any glint could alert your quarry. I had briefly considered other see-through mounts from brands like Weaver or Leupold, but Aimtech’s specific design, which wraps around the rib pillars, seemed to offer a more integrated and less obtrusive solution. My first reaction was one of curiosity mixed with a practical appreciation for its apparent simplicity; the goal was to get the optic as low as possible without compromising stability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested this mount on my Remington 870 Magnum Express, a platform I’ve used extensively for both upland bird hunting and clay shooting. The scenario was a crisp autumn morning, setting up for dove season, where quick target acquisition and a low shooting stance are key. The installation process was straightforward, requiring no gunsmithing, and took only a few minutes. I found the mounts gripped the factory rib securely.

The low profile was immediately apparent; the 2-piece rib mount design truly hugged the shotgun’s rib, making the optic appear almost as part of the firearm. In terms of ease of use, it was intuitive. The biggest surprise was how minimal the visual impact was, allowing for a natural cheek weld, which is crucial for consistent shooting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and a couple of early hunting excursions, the Aimtech mounts performed adequately for their intended purpose. They held zero on a relatively lightweight red dot sight, and the low mounting height facilitated a comfortable shooting position. However, the story took a turn during extended use. After approximately the seventh shot while sighting in a new optic, I experienced a significant mechanical failure.

The screws that secure the mount to the rib began to strip, rendering the mount unstable. This was a clear indication of a manufacturing or material defect, especially given the relatively light recoil of a 12-gauge shotgun in this context. The aluminum, while lightweight, seemed to have succumbed to the pressure. Consequently, the maintenance and care required became a point of concern; while cleaning them was easy, their inherent durability under repeated stress was questionable. Compared to more robust steel mounts or even higher-quality aluminum alternatives I’ve used on other firearms, these fell short in terms of long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100

Specifications

The Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100 is designed for a specific purpose: to provide the lowest possible optic mounting height on Remington 870 and 1100 shotguns. Manufactured from 6061-T6 Aluminum, these mounts are notably lightweight, weighing in at just 3 oz for the pair. Each mount in the pair has a width of 1 inch, and they are designed to attach to the shotgun’s rib, wrapping around or butting up against the rib pillars.

The two-piece design offers flexibility, with options for short “double” bases (RRHD series) or a single longer base (RRHS series), although the product description and user feedback suggest the former is more common. The black, satin finish is intended to be non-reflective and aesthetically pleasing. The overall length of each base is approximately 4 inches, providing just enough real estate for optic ring clamps. These specifications highlight a focus on low profile and lightweight construction, which are crucial for maintaining the shotgun’s handling characteristics.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this mount is indeed to position optics as low as possible, and in this regard, it largely succeeds. When initially installed, the optic sat exceptionally close to the shotgun’s rib, allowing for a very natural cheek weld, which is paramount for consistent aiming, especially with fast-moving targets like birds in flight. This is where the concept of a “see-through scope mount” truly shines, allowing you to retain the ability to use the iron sights if needed, though the low profile might make this awkward depending on the optic and its rings.

However, the core functionality of the mount is severely undermined by its durability issues. The stripped screws and subsequent instability after minimal use point to a significant weakness in performance. While it functioned perfectly for the first few shots, its unbelievably neat and functional promise quickly dissolved into mechanical failure. The mount is not recommended for rifle scopes due to its short eye relief, but it might be suitable for holographic sights or pistol scopes where eye relief is less of a concern and the weight savings are more advantageous, provided the durability issue can be addressed.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Aimtech 2pc Low Rider mount is undeniably clever in its pursuit of the lowest possible profile. The way it grips the rib and wraps around the pillars gives the impression that the mount almost disappears when installed, a sleek aesthetic that hunters often appreciate. The eye-pleasing satin finish is a thoughtful touch, avoiding the glare that can spook game.

Ergonomically, the low mounting height is its greatest asset, allowing for a more natural and comfortable shooting posture. However, the reliance on small screws for securing the mount, combined with the aluminum construction, presents an ergonomic and design flaw. The ease of stripping these screws means that even with careful handling, the mount’s stability is compromised. This makes the overall usability and perceived sturdiness of the product quite low, despite its appealing initial appearance.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100 is, unfortunately, its Achilles’ heel. While the aluminum construction makes it lightweight, it also appears to be less robust than necessary for a firearm accessory. The stripping screws after only seven shots is a critical failure point, indicating that this product is not built for sustained use or even moderate recoil.

Maintenance is relatively simple; wiping down the aluminum with a cloth is straightforward. However, the real issue lies in its longevity. It seems these mounts are best suited for very light use, perhaps for optics that have minimal recoil or for applications where they are removed and reinstalled infrequently. Any significant stress or repeated firing cycles appear to push the material and its fastening points beyond their limits, making them less than ideal for any serious or regular use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100 is sold as a pair of mounts, with the two pieces forming the core of the product. The description notes that the RRHD series allows for clamps to be attached to each base, implying that separate optic rings or bases are required to complete the setup. This is typical for this type of mount, as it provides flexibility in choosing the specific rings that will hold your optic.

There aren’t typically additional accessories included with these mounts. Customization, in this context, refers to the selection of appropriate optic rings that will work with the 1-inch wide bases. Users will need to ensure their chosen rings are compatible with a two-piece mounting system and are designed for the diameter of their particular optic. This product focuses on being the foundation for your optic setup, rather than a complete solution.

Pros and Cons of Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100

Who Should Buy Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100?

This mount is best suited for individuals who prioritize an extremely low optic mounting height above all else, and perhaps only plan to use it for very light duty or with optics that produce minimal recoil. It might be considered by a hobbyist who understands the limitations and is willing to experiment with potentially replacing the screws with higher-grade hardware, or those who only intend to use it for a single, specific application with a holographic sight or red dot.

However, serious hunters or shooters who require reliable performance and durability for their firearms should likely avoid this product. Those who need a dependable mount for active hunting, competition, or repeated range use would be better served by more robust and proven mounting systems, even if they are slightly taller or more expensive. Users requiring precision for rifle scopes should look elsewhere due to the restrictive eye relief.

Conclusion on Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100

The Aimtech 2pc Low Rider for Remington 870/1100/1100 presents a fascinating paradox: it excels in its primary design goal of achieving an incredibly low optic mount, which is a significant advantage for specific shooting disciplines, particularly shotgun hunting. The lightweight aluminum construction and non-reflective finish are also commendable features that align well with its intended use. However, this admirable design is fundamentally let down by a critical failure in durability.

The experience of stripped screws and an unstable mount after just a handful of shots cannot be overlooked. This raises serious questions about the long-term reliability and safety of this product. While the initial price of $49.99 might seem reasonable for a specialized mount, the immediate mechanical failure makes it poor value for money. Therefore, I would only recommend this product to those who understand its significant limitations and are willing to accept the risk of premature failure, or perhaps for applications where recoil is exceptionally minimal and consistent stability is not paramount. For most serious users, investing in a more durable and reliable mounting solution is strongly advised.