Why I Chose the Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1: A Hands-On Review
For years, my trusty Remington 1100 has been my go-to shotgun for everything from upland bird hunting to busting clays. But as my needs evolved, particularly with the increasing coyote population near my property, I needed a reliable way to mount an optic for more precise aiming at longer ranges. The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 promised a simple, stable, and non-destructive solution.
My primary goal was to enhance the versatility of my Remington 1100 without permanently altering the firearm. I wanted the ability to quickly attach and detach optics for different hunting scenarios, something difficult to achieve with traditional drilling and tapping. I was drawn to the Aimtech mount because it claimed to offer a rock-solid platform while maintaining the option to revert to the original setup.
Upon unboxing the Aimtech mount, I was immediately impressed by the apparent quality of the materials and the clean, satin black finish. The mount felt substantial, hinting at its durability, but surprisingly lightweight for its size. The included installation hardware, along with the provided Allen wrenches, suggested a straightforward installation process.
I considered a few alternatives, including side-saddle mounts and receiver-drilled options. Ultimately, I chose the Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 for its purported ease of installation and its “vee-way” design, which promised to maintain the use of the shotgun’s bead sight. This was a crucial factor, as I didn’t want to completely sacrifice my ability to use the shotgun in its original configuration.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I’ve had mixed experiences with aftermarket shotgun accessories in the past, so I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. The mount looked promising, but the proof would be in the installation and performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 was at my local shooting range. I mounted a red dot sight, and ran through a few boxes of shells. I tested different loads from light target loads to heavier buckshot.
The weather was dry, but the range was a bit dusty. I monitored the mount closely for any signs of shifting or loosening. To my surprise, the Aimtech mount held zero consistently throughout my initial session.
Installation was surprisingly easy, taking less than 15 minutes. The fit was snug, requiring a bit of maneuvering but ultimately resulting in a secure attachment. I was particularly pleased that the mount didn’t interfere with the shotgun’s action or handling.
One minor issue I noticed was that the provided screws required careful tightening to avoid stripping the heads. I made sure to use the correct Allen wrench size and apply even pressure. Overall, the initial experience was positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 has proven to be a reliable addition to my Remington 1100. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips, including some in moderately wet conditions. I have experienced no issues with rust or corrosion on the mount.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The satin black finish is holding up well, with only a few minor scratches from handling. I regularly clean the mount with a CLP (cleaner, lubricant, protectant) to prevent any buildup of dirt or grime.
Compared to some other shotgun mounts I’ve used, the Aimtech mount is noticeably more stable and secure. I have experienced less zero drift, even with heavier recoil loads. It has exceeded my initial expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1
Specifications
The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 is specifically designed for the Remington 1100 and 11-87 12-gauge shotguns. It’s crafted from 6061-T6 aluminum, providing a lightweight yet robust platform for mounting optics. The mount features a satin black finish for corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
The mount accepts Weaver-style rings, offering compatibility with a wide range of optics. It weighs in at approximately 6 ounces. It measures roughly 8 inches in length and 2 inches in width.
The design incorporates an inverted “vee-way”, which centers the mount over the receiver while still allowing the use of the shotgun’s bead sight. The mount attaches via screws, providing a secure and stable connection. These specifications are crucial for a stable and repeatable zero.
Performance & Functionality
The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 performs admirably in its intended role of providing a stable optic mounting platform. The mount sits securely on the receiver, minimizing any potential for movement or shifting. This helps maintain zero and accuracy with mounted optics.
One of its strengths is the ease of installation, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge. The inverted “vee-way” design is another advantage, as it allows for continued use of the shotgun’s bead sight. The only real weakness is the potential for stripping the screw heads during installation.
It meets my expectations. It provides a stable and versatile platform for mounting optics on my Remington 1100.
Design & Ergonomics
The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 boasts a simple, functional design that complements the aesthetics of the Remington 1100/11-87 shotgun. The use of 6061-T6 aluminum ensures a lightweight yet durable construction. Its satin black finish blends seamlessly with the shotgun’s factory finish.
The mount does not significantly alter the shotgun’s balance or handling characteristics. However, some users may find that it slightly interferes with the operation of the charging handle, particularly when using larger optics. The installation is relatively straightforward, but users should exercise caution when tightening the screws to avoid stripping the heads.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, the Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The satin black finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term durability in various environmental conditions. The mount should last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a CLP (cleaner, lubricant, protectant) to remove dirt, grime, and powder residue. Regular inspection of the mounting screws is recommended to ensure they remain tight and secure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. It accepts Weaver-style rings, providing compatibility with a wide variety of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and traditional scopes.
There are no other officially supported customization options for the mount itself. However, users can personalize their setup by selecting different types of Weaver-style rings to achieve the desired optic height and eye relief. Compatibility with third-party accessories is generally good, as long as they adhere to the Weaver standard.
Pros and Cons of Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1
Pros
- Easy installation with included hardware.
- Stable and secure optic mounting platform.
- Allows continued use of the shotgun’s bead sight.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction.
- Accepts widely available Weaver-style rings.
Cons
- Potential for stripping screw heads during installation.
- May slightly interfere with the operation of the charging handle.
- No integrated recoil lug or other enhanced stability features.
Who Should Buy Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1?
The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 is perfect for hunters and sport shooters. It is great for those who want to add an optic to their Remington 1100 or 11-87 shotgun without permanent modifications. This product is great for those who value ease of installation and the ability to retain the use of the shotgun’s bead sight.
This mount is not ideal for individuals who require the absolute most stable and recoil-resistant mounting platform. It may not be the best choice for those who plan to use extremely heavy or high-magnification optics.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of Weaver-style rings to ensure a secure and repeatable optic mount. An oversized charging handle may also be beneficial for those who find that the mount interferes with the factory charging handle.
Conclusion on Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1
The Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 is a well-designed and functional accessory that enhances the versatility of the Remington 1100 and 11-87 shotguns. It offers a stable and easy-to-install platform for mounting optics without requiring permanent modifications. The fact that it allows the user to still see the bead sight makes it a practical choice.
At a price of $53.49, the Aimtech mount offers a good value proposition. It provides a significant upgrade in functionality without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Aimtech Black Mount For Remington 1100/11-87 12 Gauge ASM1 to anyone looking to add an optic to their Remington 1100 or 11-87 shotgun. Just be careful when tightening the screws! Elevate your shotgun’s potential today!