Grit & Gear: Testing the Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount
As an engineer and an avid shooter, I’m constantly on the lookout for gear that offers reliable performance without demanding an exorbitant price tag. My recent quest for an elevated optic mount led me to the Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount. The need arose from wanting to achieve an absolute co-witness with my Trijicon RMR on a specific rifle build, and many available options were either astronomically expensive or lacked the robustness I demand. My initial impression upon handling this mount was surprisingly positive; the machining felt precise, and the aircraft-grade aluminum construction, finished in a matte black anodize, lent it an air of quality that belied its modest price point. I’d briefly considered other, more premium brands, but the allure of UTG’s improving reputation and the specific co-witness height pushed me towards this particular option. It offered a welcome sense of practical ingenuity, a relief from the usual market overpricing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds were the familiar confines of my home workshop and the shooting range. The Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount was mounted to a Picatinny rail on an AR-15 platform rifle. The installation process was straightforward, aided by the included Torx screws and what felt like good thread engagement. Even with some minor environmental dust present in my workshop, the mount’s matte finish resisted fingerprints and maintained a clean appearance.
After mounting, I proceeded to the range for function testing. The absolute co-witness height proved accurate, aligning perfectly with my iron sights at the 25-yard line. Recoil from live fire was handled with surprising stability; the integral recoil stops did their job effectively. The mount felt intuitively designed, requiring no special acclimatization period. My only immediate quirk was noting the slightly unusual size of the included mounting screws for the optic itself, which I’ll detail later.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months and approximately 2,000 rounds of mixed ammunition through two separate rifles, the Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount has held its own remarkably well. Each mount has maintained its zero without any perceivable shift or loosening. There are no visible signs of stress on the aluminum, no cracks, and the finish remains consistent.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth or a lightly oiled rag is sufficient to keep it clean. The 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction has proven resilient to the typical bumps and scrapes encountered during range days and general handling. Compared to some budget mounts that can develop play or flex under recoil, this UTG unit has consistently outperformed expectations, performing on par with more expensive alternatives I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount
Specifications
The Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount is meticulously machined from 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum, a standard for quality and durability in the firearms industry. It boasts a 0.87-inch saddle height, critical for achieving that desired absolute co-witness with red dot sights like the Trijicon RMR. The mount measures a compact 1.78 inches in length and is designed with significant lightening cuts to reduce its overall weight to a mere 1.5 ounces, making it exceptionally lightweight. The finish is a durable matte black anodize, which offers both aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance.
These specifications directly translate into practical benefits for the end-user. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum ensures the mount is both strong enough to withstand recoil and light enough not to add unnecessary bulk to a firearm. The precise 0.87-inch saddle height is the key feature for achieving an absolute co-witness, allowing the shooter to use their iron sights directly through the optic’s lower field of view. The locking Torx screws and integral recoil stops are designed for a secure zero hold, preventing the optic from shifting under the stresses of firing.
Performance & Functionality
At its core, the primary function of the Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount is to securely attach an RMR-footprint optic to a Picatinny rail at a specific height for absolute co-witness. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The mount provides a stable platform, and my RMR remained firmly seated throughout extensive live-fire testing. The absolute co-witness was precisely as advertised, allowing for seamless transitions between the red dot and iron sights.
The strengths of this mount lie in its robust construction, precise machining, and effective co-witness height, especially considering its price. It delivers solid reliability for its intended purpose. A noted weakness, however, pertains to the included optic mounting screws. While the mount itself is well-executed, the screws provided for attaching the RMR to the mount had a massive flat head which, in my experience, intruded into the RMR’s sight picture and interfered with accessing the optic’s battery compartment. This significantly detracts from the ease of use for the RMR itself, though it doesn’t diminish the mount’s own functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount emphasizes a lightweight, low-profile aesthetic. The significant lightening cuts not only reduce weight but also contribute to a modern, tactical appearance. The matte black anodize finish is uniform and pleasing to the eye, resisting glare effectively.
Ergonomically, the mount itself is straightforward once installed. The concern is less with the mount’s ergonomics and more with the interaction of the included optic mounting hardware. The locking Torx screws for securing the mount to the rail are well-sized and provide good leverage for tightening. However, the flat-headed optic mounting screws were not only awkward to use but also functionally problematic for my RMR. The overall feel of the mount is solid, indicating good engineering and manufacturing.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended testing, the Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount appears to be built for durability. The 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum is inherently resistant to corrosion and deformation, and the matte anodize finish adds another layer of protection. I anticipate this mount will last for many thousands of rounds of use without issue, provided it’s installed correctly.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Cleaning involves wiping down the exterior surfaces to remove dust or debris. There are no complex mechanisms or delicate parts to worry about. The integral recoil stops and the design of the mounting slots for the Picatinny rail are robust and show no signs of premature wear. The primary maintenance concern, as noted, relates to the optic-specific mounting hardware, not the mount itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount comes with a set of mounting screws for attaching it to a Picatinny rail, along with an Allen wrench for these screws. It also includes screws intended for mounting an RMR-footprint optic onto the mount itself. These optic mounting screws are a crucial accessory, and as previously mentioned, their design in my specific package was problematic.
The mount is designed to accept optics with the Trijicon RMR footprint, offering compatibility with a range of popular red dot sights. Beyond the included hardware for attaching an optic, there are no further customization options for the mount itself, as it is a fixed-height riser. Its strength lies in its focused design for a specific purpose and optic footprint, rather than extensive modularity.
Pros and Cons of Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount
Pros
- Excellent value for money, offering high-quality construction at a budget-friendly price.
- Precise 0.87-inch saddle height ensures accurate absolute co-witness with compatible red dots.
- Constructed from robust 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum with a durable matte black anodize finish.
- Significant lightening cuts contribute to an impressively low weight of only 1.5 oz.
- Features locking Torx screws and integral recoil stops for a secure zero hold.
Cons
- The included optic mounting screws had massive flat heads that interfered with sight picture and battery access on my RMR.
- Requires separate purchase of compatible optic mounting screws if the included ones are unsuitable.
- Not compatible with all red dot footprints; specifically designed for RMR.
Who Should Buy Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount?
This mount is an ideal choice for AR-15 and similar rifle owners seeking an affordable yet reliable solution for achieving an absolute co-witness with a Trijicon RMR or similarly footprinted red dot sight. It’s perfect for budget-conscious builders, competition shooters, or anyone who wants the advantage of quick target acquisition with iron sights as a backup without breaking the bank. Individuals who prioritize a lightweight build will also appreciate its minimal weight contribution.
However, those who demand a tool-free installation for their optic or are using an RMR variant that is particularly sensitive to mounting screw head profiles might want to consider alternatives or be prepared to source their own optic mounting screws. If you are looking for a mount that accommodates a wider range of red dot footprints, this specific model would not be the best fit. For optimal use, ensure you have a set of appropriately sized RMR optic mounting screws ready.
Conclusion on Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount
The Leapers UTG Super Slim Picatinny RMR Absolute Co-Witness Mount represents a remarkable achievement in providing high-quality firearm accessories at an accessible price. Its robust construction, precise machining, and effective design for achieving an absolute co-witness make it a compelling option for many shooters. The 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum and thoughtful lightening cuts contribute to a lightweight yet durable component that stands up well to the rigors of live fire.
While the mount itself is excellent, the caveat regarding the included optic mounting screws cannot be ignored; be prepared to potentially source your own for a truly seamless installation with certain optics. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall value proposition is undeniable. For anyone building or upgrading an AR-15 platform and requiring a solid, lightweight, and precise RMR absolute co-witness mount, I would 100% recommend this unit, provided they are aware of the potential need for alternative optic screws. It’s a testament to Leapers UTG’s improving quality and a smart buy for discerning users.