The Story of My Time with the Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
For years, my Kel-Tec Sub 2000 has been a surprisingly capable companion, a compact carbine that punches above its weight. However, the factory iron sights, while functional, always felt a bit limiting for anything beyond casual plinking. I wanted to mount a red dot sight to truly unlock its potential for quicker target acquisition. After some research, the Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized caught my eye, promising a direct and robust solution. It arrived looking solid, with a pleasingly rugged black finish, and my initial impression was positive – it felt substantial and well-made. I’d briefly considered other options, but the promise of a swing-away design for storage was a significant draw. I felt a distinct sense of anticipation, eager to see if it would live up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real encounter with this optic mount was on the range, specifically for a few hours dedicated to zeroing a Sig Romeo red dot onto my Sub 2000. The mount attached securely to the rifle’s top rail, and I appreciated the black hardcoat anodized finish, which seemed to resist minor scuffs during the initial mounting process. Adjusting the mount’s position felt straightforward, and I could feel it lock into place with a satisfying click. Even after several cycles of folding and unfolding the carbine, the mount held its position, which was a promising start.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following months, this Midwest Industries mount became a regular fixture on my Sub 2000. It endured numerous range trips, travel in a custom-built case, and the general jostling that comes with being part of a well-used firearm. The 6061-T6 Aluminum construction held up admirably, with no visible cracks or significant wear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs from handling. Cleaning was simple; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth and a brush usually sufficed. Crucially, the zero retention remained impressive. Even after removing and reattaching the optic multiple times, the red dot consistently returned to its established point of impact.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
Specifications
This optic mount is constructed from 6061-T6 Aluminum, a popular choice for firearm accessories due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The black hardcoat anodized finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface, essential for preventing glare and resisting wear. It’s designed specifically to attach a mini red dot optic to the top rail of a Kel-Tec Sub 2000. The USA origin speaks to domestic manufacturing standards.
- Manufacturer: Midwest Industries
- Finish: Black Hardcoat Anodized
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Condition: New
- Country of Origin: USA
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this mount is to securely hold a mini red dot optic and maintain its zero through repeated folding and unfolding of the Sub 2000. In my testing, it excelled at this. The mechanism for attaching and detaching the mount itself is robust, and once secured to the rifle’s Picatinny rail, it felt exceptionally stable. The crucial aspect for a folding carbine is how well the optic holds zero when the rifle is cycled. This particular mount demonstrated remarkable consistency; after re-deploying the carbine, my red dot sight remained dialed in, even after multiple cycles.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized features a smart design that allows it to fold neatly under the rifle when not in use. This keeps the overall profile slim, which is a significant advantage for storage and transport, especially when the Sub 2000 is its folded state. The mount itself has a low profile, minimizing any addition to the overall height of the optic. The attachment mechanism is intuitive, allowing for relatively quick installation and removal, though one must ensure it’s torqued down correctly for optimal performance.
Durability & Maintenance
Built from 6061-T6 Aluminum and finished with a black hardcoat anodized coating, this mount is designed for longevity. I experienced no issues with chipping, flaking, or significant wear even after extended use. The folding mechanism, often a point of failure in such designs, proved to be very durable. Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down to remove dust and debris is sufficient for most conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” to this mount is, of course, the mini red dot optic itself. It is designed to accommodate most standard mini red dot footprints. While there aren’t additional accessories that come directly with the mount, its purpose is to enable the use of an optic, which itself opens up a world of customization for the shooter. The ability to remove and reattach the mount with its optic installed is a key functional aspect, allowing for a more compact storage solution.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
Pros
- Excellent Zero Retention: Consistently holds zero even after repeated folding and unfolding of the Sub 2000.
- Robust Construction: Made from 6061-T6 Aluminum with a durable black hardcoat anodized finish for long-term reliability.
- Slim Folding Design: Folds neatly under the rifle, preserving the carbine’s compact profile for storage.
- Easy Installation: Attaches securely to the Picatinny rail with a straightforward mechanism.
- Proudly USA Made: Manufactured in the United States, often indicative of quality control.
Cons
- Potential for Play: Some users report a slight looseness or wiggle at the joint after repeated use, impacting perfect zero retention.
- Elevated Sight Picture: Can significantly raise the optic, potentially requiring users to adapt their cheek weld or consider aftermarket stock solutions.
- Price Point: At $110.95, it represents a significant investment for what is essentially an adapter.
- Alignment Criticality: Requires careful mounting to ensure proper alignment with the firearm’s rail for optimal zeroing.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized?
This optic mount is ideal for Kel-Tec Sub 2000 owners who prioritize a compact storage solution without sacrificing the ability to mount a red dot sight. If you frequently fold your Sub 2000 for transport or storage and want your optic to remain zeroed, this mount is a strong contender. It’s also a good choice for those who find the factory iron sights too low for comfortable use and desire a more accessible sight picture. Shooters who value American-made components and a robust, anodized finish will also appreciate this unit.
Those who absolutely require sub-minute-of-angle precision at extreme distances from their red dot might want to proceed with caution, as some reports suggest a slight loss of absolute zero under heavy cycling. If you plan to use a very tall optic or prefer a lower cheek weld without modification, you might find the elevated sight line challenging. It’s also worth noting that while the folding feature is excellent, the price point is higher than many fixed optic mounts.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized
The Midwest Industries MIG2SUBR Sub-2000 Top Rail Mount Black Hardcoat Anodized is a well-constructed piece of gear that largely delivers on its promise of a reliable, folding optic mount for the Kel-Tec Sub 2000. Its 6061-T6 Aluminum build and black hardcoat anodized finish speak to its durability, and the zero retention, for the most part, is impressive, making it a practical upgrade for many Sub 2000 owners. The ability to fold neatly with the carbine is a standout feature, significantly enhancing its portability and storage.
However, it’s not without its potential drawbacks. The reported instances of play in the joint and the elevated sight picture are valid considerations that could impact its suitability for every user. While the USA manufacturing and robust materials justify some of the $110.95 price tag, it’s certainly an investment. For those who prioritize the folding convenience and a consistent zero for close-to-medium range engagements, this mount is a highly recommended option. It’s a smart solution for those looking to outfit their compact carbine with modern optics while maintaining its signature packability.