Choosing the right mounting location for your red dot sight on your AR-15 is crucial for optimal performance and accuracy. This decision impacts your shooting style, comfort, and overall effectiveness. This guide breaks down the key considerations and helps you determine the best spot for your red dot.
Understanding AR-15 Mounting Options
The AR-15 platform offers several mounting options, each with its pros and cons:
1. Upper Receiver (Picatinny Rail):
This is the most common mounting location, offering several advantages:
- Accessibility: Easy to reach and adjust the red dot.
- Versatility: Allows for co-witnessing with iron sights (lower 1/3 co-witness is popular).
- Strength: Provides a solid, stable mounting platform.
Sub-options within the upper receiver:
- Absolute Co-witness: The red dot sits directly above the iron sights, offering a clear view of both.
- Lower 1/3 Co-witness: The red dot sits slightly lower, allowing you to see the iron sights through the red dot window as a backup. Generally preferred for its better sight picture and less obstruction.
- No Co-witness: The red dot is mounted higher, providing an unobstructed view of the red dot, but eliminating the iron sights as a backup.
2. Handguard (Picatinny Rail):
Mounting on the handguard offers:
- Lower Profile: Keeps the red dot closer to the barrel, reducing the sight radius.
- Improved Ergonomics: Can be more comfortable for some shooters, depending on handguard length and grip.
- Potential for Obstruction: The handguard can sometimes interfere with your shooting grip or the use of certain accessories.
3. Forward Assist (Rare):
While possible, mounting a red dot on the forward assist is generally not recommended due to:
- Limited Space: The area is small and may not accommodate larger red dots securely.
- Potential for Interference: It can interfere with your shooting grip and manipulation of the forward assist itself.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Mounting Location
Beyond the specific mounting points, several factors dictate the optimal location for your AR-15:
- Shooting Style: Do you primarily shoot from the prone position, standing, or a combination? This impacts the ideal eye relief and sight picture.
- Red Dot Size and Weight: Larger, heavier red dots might be better suited for the upper receiver for stability. Lighter red dots on a handguard can reduce weight forward.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, comfort and familiarity are key. Experiment to find what feels best and allows for the most consistent accuracy.
- Intended Use: If you plan on using your AR-15 for home defense, quick target acquisition might favor an upper receiver mount. For long-range shooting, a more stable platform might be preferred, but this is generally better served by scopes.
Conclusion: Finding the Sweet Spot
There's no single "best" location for mounting a red dot on an AR-15. The optimal position depends on individual needs, preferences, and shooting style. Consider the factors outlined above, and don't hesitate to experiment to discover the setup that best suits your shooting needs and enhances your performance. Experimenting with different mounts and positions on a range is the best way to find what's right for you. Remember to always prioritize safety and proper firearm handling.
