Understanding the Enduring Appeal of the A2 Carry Handle
Do you find yourself staring longingly at your AR-15, appreciating its classic lines, but longing for enhanced performance? Do you yearn to modernize your rifle without completely abandoning its heritage? The iconic A2 carry handle, a symbol of the AR-15’s rich history, offers a unique platform for mounting optics. This article delves into the world of the A2 carry handle optic mount, providing a comprehensive guide for rifle enthusiasts seeking to bridge the gap between tradition and modern advancements. We’ll explore the different types of mounts, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the right one for your specific needs, all while emphasizing the enduring appeal of the A2 carry handle.
Before we explore mounting options, let’s appreciate the foundation: the A2 carry handle. This integral part of the original AR-15 design provides a built-in sighting system, characterized by its robust construction and familiar form. The carry handle, with its integrated aperture sight and adjustable front sight, offers a readily accessible sighting solution, particularly for those new to AR-15 platforms. It represents a core aesthetic of the AR-15, instantly recognizable and steeped in military history.
The advantages of the A2 carry handle extend beyond its aesthetic appeal. Its inherent durability means it can withstand considerable handling and the rigors of use in various environments. Its simplicity, free from the complexities of modern rail systems, also makes it a reliable option, less prone to mechanical failure. Many shooters find the height of the irons sights comfortable and intuitive to use. Moreover, the A2 carry handle maintains the classic, streamlined profile of the rifle, preserving its heritage while offering a functional aiming system.
However, the A2 carry handle also presents certain challenges. One key disadvantage is its fixed height. This height above bore (the distance between the sight line and the center of the bore) can sometimes limit the range of optics that can be effectively mounted. This requires careful consideration when selecting an optic to ensure proper eye relief and a comfortable shooting experience. Another issue is its potential to obstruct the use of other accessories that mount directly to the top of the receiver, although this is less of a problem when using the carry handle for an optic.
So, why opt for the A2 carry handle and a corresponding A2 carry handle optic mount over the modern flat-top rail system? Several factors come into play. Many shooters choose the A2 carry handle for its aesthetic qualities. The classic look simply resonates with some gun owners, evoking a sense of nostalgia and historical accuracy. Others are drawn to the simplicity and robust nature of the original design. Beyond aesthetics, it’s a matter of personal preference. Many individuals already own rifles with carry handles and see no reason to upgrade to a flat-top rail. Furthermore, the cost of switching from a carry handle setup to a railed one can be significant, representing an additional expense some are unwilling to make.
Exploring the Variety of A2 Carry Handle Optic Mounts
The market offers several approaches for mounting an optic on the A2 carry handle, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these options is crucial for selecting the right A2 carry handle optic mount for your needs.
Let’s start with the category of mounts that attach directly to the carry handle. These mounts, often straightforward in design, typically feature a base that clamps directly onto the carry handle. They generally provide a simple, potentially lightweight solution. The primary benefit of a direct mount lies in its ease of use. Installation is usually straightforward, and the mount itself often minimizes weight, a key factor for those seeking a balanced rifle.
However, direct mounts also have limitations. They often restrict the types of optics that can be mounted. Red dot sights are a common choice for these mounts. Furthermore, they can sometimes compromise the overall stability of the optic, particularly with heavier or more complex optics. The optic’s height above bore can also be a factor with this type of mount, requiring careful selection of the optic to ensure comfortable aiming. Examples include mounts that attach to the carry handle with a set of screws or a clamping mechanism.
Now, let’s explore Picatinny rail mounts designed for the A2 carry handle. These offer a versatile solution, as they create a standardized Picatinny rail on top of the carry handle. This allows you to mount almost any optic that fits a Picatinny rail, greatly expanding your options. This is the most popular type of A2 carry handle optic mount. The main advantage of these mounts is versatility. You can mount a wide range of optics, from red dots and reflex sights to scopes. These mounts typically offer a more robust platform, providing better stability and durability.
The main drawback of Picatinny rail mounts is their potential bulkiness. The addition of a rail can increase the overall weight and profile of the rifle. In some cases, you might also need to use a riser to achieve a comfortable cheek weld and proper sight picture, further increasing the overall height.
Finally, we have the category of cantilever mounts. These designs extend the optic mounting platform forward or backward, aiming to provide improved eye relief. Cantilever mounts can be an excellent option for scopes or optics that require a specific eye relief distance for optimal performance. With cantilevered rail systems, you may be able to move the optic toward the front of the rifle, allowing for a more comfortable position for the eye and enhanced target acquisition.
Cantilever mounts present some unique challenges. They are often more complex in their design and require a secure mounting method. They also have the potential to compromise the overall stability of the optic if not properly manufactured or installed.
Choosing the Right A2 Carry Handle Optic Mount: A Decision Guide
Choosing the ideal A2 carry handle optic mount involves carefully considering several factors, as the best choice depends on individual requirements.
The type of optic you intend to use is the primary consideration. Are you planning on using a red dot sight for rapid target acquisition, a magnified scope for longer-range shooting, or a holographic sight? Your optic choice will heavily influence the type of mount you need. Some direct mounts may be suitable for red dots, while a Picatinny rail mount provides the most versatility.
Your budget is another essential factor. Mount prices can vary considerably. Determine how much you are willing to spend on the mount, as this will narrow your options considerably. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of the optic and any additional accessories, such as risers.
Consider your intended use. Will you be using your rifle for hunting, target shooting, home defense, or general plinking? Each of these applications has different requirements. For example, a hunter may prefer a mount that is rugged and reliable, while a home defender may prioritize ease of use and rapid target acquisition.
Shooting style is important. Consider where your eye falls when the rifle is shouldered. Take into account eye relief, distance between the eye and the optic. If you plan to utilize a scope, eye relief becomes very important. Be sure that the optic and mounting system you select allow for comfortable shooting.
Weight and overall profile of the rifle should be another factor. Some shooters prefer to keep the rifle lightweight, while others are less concerned with the added weight. If weight is a key factor, consider a direct mount or a Picatinny rail mount made from lightweight materials.
Based on these factors, here are some general recommendations: For a red dot sight, a quality direct mount or a Picatinny rail mount is generally a good choice. For a budget-conscious setup, seek out options with cost-effective Picatinny mounts. To maximize eye relief, a cantilever mount is a solid choice.
Installation, Zeroing, and Maintenance
Once you’ve selected your A2 carry handle optic mount, proper installation and zeroing are essential. Installation typically involves attaching the mount to the carry handle using screws or a clamping mechanism. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper alignment and secure mounting.
Then you need to zero the optic. This is the process of adjusting the optic’s point of aim to match the point of impact of your bullets. A common procedure includes: securing your firearm, ensuring you are safely aiming downrange, and then using a target to adjust the windage and elevation.
Regular maintenance is also important. Clean the mount regularly, especially after shooting, to remove dirt and debris. Check the screws periodically to ensure they are tight. If you notice any issues, such as the mount loosening or the optic shifting, take the time to address the issue, often by tightening screws or reapplying thread locker.
Conclusion: Embracing the Blend of Tradition and Modernity
In summary, mounting an optic on the A2 carry handle allows you to preserve the iconic appearance of your AR-15 while enhancing its functionality and modernizing its capabilities. The world of the A2 carry handle optic mount offers a range of options, each with unique benefits. Understanding the different types of mounts, considering your individual needs, and following proper installation and maintenance procedures will allow you to create a reliable and effective optic system for your rifle.
By choosing the right A2 carry handle optic mount, you can bridge the gap between the classic design of the AR-15 and the advancements of modern optics. Embrace the blend of tradition and functionality, and unlock the full potential of your rifle.
We encourage you to share your experiences and ask questions about A2 carry handle optic mounts. What mounting system do you prefer? What are your favorite optic and mount combinations? We hope this guide provides you with a useful starting point for the journey!
