Aluminum vs. Steel Red Dot Mounts: Which Material Is The Right One For Your Red Dot?
Introduction
When it comes to choosing a red dot mount for your firearm, one of the critical decisions is selecting the material. Aluminum and steel are two of the most common materials used for red dot mounts, and each has its own set of advantages and considerations. In this guide, we’ll compare aluminum vs. steel red dot mounts, helping you make an informed decision about which material best suits your firearm setup and shooting preferences. All OuterImpact mounts are precision machined from aircraft grade 7075 aluminum and backed by a Lifetime Warranty.
Why Material Matters
Durability and Weight
The choice of material significantly impacts the durability and weight of your red dot mount. Understanding the pros and cons of aluminum and steel mounts is essential for optimizing your firearm setup.
Aluminum Red Dot Mounts
Aluminum is a popular choice for red dot mounts due to its favorable characteristics:
1. Lightweight
| Characteristic | Details |
| Weight | Aluminum mounts are notably lighter than steel counterparts. This weight reduction can be advantageous, especially for shooters concerned about the overall weight of their firearm setup. |
2. Corrosion Resistance
| Characteristic | Details |
| Corrosion Resistance | Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant. Most aluminum mounts are anodized to further enhance their resistance to rust and wear. This makes them suitable for outdoor and all-weather use. |
3. Ease of Machining
| Characteristic | Details |
| Machinability | Aluminum is easier to machine and manufacture, allowing for intricate designs and customization options. This versatility is appreciated by shooters seeking unique setups. |
Steel Red Dot Mounts
Steel mounts have their own set of advantages and considerations:
1. Durability
| Characteristic | Details |
| Durability | Steel mounts are renowned for their durability and ability to withstand heavy use and recoil. They are less likely to experience wear and tear over time, making them a reliable choice for long-term use. |
2. Stability
| Characteristic | Details |
| Stability | Steel’s inherent weight and rigidity provide enhanced stability for your red dot sight. This can be particularly advantageous for precision shooting or heavy-recoiling firearms. |
3. Heat Resistance
| Characteristic | Details |
| Heat Resistance | Steel’s heat resistance properties make it suitable for high-temperature environments, such as extended shooting sessions. This ensures that the mount remains stable and secure even during rapid fire. |
Choosing the Right Material
To determine whether aluminum or steel is the right choice for your red dot mount, consider the following factors:
- Your shooting style and firearm type: Are you a competitive shooter, hunter, or tactical enthusiast?
- Weight considerations: Do you prioritize a lightweight setup?
- Intended use: Will your firearm be subjected to extreme conditions or heavy recoil?
- Aesthetic preferences: Do you have a specific design or customization in mind for your mount?
Conclusion
Choosing between aluminum and steel red dot mounts is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your firearm setup. By understanding the advantages and considerations of each material, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your shooting needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize lightweight versatility or robust durability, selecting the right material ensures that your red dot mount complements your firearm and enhances your shooting experience. OuterImpact utilizes 7075 billet aluminum to preserve the light weight requirement. We use steel screws, dowel pins and dovetails to secure the mount to the slide of the pistol. Making an entirely stable platform for your optic.
In our next articles within this series, we’ll explore other aspects of red dot mount materials and provide practical insights to help you make the most of your firearm setup. You can read more of our red dot series here.
This comprehensive comparison of aluminum vs. steel red dot mounts equips you with the knowledge to choose the right material for your firearm setup. Whether you prioritize lightweight versatility or robust durability, understanding these materials’ characteristics ensures that your red dot mount enhances your shooting experience.