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Tech Support

Find quick answers to your technical questions below

ADM Mount Questions

How do I adjust my mount tension?

Please see the instructions below

ADM QD Mount Instructions

Non-QD Titanium GI Bolt System

What do I do if my adjustment nut is stuck in place and will not turn?

We recommend opening the throw lever completely and facing it downwards on a hard, non-marking surface. As you place downward pressure on the mount the adjustment nut should un-stick itself. Next, attempt to unscrew the adjustment nut by hand or with a slotted spanner screwdriver.

 

What is the proper tension setting for the mounts throw lever?

We recommend the tension on the throw lever to be set tight enough to secure the mount to the rail without any movement, but not so tight that you have to pry the throw lever open with a tool to remove the optic from the firearm. This is set by adjusting the tension in with the adjustment nut. You will want to feel resistance on the throw lever at about the 2/3rds closed position. Please ensure that the flats on the adjustment nut line up with the adjustment nut pocket in the mount itself. If the flats on the adjustment nut are not lined up correctly, the adjustment nut can become wedged in the pocket and seize up. To un-seize the adjustment nut, you will need to open the throw lever assembly completely and tap the throw lever with a rubber mallet. This will un-stick the adjustment nut from the pocket and allow you adjust the mount tension.

What is the fastner torque spec for my mount?

The proper torque setting for our Scope Mount ring screws is 20−25 In/Lbs OR what the optic manufacturer recomends in their owners manual. You will torque and tighten the bottom ring screws first, then torque and tighten the top screws. The rings act as a clamp around the scope tube. If this process is not followed, you will have issues with zeroing or zero shift with your optic. There should be a slight gap between the top of the ring halves. The ring screws are 9⁄64″ Allen. Rings do not need to be lapped, they are precision machined and self-centering. This torque rating is ONLY for our scope mount rings. Red dot mounts, such as the AD-T1−10 or AD-IM DO NOT have a torque rating. Simply snug the screws down hand tight. Use only the supplied Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate. DO NOT use Loctite on any ADM Mounts. Doing so will damage the threads and void the warranty.

Recon vs Delta Scope Mounts

The Recon Scope Mount features vertically split rings that are interchangeable for different size scope main tubes. If you switch to a different scope in the future, you will only have to replace the ring set. This makes the Recon mount a modular and cost effective mount. The Delta Scope Mount features horizontal split rings, with the bottom ring half as part of the scope base itself. If you do change the scope main tube size, you will need to purchase a new mount. The Delta Mount was designed with FN for the SCAR Program, so it is an overbuilt mount designed to withstand the unique, heavy recoil of the SCAR Platform.

ADM QD Lever or Bolt Design Differences
ADM Standard (STD) Lever

The Standard (STD) QD lever is the baseline lever in the ADM mount family. It provides a streamlined lever design that minimizes snag opportunities while allowing for immediate optic or accessory removal or attachment.

 


ADM Tactical (TAC) Lever

The Tactical (TAC) QD lever includes additional material at the top and bottom of the lever compared to the Standard QD lever. This enlarged thumbpad allows easier manipulation while wearing gloves. It also features more aggressive gripping texture and a safety wire hole to secure the lever shut if the mission dictates.

ADM Titanium (TL) Lever

The full titanium QD lever assembly provides greater strength and minimal weight for your ADM mount. The Titanium QD lever assembly provides a streamlined lever design that reduces the overall lever assembly weight by over 50% and improves the thread pull strength to over 1,800 lbs. This lever assembly is 100% corrosion resistant.

ADM GI Bolt (Non-QD)

The GI Bolt provides a more permanent mounting solution for your mount. The GI Bolt uses a 3/8" wrench found in most standard tool boxes and features holes to attach safety wire for extra security. This bolt will provide ample clamping force at 30-40 in/lbs but can be torqued up to but not exceeding 60 in/lbs.

Calculating BUIS and Scope Fitment/ Mount Height Specification Chart

To calculate if your BUIS will fit under your scope, you need the following information. The height of the BUIS when folded, the diameter of the eyepiece of your scope, and the centerline height of your scope mount. Please refer to our Scope Mount centerline height chart below.

First, take the eyepiece diameter and divide it by 2. Next, subtract this from your scope mounts centerline height. This will give you the gap under the scopes eyepiece, which will determine if your BUIS will fit under it. This can also be done to determine if scopes with a large ocular lens will clear the rail or barrel on your rifle. Take the diameter of the ocular lens and divide it by 2. Next, subtract this from your scope mounts centerline height. This will give you the gap under the scopes ocular lens, which will determine if it will clear your handguards or barrel.

The chart below shows the standard centerline heights of our complete line of Red Dot Mounts.

20/30 MOA Mount Common Questions

Our 20MOA, 30MOA and 40MOA mounts were designed for long range shooting with high power optics. We recommend 20 MOA for anything where you will be shooting 800-1000 yards on a consistent basis. This will add 20", 30" or 40" of elevation at 100 yards to your scopes adjustment so you will not have to dial your elevation as much for shooting out longer distances. We reccomend at least a 200 yard zero when using any MOA mounts. For easy identification, all of our MOA mounts are marked on the bottom and side of the mount indicating the amount of MOA that is built into the base. The base is also marked with an arrow on the side opposite of the throw levers. This arrow will point forward when mounted on the firearm, towards the muzzle.

MIL-STD Picatinny or Weaver Rail Fitment

American Defense Mounts will fit both Picatinny and Weaver rails. Our standard cross bolt width is .203″, made for milspec picatinny rails. We do offer a smaller bolt that is .187″ wide. Our mounts will fit some, but not all weaver rails. If the recoil lug width on the weaver rail is greater than .187″ our smaller .187″ bolt will work. If the width is smaller, the .187 bolt will not fit the weaver rail. We do have the ability to modify our bolt to fit your weaver rail, we just need to know the width it needs to be. If you would like to order your mount with the .187″ bolt, please contact [email protected]

Replacement Hardware and Springs for ADM QD Mounts

American Defense Mounts have two different types of springs, Generation 1 and Generation 2. The Gen 1 springs are the old style springs that are the same diameter throughout the spring. They are silver in color. The Gen 2 springs have one larger end, that is captured in the spring pocket on the mount to prevent it from falling out. They are gold in color. When you request replacement springs, please specify which generation springs you need. Generation 1 mounts are being phased out and all newly manufactured ADM mounts will be Generation 2, although there are still some Gen 1 mounts in circulation with our dealers and distributors. American Defense Mounts use standard size hardware that can be found at most hardware stores.

Replacement hardware and springs for ADM QD Mounts - Gen 1 and Gen 2
ADM Aluminum Anodizing Finish Variations

Color anodizing is tough to keep consistent, even in the same batch of parts. Due to this reason, Flat Dark Earth and OD Green Anodized parts may not match 100%. We do not offer any refunds or exchanges for the reason of parts not matching a previously purchased product. We will make every effort to ensure parts match as close as possible when purchased together.

Aimpoint T2/H2 Optic Mount notes and use of VibraTite VC-3 Threadmate

Our T1 Mount heights were designed based off of the Aimpoint Micro T1/T2 and H1/H2. This mount will fit all other red dots that share the same mounting footprint, however we have seen that the bases on some similar red dots are actually taller than the standard T1/T2, so the co-witness height may not be exactly as marked. If this is the case, you will need the next size lower mount to get the correct co-witness you need.

Through the direction of Aimpoint Optics- Sweden, it is recommended to refrain from using the supplied VC-3 Threadmate solution for the T2 and H2 optics. Aimpoint stated that due to the optics design featuring helicoils in the threads, thread locking compounds such as Loctite and Vibratite VC3 are not needed and will actually void the warranty on the optic.

If you do purchase any of our T1/T2 series mounts and are mounting a T2 or H2 onto it, do not use any of the supplied thread locking compound.

We are now including 2 sets of screws with all Aimpoint T1/T2 mounts. The short screws are for our one piece mounts. The Middle length screws are to be used with our 2 piece modular risers as well as mounting the Aimpoint T2 on one of our one piece bases. ( The T2 requires the use of longer screws for proper thread engagement. )The longest length are to be used with our two piece risers with the Aimpoint T2 optic. If you are using a Vortex or Holosun optic we recommend trying the short-size screws and seeing if they securely affix the optic to the mount if not then moving up or down to the other screws if necessary. There is no torque rating for these screws, we recommend tightening them hand tight. Customers have damaged their optics in the past trying to torque the screws down to a specific number.

Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate supplied with ADM mounts

Although red in color, the Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate thread locker is reusable and removable and equivalent to Blue Loctite. It is one of the most versatile threadlockers available on the market. An alternative to traditional liquid lockers which cure to form a hard bond, VC-3 is a blend of resins designed to remain flexible and absorb vibration. Shake well before each use. Apply VC-3 a length of 1 to 1 ½ times the fastener diameter, filling threads 30-50%. Although material will be dry to touch within minutes, allow VC-3 to dry for at least 30 minutes (the longer the better), depending on part size. Fasteners are then ready for assembly or to be stored for later use.

ADM Firearm Questions

ADM Firearm User Manuals And Warranty Information
ADM Endplate and Castle Nut Information

On our complete lower receiver assemblies and rifles, we are unable to stake the castle nut per mil-spec due to the endplate being made of aluminum. The aluminum will not displace material like a steel end plate does and chips off if attempted. After testing several different attachment procedures, we came up with our specific method of attachment. This method has been used on our rifles for several years without any issues. We also have hundreds of duty rifles in circulation with both Law Enforcement Agency’s and Military Personnel that have been put under intense usage in extreme conditions, experience zero failures with our method. To secure the Receiver Extension Assembly, we utilize VC3 Vibratite on both the Receiver Extension threads, and the Receiver Extension Castle Nut threads, and torque the castle nut down. VC3 Vibratite is designed to remain flexible, absorb vibration and the vibrational energy transferred between the threads of a mated fastener, preventing fastener loosening and loss of clamp load. With exceptional reliability, VC-3 holds parts in place even during extreme vibration and shock.

ADM Billet Upper/ Handguard Fitment

We have tested and have been shown by our customers that our Billet UIC Upper Receiver is compatible with the non-ADM handguards listed below. The UIC Upper may be compatible with other handguard systems as well, however we have not verified this.

Bravo Company KMR, MCMR, and QRF.

Daniel Defense RISII MK18 and M4A1.

Geissele SMR MK4, MK14, and MK16.

General ADM Firearms, Ammunition and Barrel Notes

5.56mm NATO vs .223 Wylde

Firearms chambered in 5.56mm NATO or .223 WYLDE can safely fire both .223 Remington and 5.56mm NATO Ammunition. For accuracy, we have had the best luck with Federal Gold Medal Match 69gr and 77gr as well as Hornady Black 75gr ammunition.

Bulk Ammunition and Steel Cased Ammunition Note

ADM only recommends high quality, brass cased, factory loaded ammunition to be used in our firearms. Our gasports are optimized for reliability and to reduce recoil and muzzle rise, however this may cause the rifle to not cycle cheap lower powered bulk brass cased or steel cased ammunition. This is similar to running premium fuel in a high end sports car. The sports car will not run to its full potential on cheaper, low end fuel.

300 Blackout Ammunition Notes

Our 300 Blackout Firearms are designed to run and cycle Supersonic 300 Blackout without any issues. Subsonic 300 Blackout May or May Not cycle completly WITHOUT a suppressor. You WILL need to run the firearm suppressed to cycle Subsonic ammunition reliably

Rocksett

We use Rocksett on all of or muzzle devices, please see the link below for removal information.

Rocksett Information Sheet

UIC-10A Lower Receiver Compatibility

The UIC-10A Lower has been tested and found to be compatible with the KAC SR25 Upper Receiver Assembly. It has been found to not be compatible with the LMT Large Frame Platform. We have not checked compatibility with any other platforms and we do not offer any technical support for home built rifles using our UIC-10A Lower Receiver.

CORE vs Hybrid Profile Barrel Contour

The CORE Barrel Profile is a continuous taper and is about 4 ounces lighter than the standard Hybrid Profile Barrels we offer. This barrel profile was designed to aid in ballancing the rifle spefically when using lights, lasers and suppressors by keeping most of the weight on the chamber end of the barrel, at the mid-point of the rifle.

 

ADM Barrel Finish Variations and Barrel Break-In

Our ADM Contour and Hybrid barrels, manufactured by Criterion Barrels Inc. incorporate a different production process than those used by most barrel manufacturers. The chambers and rifling of these barrels are each hand polished post-nitriding to increase the ease of barrel break-in and maintenance.

While the exterior of each barrel is bead blasted to allow for a low profile matte appearance, the breech face and internal surface texture will vary slightly from the exterior due to this polishing operation. These surfaces will typically feature a high gloss finish typical of a hand lapped match grade barrel while still incorporating the wear and corrosion resistance offered by the salt bath nitriding operation (which serves to harden the physical material properties of the steel).

What process can I use to break-in my barrel?

With the goal of gradually reducing copper fouling, we suggest beginning the break-in process with single shot groups. After each group the shooter should clean the barrel with a copper solvent. When fouling begins to diminish after each shot, group sizes can be subsequently increased to five rounds. When fouling is reduced after each five round group, the group size can be increased to ten rounds. If the barrel has no copper fouling after a ten round group, your rifle is ready for your next match. The removal of copper fouling is important, but the most important factor in barrel maintenance is the removal of all moisture. Trapped water will wreak havoc on barrel performance, so make sure to run a few patches through after each use to ensure no condensation remains on the rifling. However, lapped barrels such as Criterion Barrels used on our Mod 2 Rifles generally do not require a significant break-in process. The throat finish is generally not lapped, so this is the area that may require breaking in. Be sure to thoroughly clean new barrels prior to use to remove the preservative solvent that is applied to the barrels when we receive them.

ADM Aluminum Anodizing Finish Variations

Color anodizing is tough to keep consistent, even in the same batch of parts. Due to this reason, Flat Dark Earth and OD Green Anodized parts may not match 100%. We do not offer any refunds or exchanges for the reason of parts not matching a previously purchased product. We will make every effort to ensure parts match as close as possible when purchased together.

ADM Cerakote Finish Variations

Due to the processes of coating, our Cerakote colors may slightly differ in shades from batch to batch and parts may not match 100%. We will make every effort to make sure parts are the closest match possible when they are assembled. Our standard colors are Bullshark Grey, Midnight Bronze, Magpul Flat Dark Earth and Magpul OD Green. We can quote custom finishes such as distressed, camo and anything else you can think of. Please contact [email protected] for a quote.

 

Bullshark Grey

Midnight Bronze

Flat Dark Earth

OD Green

ADM Handguard Rail Dimensions

The Inside Diameter of our MLOK Rail systems is 1.3 inches wide and 1.6 inches tall. The OD is 1.6" at the widest point. The Inside Diameter of our Low Light Rail systems is 1.5 inches wide and 1.6 inches tall.

ADM Handguard Installtion Tips

ADM Recommends the Magpul Armorers Wrench for the installation of our handguards. You will use the castle nut end of the wrench for installing the ADM barrel nut. Please ensure you have full teeth engagement on the barrel nut to prevent damage. Reference the photo below.

Please see the below photo for the anti-rotation pin location for upper receivers that are not drilled out to accept the anti-rotation pin on our handguard system.

UIC vs ADM4 Lower Receiver

The UIC Lower Receiver features a reinforcing rib pattern on the magazine well for added strength and weight reduction while having an aesthetically pleasing design.

The ADM4 Lower Receiver features a slick sided magazine well, similar to the standard AR15 and is great for custom engraving or a more traditional AR15 style build.

 

UIC-10A Specific Information

The UIC-10A Features an adjustable gas block. Due to the various differences in ammunition and operating pressures, we suggest adjusting the gas block to your specific ammunition for maximum reliability.

The UIC-10A Extractor features two o-rings. We have found in testing that with some ammunition this is too much resistance for the extractor to overcome and catch the lip on the cartridge and close the action completely. We have now begun to remove this second o-ring to aid in overall reliability, especially in cold weather.

UIC MOD1 and MOD2 Specifications

The major differences between the MOD1 and MOD2 is the barrel, trigger, muzzle device and charging handle. The MOD1 is a budget friendly rifle built with premium parts. It features a standard production 5.56mm barrel, single stage trigger, A2 flash hider and Raptor LT charging handle. The MOD2 is a step up in performance featuring a Match Grade .223 Wylde barrel, two-stage Geissele trigger, Surefire Warcomp and Raptor charging handle. Both models are built upon our patented, fully ambidextrous billet upper and lower receiver set featuring a ridged, free floated MLOK handguard available in various lengths. The ADM Lower Receiver features a left side magazine release paddle, enlarged bolt catch and a right side bolt catch/ release lever. The bolt catch/ release lever aids in weapons manipulation by allowing the user to perform all functions of re-loading and clearing the rifle, without removing the firing hand from the grip, allowing reload times to be drastically reduced.

MOD1 SPECIFICATIONS:
  • Barrel: 13.9", 14.5", and 16" Government profile 1:7 twist, 5.56mm Chamber, 4150 CMV Barrel
  • Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider
  • Lower receiver: 7000 Series T6 Billet machined, fully ambidextrous
  • Upper receiver: 7000 Series T6 Billet machined
  • Bolt carrier group: Milspec Enhanced full-auto BCG, MPI tested with a Nitride QPQ finishd
  • Trigger: ALG Defense ACT
  • Safety: Radian Weapons Talon Ambidextrous Safety
  • Buffer: American Defense Mfg® HD buffer
  • Buffer Tube: American Defense Mfg® Enhanced 10 Position
  • Rail systems: Available in 13", 13.5", and 15" options in M-Lok.
  • Furniture: Magpul MOE Grip/ SL Stock (black)
  • Charging Handle: Radian Raptor LT
  • Gas System: Mil-Spec
  • End Plate: American Defense Mfg® QD anti-rotational
  • Color: Only available in Type III Teflon impregnated hardcoat Black Anodized.
  • Accessories: Pmag 30rd

 

MOD2 SPECIFICATIONS:
  • Barrel: Standard Rifle- 10.5", 12.5", 14.5”, 16” and 18" Criterion Hybrid Contour, 4150 CMV, button rifled, MPI tested, stress relieved, pressure tested, hand lapped, Nitride Finished, 1:8 twist, .223 Wylde Chamber
  • Barrel: CORE Patrol Rifle- 11.5", 13.9" Criterion CORE Contour, 4150 CMV, button rifled, MPI tested, stress relieved, pressure tested, hand lapped, Nitride Finished, 1:8 twist, .223 Wylde Chamber
  • Also available in 8.5", 10.5” or 16” 300 Blackout.
  • Muzzle Device: Surefire Warcomp
  • Lower receiver: 7000 Series T6 Billet machined, fully ambidextrous
  • Upper receiver: 7000 Series T6 Billet machined.
  • Bolt carrier group: Milspec Enhanced full-auto BCG, MPI tested with a Nitride QPQ finish
  • Trigger: Geissele G2S
  • Safety: Radian Talon Ambidextrous Safety
  • Buffer: American Defense Mfg® HD buffer
  • Buffer Tube: American Defense Mfg® Enhanced 10 Position
  • Rail systems: Available in 7", 9", 10.75”, 13", 13.5”, 15 and 17” options in M-LOK
  • Furniture: Magpul MOE Grip/ SL Stock (black)
  • Charging Handle: Radian Raptor
  • Gas System: Mil-Spec
  • End Plate: American Defense Mfg® QD anti-rotational
  • Color: Type III Teflon impregnated hardcoat anodized Black or Flat Dark Earth, Smoke Grey, Midnight Bronze, Bullshark Grey or OD Green Cerakote.
  • Accessories: Pmag 30rd