In this guide, we will explain the footprint and mounting of the Vortex AMG UH-1 Optic so you can be sure it is compatible with your firearm. Firearm optics are not made to a particular industry standard, so it is important to know which sight is compatible with the firearm you want to use it with.
We will cover what to look for on your firearm and the specifics for mounting the Vortex AMG UH-1 Optic.
Firearm Requirements for Mounting the Vortex AMG UH-1
The Vortex AMG UH-1 Optic was designed to be used on carbines, pistol caliber carbines (PCCs), shotguns, and AR platform pistols. This holographic sight is too large for handguns like the Glock 17, Sig P320, or 1911s.
First, your firearm must have a standard Picatinny rail mounting system. Military spec AR platform uppers have a standard Picatinny rail machined into them. Many tactical type shotguns also have a standard Picatinny rail.
The picture below shows the standard Picatinny rails on an AR rifle and a shotgun.
Mounting The Vortex AMG UH-1 Optic
The Vortex AMG UH-1 has a Quick Disconnect (QD) Picatinny rail mount. This is one of the most common mounting systems for full size optic sights. It has a center lug with a stationary rail on one side and a clamp on the other.
In the picture below, you can see the bottom of the optic beside a standard picatinny rail.
Note that the clamp on this optic is a QD clamp and does not require a tool to mount or remove it from a firearm. However, the first time that this optic is mounted, the clamp should be adjusted to make sure it is secure.
The clamp lever has a locking feature to prevent it from coming loose unintentionally. To open the lever, press the locking tab as you pull out the lever.
First, mount the optic to the rail on your firearm and close the clamp. If the clamp lever is hard to close, loosen the adjustment screw a few clicks. If the clamp lever is easy to close, tighten the screw a few clicks. Repeat the process until you can feel resistance when closing the clamp lever and it closes all the way.
The position on the rail that you mount the optic on your firearm is important. On AR platforms, we recommend mounting it to the rail on the receiver, and not on the handguard. The exact position largely depends on the shooter and the type of firearm. If you are going to use the Vortex Micro 3X Magnifier, spacing behind the UH-1 needs to be evaluated.
Mounting the Vortex Micro 3X Magnifier
The Vortex Micro 3X Magnifier is used in conjunction with the UH-1 for longer range shots. It includes a flip style mounting base that attaches to a picatinny rail exactly like the UH-1. The locking lever and adjustment screw is the same. Use the same process above to mount the magnifier between the stock of your firearm and the UH-1.
Will the Vortex AMG UH-1 Holographic Sight Fit your Firearm?
The Vortex AMG UH-1 Holographic sight will fit any firearm that has a standard Picatinny rail mounting system. All military spec AR platform rifles, carbines, and pistols and most tactical style shotguns have a Picatinny rail. This sight will not fit on pistols like Glocks and 1911s.