I’ve tried several scope configurations since I started modifying my A5 before finding what I believe to be the ultimate scope mount for the A5. The ultimate scope mount is optimally placed for quickly aiming the A5 whether my stock is engaged or not. It takes up a minimal amount of space and doesn’t create a blind spot any larger than the hopper. It doesn’t prevent you from using the stock hopper of from adding/removing the hopper. The sight assembly can be easily removed with one turn of the rear clamp knob but securely holds the scope in place with no need to zero the sight every time you take apart your gun. It does weigh more than an offset rail but the added militaristic look is totally worth it.

For those who may be trying to decide on a scope configuration for their A5 here are some common problems to consider:

* Can't use the scope while wearing a mask.
* Can't use the scope when using a stock.
* Can't see through the scope without craning your neck.
* Can't mount the scope without modifying or replacing the hopper.
* The hopper partially blocks the scope's line of sight.
* The hopper is difficult to remove without disassembling the sight configuration.
* The scope configuration adds too much weight or height to the marker.
* The scope configuration blocks the normal lign of sight and causes blind spots.
* The scope configuration works but takes away from the overall look.

As you may know, placing a scope directly on the A5 sight rail can be rather problematic. The stock sight rail places the scope too low and the rear sight gets in the way.

You can use a riser mount to raise the sight an inch or more but the hopper blocks a portion of the scope’s line of sight or may force you to modify or replace the hopper.

If you add an unmodified carry handle you have to use a riser mount and a carry handle sight rail to attach the sight to the handle. This configuration forces you to use a modified loading system like a quick cap or place your carry handle to the rear of the riser mount. If you mount the scope on top of the carry handle the hopper may still partially block the scope and the combined setup adds considerable height to the marker. Even if you use a side mount this configuration adds a considerable amount of weight to the gun.

There are a variety of rail systems available that offset the sight mount to clear the hopper but in my opinion they detract from the militaristic look of the A5

Many people use the JSC 45 degree offset mount but even though you clear the hopper the scope may not be high enough on the marker for proper usage. Also, the 45 degree rail is a 3/8 dovetail mount even though most scopes are made for mounting on weaver rails.

I'm sure I missed a few options here but the point is that the configuration shown below is the best solution to mounting a scope on the A5 that I've seen. One alternative would be using a tri-rail riser but they run in the $100+ range. My second choice would be the JCS 45 degree mount with a short riser mount under the scope for added height.

Preparation

Before we get started I think it's worth mentioning that the total sticker price will vary depending on where you purchase the individual items. Just keep in mind that you could easily spend $30-$80 on failed attempts at mounting your scope with one of the other options. I personally think that having a solid scope configuration and the added shock value is worth the additional cost.

Shopping list:

AR-15 Carry Handle Assembly (with or without sight assembly) - $30-$55

AR-15 Carry Handle Accessory Side Mount - $19

30mm Red Dot Scopew/ Weaver-style scope rings. $30-$80

You may be able to save a lot of money if you can find a carry handle without the rear sight assembly. This is preferred since we're going to remove that portion of the carry handle. If you’re only able to find the complete assembly you can carefully remove the rear sight and sell it on eBay to cover some of your costs. Just be careful how you describe the sight since assault rife parts are no longer allowed on eBay auctions.

The accessory side mount is by far the most challenging item to find. I was only able to find one online vendor that currently carries the side mount. I haven't seen any similar or substitute mounts on the market so you may want to secure this item first. As for the scope, I recommend a small frame 30mm red dot similar the one use in the example. Larger scopes will only create a better target for the enemy. The only tools you’ll need for this mod are a dremel with a standard set of bits and any sight adjustment tools that came with your scope

Modification & Assembly

I recommend putting the carry handle, mount, and scope together to make sure everything fits. The mod requires some metal cutting and sanding so you may want to make sure you’re in an area where metal shaving will not cause a safety hazard. I placed several newspapers under my cutting area for easy cleanup. I also used protective glasses and rubber dish gloves to protect myself from the shavings. Try to avoid breezy areas where the metal shavings might get scattered over a larger area. At the very least you should where eye protection because a broken cutting wheel can become a dangerous projectile.

The first step is to simply cut the rear sight cage off of the carry handle, including the portion of clamp rail that extends into this area. I used a standard cutting wheel to slowly make my way around the portion being removed. I found it easiest to remove the sight cage in two parts, first cutting off the cage and then the remaining metal lip. Try not to over heat the metal as you work and enjoy the pretty sparks when you cut the stronger metal clamp rail. Once the sight cage is removed sand down the exposed area with a sanding wheel and touch up the exposed areas with paint.

Now that you’ve resized your carry handle you may notice that it won't attach to the sight rail on top of your A5. This is because the bolts used to clamp carry handle require slots like you see on a weaver rail. You can either cut slots into your A5 or sand down the bolts. I prefer to avoid major changes to my A5 so I went to work on the carry handle instead. All you need to do is turn the carry handle over and sand flat the exposed portion of the rear bolt using your dremel and a sanding disk. The front bolt will extend past the A5 sight rail so you only need to modify the rear side.

Once the rear clamp bolt is sanded down your ready to put it all together. I've tried to capture how well this mod works in the pictures below. The sight position is comfortable and easy to use when my stock is folded in as well as extended. During several previous scope configuration attempts I had to strain to use the scope but now I use the scope without even thinking about it! I've tried this with the JSC MP5 folding stock and a CAR stock and they both work great. I also highly recommend a front see-through scope cover because you'll be surprised at how often you'll get paint on your lens. If you get a scope cover that opens on a hinge you may want to consider gluing the lid closed because a direct shot will take the lid clean off.

Once the rear clamp bolt is sanded down your almost ready to put it all together. One very important final step is to remove or replace the forward rail clamp. I initially failed to notice that the forward clamp prevents you from pulling back the cocking handle. You can completely remove the clamp or cut the thumbscrew portion off and use a matching nut in its place.

Finally, sand down any rough or sharp edges and touch up any exposed metal with flat black paint. Load the carry handle with your rail and scope and your good to go!

Check out my instructions for modifying a carbine-style hand guard to complete the milsim look for your A5!