UltiMAK, Inc.
UltiMAK was founded in the late 1990s by Lyle Keeney, a hobbyist gunsmith who initially worked in musical instrument repair and restoration. Keeney sought effective optic mounting solutions for his rifles, and his extensive mechanical problem-solving experience led to the creation of the world's first practical, low, stable forward optic mount for the AK-type rifle. This innovation laid the foundation for UltiMAK, Inc.
The UltiMAK AK optic mount, available in various versions, has become the gold standard for AK mounts. It has gained widespread popularity among American sportsmen and gun enthusiasts and has been adopted by the U.S. Military as the preferred solution for mounting optics on AK rifles. This mount addresses multiple issues simultaneously: it reduces system weight and bulk, positions the optic correctly for a proper rifle hold, allows for co-witnessing with iron sights, remains unobtrusive, does not need to be removed for field stripping, and reliably holds optical zero even in harsh conditions.
Under Keeney's direction, UltiMAK expanded its product line to include the ACR2 series of railed, modular forends for AK rifles. The ACR2 tri-rail underwent rigorous drop testing during its design and prototyping phases to ensure zero retention when aiming devices like laser pointers or backup sights are attached. Despite some concerns about weight, the U.S. Military selected UltiMAK's ACR2-SC (Stamped, Compact), ACR2-SS (Stamped, Standard), and ACR2-SL (Stamped, Long) for securely mounting laser designators and other devices on AK rifles, confident in the forend rail system's reliability.
Furthermore, UltiMAK products are designed for user installation, typically without requiring firearm modifications. Any mounts that do necessitate alterations are clearly indicated in their product descriptions.
Since the early 2000s, UltiMAK has developed several other forward optic mounts for rifles such as the M1 Garand, M-14, M1A, Ruger Mini-14, and the popular M1 Carbine.
Advantages of UltiMAK Products
- High Quality and Durability: Made from top-notch materials, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Ease of Installation: Most mounts can be installed by the user without modifications.
- User-Friendly Design: Optics are positioned optimally without obstructing iron sights.
- Reliable Zero Retention: Maintains optical zero even in challenging conditions.
UltiMAK's manufacturing facility is located in Moscow, Idaho, USA, where they oversee all production stages to ensure the highest quality.