In the ever-evolving world of firearm accessories, ANR Design has carved a niche with its innovative Anvil Moler modular riser, designed to address a specific gap in the market for optics compatibility. Alex from ANR Design recently discussed the Moler, shedding light on its design, functionality, and the unique needs it fulfills within the shooting community.
The Genesis of Anvil Moler
The Anvil Moler was born out of necessity. When a military unit approached ANR Design for a solution to co-witness absolute co-witness optics with Unity’s Centerline riser for magnifiers, the company saw an opportunity. The Unity risers, while excellent for lower third optics like the Sig Romeo 8T, did not accommodate older style absolute co-witness optics such as the EOTech XPS. This led to the creation of the Moler, named after Thor’s hammer, continuing ANR’s tradition of naming products after mythical blunt objects.
Modularity at Its Core
The Moler’s standout feature is its modularity. With two screws on the top of its Picatinny rail, users can disassemble the riser to remove or insert a center support. This design allows the optic to be adjusted to either match the optical center for absolute co-witness setups or to be lowered for compatibility with lower third optics. This flexibility means shooters don’t need to invest in new optics just to use them with the Unity magnifier system.
Engineering Challenges and Costs
Alex highlighted the manufacturing challenges, explaining that achieving six planes of aluminum in perfect parallel with minimal cant is costly. This precision results in a higher rejection rate of parts, making the Moler more expensive than its counterparts. However, this cost is justified by its dual functionality and the precision required for high-stakes applications like military use.
Enhancements for Specific Needs
For those requiring even more customization, ANR offers Picatinny rail extensions for the Moler. This addition caters to users who prefer a ‘heads-up’ shooting stance, particularly beneficial in close-quarters combat (CQB) scenarios or when using night vision devices. This setup ensures that the optic does not interfere with night vision goggles and allows for a more natural head position, enhancing situational awareness.
Niche but Necessary
While the Moler and its extensions serve a very specific niche, particularly within the CQB community, Alex acknowledges its limitations in other shooting scenarios, like shooting from a prone position uphill. Here, the high optic mount could hinder traditional shooting techniques. Despite this, the product’s design caters to a growing demand for specialized equipment in tactical environments.
Conclusion
The Anvil Moler by ANR Design isn’t just another accessory; it’s a solution crafted for those who demand versatility without compromising on precision. By bridging the gap between different optic systems, ANR Design has not only met a market need but has also set a standard for how modular firearm accessories can evolve. For those in the market for a high-quality, adaptable optic riser, the Anvil Moler stands out as a testament to innovative design meeting practical application.
