{TOP 4} Best Scope Mounts Reviews (2023 Updated)

After purchasing a scope for your rifle, the next thing you want to do is ensure you mount the scope properly. Without a perfectly fitting scope mount, it would be impossible to use the scope on your rifle since you cannot hold the scope with your hands on top of the rifle while shooting. 

Finding the best scope mounts in the market might be a bit challenging, especially if you are new to the shooting accessories world. In this article, you’ll learn about the different types of scope mounts, the factors to consider when choosing a scope mount, and the scope mounting options. After that, we’ll take you through a review of some best scope mounts. 

Here are our top picks:

Asides from these listed scope mounts, there are also other excellent mounts like the Warne Scope Mount, Primary Arms Deluxe Scope Mount, and Vortex Optics Cantilever Mounts.  You can also use the UTG Offset Air rifle Mount if you’re using an air rifle.

You can also check one of the best scope rings in the market, like the Seekins Precision scope ring.

Let us start with the scope mount types.

Different Scope Mount Types

Are you looking for a good scope mount but are not sure what type to acquire or how to put it together? This section will help you understand some of the major types of scope mounts and when to use them. 

Do you need help on how to mount a rifle scope? 

Weaver Mount 

A Weaver mount is a cross-slot scope mount with defined specifications for the width of the rail as well as the cross-cut grooves/slots in the base.

The rings have side-to-side grooves/slots where they can be clamped onto the rail’s sides. The mounting rings are clamped onto the rail with a bolt at the bottom side; this bolt rests in the groove/slots and is thus securely restrained from moving backward or forward.

A Weaver mount could have a base that is one piece or two pieces, with slots cut uniformly down the length of the rail or only one or two slots at the back or front for ring installation.

Weaver mounts offer a reliable and repetitive mounting system. This rail mount system allows a shooter to position a scope easily and hold it firmly. You can also remove and replace the scope easily if necessary.

When Should You Use A Weaver Mount?

If you desire a cross-slot system, then a Weaver mount generally has a lower weight and is less costly than the Picatinny mount.

Picatinny Mount

A Picatinny mount, like the Weaver mount (described above), is a cross-slot mount with particular dimensions in the width of its rails and the cross-cut grooves/slots at the base. 

For military applications, the Picatinny mount is a standard mount type. For instance, we have the Picatinny rail on a Flat-top AR 15 rifle. Picatinny mounts are seen on long range shooting precision rifles, military-style weapons, and any application where consistent durability is necessary.

However, as previously stated, be cautious with this mount. The fact that Picatinny mounts are the strongest mounts does not imply that every single Picatinny mount is strong. So if a mount has a Picatinny dimension, it does not guarantee the quality of that particular product.

A less expensive mount might work for you depending on the application; nevertheless, you should not use such a mount if robustness and precision are important.

Picatinny accessories usually fit on a Weaver rail, although this does not imply that you should use it. Just because a mount matches an accessory does not mean it will fit nicely and be reliable.

When Should You Use A Picatinny Mount?

You can use the Picatinny mount when installing an optic on a target shooting or tactical rifle like the AR 15.

Integral Mount

One of the most recent mount types is the integral mount, which eliminates the use of a base. Instead of making a specific mounting interface to fit a rail and then designing the rail to complement the rifle, integrated rings are built to connect directly to the weapon.

This type of mount is more difficult to build since the rings must not only have a specific height and diameter but must also have the proper hole spacing and form to be mounted on a specific rifle make and model.

When using the integral mounting system, you must purchase the right mounting rings for your optic and rifle. Unlike other mounting platforms where your rings need to fit your optic, and the mounting base needs to fit your rifle (since the base and rings are the same interfaces).

Since they are lightweight, stronger, and simpler, integral rings are suitable for hunting rifles. Adding too much weight to a hunting rifle is not a good idea because it will increase complications.

When Should You Use An Integral Mount?

Integral scope rings are strongly recommended when attaching a sight to a hunting rifle. For any hunter, this is the ideal rifle scope mount.

Dovetail Mount 

A dovetail mount is a basic system identical to the cross-slots mounts described above, except that it does not have cross-slots. To be firmly held in place, the mounting rings simply squeeze along the two sides of the Dovetail rail.

Some rifles come with a dovetail rail as the factory mount. The Tikka bolt action rifle, for example, may take any of the interfaces described above, plus it also features a dovetail rail machined to the receiver, allowing dovetail rings to be utilized without needing a base.

The dovetail mount system is also common in a rimfire rifle. The dovetail interface has the advantage of allowing the rings to be installed wherever you want on the rail. The 3/8′′ and 11mm are two of the most popular dovetail rail sizes. Other, less popular, but commercially available dovetail sizes are between 12 and 19mm.

When Should You Use A Dovetail Mount? 

If you want simplicity or don’t require a lot of strength, you can use a dovetail interface for your rimfire rifle or any other rifle with in-built dovetail rail. 

Standard Mount 

The “Standard mount or STD interface” can be somewhat confusing (another confusing interface is the “Quick Release or QR ” below) since the name is used by Leupold to indicate a mounting interface, and it also has a general meaning.

In this situation, Leupold’s “Standard” interface is far from the standard mount (normal/common). This mounting interface is becoming increasingly scarce, and you should avoid it at all costs since it is difficult and it is not easy to use or durable like the other interfaces listed above.

When Should You Use A Standard Mount? 

This mount seems to be more old-fashioned. You should only consider using this mount if you want to have a vintage-appearing rifle or if you are attempting to match certain rings to an existing base on your rifle and you do not want to upgrade it to a more efficient interface.

Quick Release

When discussing scope mounts, the phrase “quick release” might be misleading (just like the Standard mount above). This is due to the fact that the word is both a description of how particular scope rings work and a specific interface from Leupold.

In this case, we will be discussing the special interface known as “quick release” rather than referring to a fast working mount.  We will discuss mounts or rings that quickly/easily release regardless of their interface in the next section titled SCOPE MOUNTING OPTIONS ( where we will talk about the broad meaning of the word “fast release”).

For instance, we can have a Picatinny ring that can be swiftly removed from the rail. These are Quick Release Picatinny rings, and they will not work with this particular Leupold mount model we are discussing.

Leupold’s “quick release or QR” bases and rings allow the rings to be freed from the base simply by pushing a lever on the base’s side. These were commonly used on safari-type rifles in which the scopes are easily removed when it fails while hunting dangerous wildlife.

Leupold QR bases are only compatible with Leupold QR rings.

When Should You Use A Quick Release Mount?

We don’t recommend utilizing QR bases or rings unless you are searching for this particular aesthetic or you are looking for a ring that will match the base that is already on your rifle.

Dual Dovetail Mount

The Dual Dovetail interface is an outgrowth of the above-mentioned standard interface. The identical mechanism from the front ring in the Standard interface is used in the Dual dovetail interface for front and back rings.

This system has certain advantages because it is highly powerful and will not easily fail. This is due to the fact that each ring is inserted and turned 90 degrees and locked into the base before installing the scope body in the rings.

As a result, as long as you leave the scope inside the rings, the rings will not be able to exit the base. The flaw in this mounting system is that the scope must first be removed from the rings before the rings can be detached from the rifle. 

When Should You Use Dual Dovetail Mounts?

We don’t recommend utilizing a Dual Dovetail base or ring unless you are seeking a particular function on your rifle or are looking for rings to match bases already on your rifle.

SCOPE MOUNTING OPTIONS

There are some words you will come across while deciding on the appropriate solution for mounting a scope on your rifle. These are not distinct interfaces but rather words or options that you may encounter within any of the mount interfaces we discussed above.

For instance, we have a variety of Picatinny Interface like Picatinny rings,  Picatinny offset interface, Picatinny quick release rings, Picatinny elevated base, or Picatinny cantilever mount.

Each of them is a one-of-a-kind item. But don’t worry, we’ll go through each of them here.

• Quick release rings

 These are rings that you can attach or remove from a rail or base without the use of tools. It is typical for a red dot scope or LPVO to use rings with a Picatinny interface however it must have a quick-release mechanism so that you can readily remove the optics when you want to change them.

• Off-Set Mount 

An offset rifle scope mount is one that is offset from the rifle’s centerline. This lets you attach a backup optic to your weapon. Offset rifle scope mounts are commonly employed in tactical rifles when an LPVO is combined with a red dot. A Picatinny offset mount is often positioned at an angle of 45 degrees.

• One-Piece Mounts/Rings

One-piece mounts/rings are usually needed for AR-style rifle scopes. This type of mount has two scope rings combined as one unit, which makes mounting a scope quicker and easier. It also provides an ideal platform for the Quick Release system because there is only one major attachment point for the mount to bind to the rifle.

• Cantilever Mount

When using an AR platform, it might be difficult for you to move the sight as forward as you want. This is due to the scope’s ability to be attached to a very short receiver. As a result, cantilever mounts with one-piece ring systems were developed, allowing the scope to extend beyond the receiver and provide a couple of inches of space for the shooter. A cantilever mount is ideal for putting a sight on an AR rifle.

Scope mounts: Factors To Consider

Weight and Durability

The material chosen to construct the mount determines its quality. Low-quality aluminum alloy is commonly used to make a cheap mount. If you need high quality, then look for models made of hard-coat anodized aluminum, ideally 6061 aluminum.

Furthermore, a lightweight, strong, and tough design is always a superior alternative because you can use it comfortably on the field.

Diameter

Check that the clamping system fits the diameter of your scope tube. If your scope has a 30mm main tube, for example, ensure that you make use of 30mm scope rings. This might sound unimportant, yet it is worth noting.

Mounting Interface 

You will need a mounting system that is appropriate for your weapon. Check the mount types we discussed above.

Picatinny rings will not always function with AR 15 platforms. This is because the handguard and receiver are distinct components; as a result, you should use a cantilever mount. A cantilever mount is more dependable and durable because it is a one-piece mount, and all of the hardware is kept on the rifle’s receiver.

Eye Relief

Whatever mounting mechanism you use, be sure you have enough eye relief when shouldering your rifle. Although eye relief is mostly determined by the particular rifle scope, you are using. If you cannot achieve the needed eye relief after your first mount, try moving the scope mount backward or forward on the rail till you have a full, clear, and better view.

Scope Height

The general rule when mounting a scope is to put the scope as low as feasible without interfering with other elements on the gun.

Most AR-15s and flat-top rifles feature a low cheek rest. If your scope is mounted too high, you’ll have to elevate your head, and you won’t be able to use the cheek rest, which is a very discomforting position.

When mounting a scope, I recommend trying to find a suitable scope height for your rifle and shooting position. Make sure the rifle has a nice cheek rest and that you can gaze through the scope with ease and precision.

When shopping, you may select between low, medium, or high ring heights. Additionally, a riser mount is another option for adjusting scope height.

Best Scope Mounts Reviews

1. American Defense RECON Scope Mount

The first scope mounting device we would review is the AD-RECON mount. I’ve used at least three different scopes on the range in a single day, and it was easy to switch between them.

The American Defense scope mount is a high-quality mount that is made in America for AR-style rifles, and it features a lot of cool technology. It has the proprietary QD Auto Lock Lever mechanism, which I’ll go into later, as well as a cantilever mount that shifts the scope forward for proper eye relief. This mount has 1 inch scope rings and properly fits any 1 inch optics. 

Looking at the weight of this mount, I would say that it is not so lightweight, and it is also not too heavy that you would need a sandbag to place the firearm every time you’re at the range. The mount weighs about 8.4 oz. when it is not attached to a scope. 

The American Defense brand produces high-quality products, and this particular mount is on par when compared with other companies. It is certainly worth the money when compared with lower-quality mounts that have a lower price. 

The AD-RECON is not only equipped with cutting-edge technology but it is also designed to withstand heavy firepower. This scope mount is made of a nicely machined aluminum alloy body that is finished in hard-coated Type 3 Mil-Spec anodize, making it highly durable and resistant to scratches. Not to add, how well it sits on my AR 15.

The installation of the AD-Recon is quick and simple. If you attach it to your AR 15, the scopes would be high enough that it would not be affected by the rear Back-up Iron sight and forward to provide abundant eye relief.

Other alternatives are available asides from this particular American Defense scope mount, so check around properly so you can find the best fit in terms of height. And also, ensure you measure based on the scope you intend to mount.

The QD Auto Lock Lever system works with both standard and non-standard rail systems. It permits rail tolerance variation, as well as repeatable installation. The overall design is intended to give a flexible and budge-free mount.

The fast-detach levers are spring-loaded, which makes reinstallation or removal easy and fast. It also won’t chew the rails like other mounts. The locking mechanism is simple to operate and secure, thanks to the well-designed levers.

The floating rings of the mount tighten at the top and base for uniform distribution, eliminating the need for fiddling to reach the exact balance. The whole mount remains at zero, even when I removed and replaced it on my rifle.

During installation, I advise keeping the top ring screws open and fastening the bottom ring screws first so that you can have a neat mount. I also propose a dab of Loctite to guarantee that it stays in place during usage and so that the screws will not rattle.

For adjustments, no tools are required. Instead, just release the lever and slowly spin the rear nut until the desired tightness is achieved.

Tension adjustments are quick and simple, with 8 points available. Most times, the rear lever might be tight or difficult to spin out of the box, but it will loosen over time. It is a very simple and straightforward mount for leveling my sight. It just needed one try for my Vortex Strike Eagle scope to be ready for action.

The AD-RECON is a sturdy, adaptable attachment for any AR-style rifle. It’s an excellent addition for a shooter that wishes to use several lenses on the same platform.

In conclusion, this mount is far more valuable than you are paying, and you are assured of its longevity. One reason I keep using this mount for my AR 15 rifle is the ease of reinstallation. If you’re debating whether the AD-RECON is the right mount for you, I suggest you try it. You will not be let down.

2. Burris Optics P.E.P.R. Riflescope Mount, Picatinny Ring

I have never been one of those shooters that go out to purchase the biggest and most expensive scope mount or shooting accessories on the market just to prove I could afford it. If there is any accessory that can accomplish the same task and is significantly less expensive, I generally choose that one.

There are situations when spending the additional money is justified since the quality would be most likely superior. One of those instances is using the Burris Optics mount.

It makes no difference whether you’re hunting pigs or practicing long range target shooting. This mount has 1 inch scope rings and properly fits any 1 inch optics, and keeps it tight throughout your shooting experience. 

Continue reading to see why you need this mount for all of your guns.

This Burris scope mount is one of the most sturdy mounts you’ll find in the market. It is very heavy with about 9 oz, but this additional weight makes up for its toughness. The finish of the mount is hard-coated and anodized. Once this mount is installed, neither the mount nor the scope will move until you tell it to.

It has three bolts on each side that can be used to tighten it, and it keeps my sight exactly at zero. I’ve smacked it on rocks, trees, and the floor while climbing uphill, and the mount has never shifted.

Because it is an elevated mount, it provides excellent eye relief and a wide field of view. It maintains the scope height of any rifle. One of the best aspects is that it provides 2 inches of forward placement on your rifle, which provides excellent eye relief.

I thought this mount would be a pain to install because it has six bolts which appear intimidating, and I imagined it would give me a headache while trying to line up the threads or tighten everything properly. But the mount proved to be easier than I expected. In fact, it ended up being one of the easiest ring mountings I have used.

Whether you shoot a centerfire or rimfire rifle, you can trust this scope mount. In long range shooting conditions, it can also withstand recoil without moving. When this mount is installed correctly, the scope attached to it will not affect the iron sights, whether they are rear backups or front backups.

This Burris mount comes with a smooth scope ring on top and Picatinny rails, which may be used to install various accessories. I enjoyed using it while hunting because I could add a flashlight to it. It is not necessary, but it can be quite useful.

Without a doubt, this mount will serve you well if you own an AR rifle or any platform. Aside from that, it also comes with a fantastic Burris Warranty.

If you’re searching for the best scope mount for your firearm, this mount with the steady scope rings will hold the scopes firmly during your shooting or hunting activities.

3. Leupold Mark Scope Ring Mount

Another excellent scope mount we would review is the Leupold Mark. Leupold is an American-owned business known for high-quality shooting accessories. The brand has been designing, manufacturing, and assembling shooting instruments and other goods for over a century. This particular product is no exception to their quality items. Leupold’s has kept their promise on the commitment to customer satisfaction.

Leupold Mark bases are built to last. This sturdy, reliable, and durable mount comes with 3 lugs and 5 mounting bolts to interface with the top rail so that they can be attached firmly and remain in place. They are finely machined from aircraft-quality aluminum alloy and will give the strength you want while adding no extra weight. 

The Leupold scope rings on this scope mount can be relied on if you are shooting a centerfire or a rimfire rifle. It can also withstand the recoil in long range shooting conditions without a movement in the scope. This ar 15 scope mount has a 1 inch ring for holding the scope firmly on the rifle.

If this mount is correctly installed, the scope attached to it will not affect the iron sights, whether it is a rear or front backup iron sight. If you are looking for the best scope mount to install on your rifle, this Leupold mount should come in handy with the nice Leupold scope rings that hold the scopes firmly.

4. Aero Precision Ultralight Scope Mount

Aero Precision takes great pride in the kind of technology that goes into its manufacturing process. This brand has adopted the low-tolerance principles from aviation machining into its procedures for producing scope mounts and receivers. As a result, their scope mount is extremely light and durable.

Let’s have a look at the reasons…

The Aero Precision mount is very light. In fact, it has about half of the weight of its competitors. The Aero Precision mount is built with aviation-grade aluminum alloy and without any unnecessary components. I love the straightforward construction of the mount and the extremely rigid materials used.

I discovered that it was made with a hard-coat anodized finish which is difficult to damage and scuff. The lengthened mounting rings extended the position of my scope and made it two inches forward. This would make it easier to sight with an optic that has enormous eye relief.

Aero Precision brand places a premium on product quality control. They designed a very efficient framework for their manufacturing system, and all machining and tooling are done in-house rather than outsourced. The end product is a high-quality and reasonably priced scope mount.

The Aero Precision scope mount is ideally suited for AR systems equipped with Picatinny rails. It won’t work on a bolt action rifle because the scope will be too high to maintain a strong cheek weld.

The Aero Precision mount is a base and ring assembly. This one-piece mount comes with everything that is needed to successfully mount your preferred scope on a Picatinny rail. This mount has 30mm scope rings and properly fits any 30mm optics and keeps it tight throughout your shooting experience. 

To be honest, the installation was a bit tricky to handle. It is difficult to level the scope since the screws were positioned vertically rather than horizontally, as most people are used to with other manufacturers.

My scope shifted to the right while tightening the screws, so I simply offset to the left while screwing the mount. I visualized what I needed to do to compensate for the rotating scope by using buble levels. And to ensure that when I was done, my scope remained level.

The mounting was difficult, and it took several attempts for me to get my scope really level. I also noted that the torque was not clearly indicated in the mounting instructions. After some research, I discovered that the screws needed to be torqued to about 15 in/lbs.

Be careful not to overtighten; otherwise, the rings will shatter. If you don’t already own a torque wrench, I recommend you get one.

When poorly installed, the rings may not shatter immediately. They could start to break after a few usage in the field. Take special caution not to overtighten.

Aero Precision stands by their product, even if it fails due to faulty installation. If there are any issues, please contact them, and they’ll offer you a solution. Aero Precision Scope Mounts cost around 2 to 3 times less than the competitors. If you need a forward-mounted optic on your rifle, this is one of the best scope mounts for you.

FAQ

What’s the Difference Between Weaver and Picatinny Mounts?

While they look to be the same and serve the same purpose, they are totally distinct mounting techniques. A Picatinny mount features broader, standardized slot sizes for mounting mostly Picatinny accessories, with certain Weaver attachments accepted. Weaver mounts lack specified dimensions, feature smaller slots, and are exclusively made for Weaver accessories.

Can Picatinny and Weaver be used interchangeably?

A Picatinny and a Weaver mount shouldn’t be interchangeable. Although, It is possible, but not recommended. Picatinny rails feature broader, standardized, and consistent slots, whereas Weaver rails are narrower.

You can force a Weaver mount to be attached to Picatinny bases because Picatinny bases have wider slots. However, you can’t place a Picatinny mount on a Weaver rail because of the narrower slots.

Are Scope Mounts Universal?

Scope mounts are designed to be used either with a Weaver or Picatinny rail. This needs you to know what sort of mount you want, whether it has or does not have specific qualities that will match the scope, as well as what rail is presently on your rifle.

Many scope manufacturers have their own mount criteria that match the design and specs of their scope. As a result, even though they’re designed to work with Weaver or Picatinny rail, these optics will only be compatible with a specific mount (manufacturer’s mount).

Scope Mounting Tools and Accessories

When it comes to mounting your scope properly and ensuring accurate shots, having the right tools and accessories at your disposal can make all the difference. This section discusses some essential tools and accessories that can aid in the scope mounting process. Don’t worry; we’ll keep it simple and easy to understand!

Torque Wrench

A torque wrench is a must-have tool for scope mounting. It helps you tighten the mounting screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. This is crucial because over-tightening or under-tightening the screws can affect the scope’s alignment and zero. With a torque wrench, you can ensure consistent and precise tightening, preventing damage to your scope and mount.

Scope Leveling Kit

Achieving a perfectly level scope is vital for accurate shooting. A scope levelling tool typically includes a small bubble level that attaches to your scope’s tube and a levelling reference. By aligning the bubble with the reference, you can ensure your scope is mounted perfectly on your rifle. This simple yet effective tool eliminates any canting, which can lead to off-center shots.

Bubble Levels

Bubble levels are small, inexpensive accessories that can be attached to your rifle’s rail or scope mount. They help you confirm that your rifle is level before taking a shot. Keeping your rifle level is crucial for long-range shooting, as any tilt can affect bullet trajectory. Bubble levels make it easy to maintain a consistent shooting position and achieve accurate results.

Lapping Bars

Lapping bars are used to lap or smooth out the contact surfaces of scope rings. When mounting a scope, it’s essential to ensure that the rings have even and consistent contact with the scope’s tube. Lapping bars help eliminate any imperfections, creating a better mating surface between the rings and the scope. This enhances stability and improves the scope’s overall performance.

With these tools and accessories in your arsenal, you’ll find mounting a scope becomes a hassle-free process. Properly tightening screws, levelling your scope, and achieving optimal contact between rings and the scope tube will all contribute to a solid and aligned setup. Remember, accuracy starts with a well-mounted scope, so invest in these essential tools to elevate your shooting experience!

Scope Mounting Tips: Expert Advice for a Flawless Setup!

Mounting a scope on your rifle doesn’t have to be a daunting task. You can ensure a smooth and successful mounting process with a few handy tips and tricks. 

Aligning Reticles

Before tightening the scope rings, you should align the reticle (crosshair) with the rifle’s bore. To do this, place your rifle in a stable rest, and look through the scope at a distant target with a clearly defined vertical or horizontal line. Adjust the scope’s windage and elevation knobs until the reticle aligns perfectly with the target’s line. This ensures that your scope’s point of aim is precisely aligned with the bore, minimizing potential sighting errors.

Lapping Scope Rings

Lapping scope rings is a lesser-known technique that can significantly improve the mounting process. By lapping the rings, you remove any high spots or irregularities on the interior contact surface, ensuring a more even and secure fit on the scope tube. This enhances stability and maximizes the scope’s ability to hold zero. Lapping is especially beneficial for precision shooting and long-range accuracy.

Choosing the Right Ring Height

Selecting the appropriate ring height is vital to achieving a comfortable and ergonomic shooting position. Low rings may cause your scope’s objective lens to touch the barrel, while high rings can lead to an uncomfortable cheek weld. To determine the ideal ring height, place your rifle in your preferred shooting position and check if the scope’s bell clears the barrel and if the eye relief is comfortable. Opt for rings that provide sufficient clearance without compromising your shooting posture.

Further reading: how to measure scope ring height

Using Thread-Locking Compounds

To ensure that your scope rings stay securely in place, consider using thread-locking compounds on the mounting screws. These compounds prevent screws from loosening due to vibrations or recoil, maintaining a stable scope setup. Be cautious not to over-tighten the screws after applying the thread-locker, as it can make future adjustments challenging. A little goes a long way with thread-locking compounds.

Importance of High-Quality Scope Rings and Bases

Investing in high-quality scope rings and bases can make a world of difference in your shooting experience. 

Stability Matters

Scope rings and bases act as the foundation for your scope, keeping it securely attached to your rifle. High-quality materials and construction ensure that the rings hold your scope firmly in place, even during intense recoil or rough handling. 

Zero Retention is Key

Zeroing your scope is time-consuming, and you want it to hold its zero for as long as possible. Cheap or poorly constructed rings and bases can cause your scope to lose zero over time, requiring frequent recalibration. On the other hand, premium-quality rings and bases maintain your zero, allowing you to shoot with consistency and confidence, shot after shot.

Material Impact Performance

The material used in rings and bases is critical to their performance. High-quality materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum or steel, provide strength, durability, and resistance to wear. Lesser-quality materials may bend, warp, or degrade over time, compromising the stability of your scope. 

Reputable Brands

Opting for reputable brands with positive reviews gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re investing in a reliable product. Well-established manufacturers put their products through rigorous testing and quality control, ensuring that they meet the highest standards.

Troubleshooting Common Scope Mounting Issues

Mounting a scope on your rifle can sometimes lead to a few pesky problems that affect your shooting accuracy. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with step-by-step troubleshooting solutions to fix these common issues. Let’s tackle them one by one!

Scope Canting (Tilting)

Problem: Your scope appears to be tilted or canted, causing the crosshair to be off-center.

Solution: First, double-check if your rifle’s bore and scope’s reticle are aligned. Use a level on both the rifle’s receiver and scope turret to ensure they are perfectly level. If the scope still seems canted, loosen the scope rings slightly and make minute adjustments to the scope’s position until the crosshair is perfectly aligned with the rifle’s bore. Use a bubble level to guide you. Tighten the scope rings gradually and evenly, alternating between the screws, to secure the scope in its corrected position.

Misalignment

Problem: The scope’s reticle is not aligning with the point of impact, resulting in inaccurate shots.

Solution: Check the scope’s windage and elevation adjustments. Ensure they are set to the center or zero position. If your shots are still off-target, verify that the scope rings are tightened evenly and securely. Unevenly tightened rings can cause misalignment. If needed, adjust the scope’s windage and elevation knobs following your rifle’s manual instructions to bring the point of impact to the center of the crosshair.

Scope Shifting

Problem: Your scope seems to move or shift after firing shots, impacting your zero.

Solution: One common cause of scope shifting is loose mounting screws. Check all the screws on the scope rings and bases and make sure they are tightened to the recommended torque setting. If your scope still shifts, consider using thread-locking compounds on the screws to prevent them from loosening due to recoil or vibrations.

Scope Mounting for Different Firearms

Mounting a scope on different firearms requires understanding the nuances of each type. Let’s dive into the specific considerations and challenges you may encounter when mounting scopes on various firearms:

AR-15s

AR-15 rifles are highly popular and versatile, commonly used for target shooting and self-defense. When mounting a scope on an AR-15, choose a Picatinny or Weaver mount that matches the AR-15’s rail system. Ensure it provides the right eye relief for your shooting style. Due to the AR-15’s recoil and semi-automatic action, opt for a sturdy scope mount that can handle the rifle’s repetitive firing. Consider a cantilever mount for AR-15s to position the scope forward for better eye relief and shooting comfort.

Bolt-Action Rifles

Bolt-action rifles are renowned for their accuracy, making them popular in hunting and precision shooting. Scope mounting for bolt-action rifles requires attention to detail. Choose a mount with proper ring height to ensure the scope doesn’t interfere with the bolt’s operation. For long-range shooting, use a strong and durable mount to maintain zero retention during heavy recoil. Pay extra attention to levelling the scope and mounting rings to ensure accurate shots at various distances.

Lever-Action Rifles

Lever-action rifles like the Henry 22 lever action have a unique design with a top-ejecting mechanism, which can affect scope mounting. Look for a scope mount designed specifically for lever-action rifles to ensure proper clearance for ejection. Use offset or scout-style mounts if you prefer to keep the traditional iron sights while adding a scope for versatility. Opt for lightweight and compact scope mounts to preserve the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics.

Shotguns

Shotguns are primarily used for hunting and clay shooting, and they require specialized scope mounting. Choose a shotgun-specific scope mount that can withstand heavy shotgun recoil without shifting. Consider using a red dot or reflex sight for quick target acquisition, especially for tactical or home defense shotguns. Make sure the scope is mounted far enough back to accommodate the shotgun’s recoil and maintain eye relief.

FAQs

What are the best scope mounts for long-range shooting?

For long-range shooting, you’ll want a scope mount that is sturdy and reliable to maintain accuracy over longer distances. Look for scope mounts made from high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, which offer durability without adding too much weight to your rifle. 

How do I ensure proper alignment and installation of scope mounts?

Proper alignment and installation of scope mounts are crucial for accurate shooting. Start by ensuring the base of the scope mount fits securely on the firearm’s rail. Use a torque wrench to tighten the mounting screws. To ensure the scope is level, use a scope leveling kit or a bubble level during installation. 

Are there any specific scope mounts for tactical rifles?

Yes, there are scope mounts designed specifically for tactical rifles. Tactical scope mounts often feature quick-detach mechanisms for rapid removal and reinstallation, allowing the shooter to switch optics or use backup iron sights easily. These mounts are built to withstand the rigors of tactical shooting, with robust construction and reliable retention of zero.

Which materials are commonly used in scope mount construction?

Scope mounts are typically made from durable materials such as aluminum, steel, or titanium. Aluminum is the most common choice due to its lightweight nature and adequate strength for most shooting applications. Steel scope mounts are heavier but offer greater durability and resistance to recoil forces. Titanium mounts are the lightest and strongest, but they tend to be more expensive. The choice of material depends on your specific shooting needs and preferences.

What is the maximum weight capacity of scope mounts?

The maximum weight capacity of scope mounts can vary depending on the specific make and model. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications for each scope mount. Most scope mounts are designed to handle the weight of typical riflescopes and accessories, but if you plan to mount heavy or specialized optics, make sure to choose a scope mount that can support the weight without compromising stability.

Can I mount a scope without professional assistance?

Yes, you can mount a scope on your firearm without professional assistance. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, many shooters successfully mount their scopes at home. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the appropriate tools, such as a torque wrench, to tighten the mounting screws to the recommended specifications. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s always a good idea to seek guidance from an experienced shooter or a gunsmith.

Are quick-release scope mounts reliable and secure?

Yes, quick-release scope mounts can be reliable and secure when they are of good quality and correctly installed.