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Best AR Scope Mounts Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Whether you’re adding on a scope to your shotgun, or it’s your tactical rifle that needs outfitting, there’s one thing that will be at the mind’s forefront--keeping your gun as streamlined and light as possible.
While the benefits of having a scope are huge, there are some drawbacks in terms of the added weight and bulkiness to your gun. And a lot of that weight and bulk comes from the bases and mounts that you choose to install your scope with, so choosing correctly is key.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Weight
When considering the products that would make this Ten Best List, weight was our first and main consideration. Why? Because every single piece that you add to your gun will add more weight and bulk, and in some cases, it can even throw off the balance and alignment of your gun and therefore, your shot.
So we work to bring you the most durable mounts that weigh the least amount so that you can enjoy the happy medium of lightweight functionality.
The lightest product on our list weighs in at just over 3 ounces. The heaviest product weighs in at just over 9 ounces. While this difference may seem small, you will definitely be able to notice it while you are out in the field.
It is important to note that the more premium-priced options on this list are often the lighter ones. The reason for this is that these products are made with higher quality metals (that are more expensive) that have the capacity to deliver strength as well as lightweight bodies.
Compatibility
When looking at a product’s compatibility, we are looking at 2 things here. First, we are looking at what kind of rail the product needs to be installed on, and secondly, we are looking at what diameter scope the product will accept.
There are two different types of bases (rails) that you will typically encounter on a gun--the Picatinny and the Weaver. We go into detail about these below in the Expert Tips section, so we won’t go too much into it here. But it is important to know which rails you are working with so that you purchase the correct mount. We value ones that can be installed on both styles.
The most common optics (scopes) measure 1 inch in diameter or 30 millimeters in diameter. It is important to know the diameter of your scope (or scopes) before placing your mounting order. Many of the products on this list come in various sizes which allows you to get the right fit for you. We value products that can accommodate both sizes.
Durability
As always, we want to ensure that we are showcasing products that are built to last. We are proud to report that many of the products on this list are manufactured and produced in the United States. These products tend to be more reliable and better made.
Most of the products on this list are made from aluminum and aluminum alloys. The strength of each product varies based on the grade of the aluminum.
We value products that have been anodized and that can stand up to heavy recoils and shocks as this is necessary for the job at hand.
Features
In terms of features, there are a few key things we like to point out.
First, we love products that come with multiple different ring toppers. We love the products that come with additional rail mounting toppers so that you can add even more gear to your set up. We like that these are interchangeable and can be switched out for the standard ring toppers when they are not needed.
Secondly, we like products that are reversible, as well as product that allows you to lock the lever in the front and in the rear. This allows you greater control over installation and configuration.
Third, we look at the quick-release components of a mount. These are a cool feature that will allow you to change your set up on the fly in the field.
Finally, we like products that come with ample eye relief capacity. Most of the products on this list feature at least 2 inches of eye relief extension that will make the mount more comfortable and will allow your field of view to be clearer. We especially like those products that come with different options to suit your needs.
Value
We always want to deliver the literal best bang for your buck. While both the premium priced and inexpensive items on this list offer many of the same features, they differ somewhat in weight and quality. As we mentioned before, if weight is not an issue for you, go with a cheaper mount. Most of them work just as well.
10 Best AR Scope Mounts
1. Aero Precision Ultralight 30MM
The Aero Precision Ultralight 30MM is the perfect way to kick off this Ten Best List. Not only is it one of the lightest options on our list, but it is also one of the most durable. This product is extremely easy to install on a Picatinny base and screws in cleanly without any extra bulk making it a winner across the board in our eyes.
Incredibly Lightweight
The Aero Precision Ultralight 30MM is an incredibly lightweight product. In fact, it weighs in at just over 3 ounces! This is one of the lightest items on our list and you will truly be able to feel the difference when holding your rifle in your hand between a heavier mount and this one.
This product is not only light, but it is also incredibly streamlined. It is designed to be mounted onto a 1912 Picatinny rail. With simple flush screws on the side, you can easily secure this mount to the Picatinny base without worry about extra bulky screws that could catch on something.
It is compatible with upper receivers (AR). The rings measure 30 millimeters in diameter. This is a one-piece mount.
Incredible Durability
This item is also super durable, despite being insanely light. It is made of durable aluminum and coated in anodized black finish meant to last a lifetime.
With a keyway cross-slot feature, the mount is able to withstand some shocking recoils and you won’t have to worry about it budging.
Plus, the rear ring on this product is set back 2 inches which help immensely when compensating for appropriate and comfortable eye relief.
The screw torque on this product is 15 inches per pound.
Cost and Value
The Aero Precision Ultralight 30MM rings up towards the top of our price range but we love its value because it is the very best in the business. It manages to deliver a minimal weight package while still being highly durable, meaning that it will last for years to come.
2. Warn Gen2 Skeletonized 30mm
The Warne Gen2 Skeletonized 30mm is another incredible, mid-range priced product that balances durability with a low profile. It was designed to provide ample eye relief and maintain zero, no matter the recoil. Plus, it comes in an array of sizes and colors so you can be sure to find the perfect fit for your AR style gun.
Multiple Size Options to Choose From
The Warne Gen2 Skeletonized 30mm comes in an array of color and size options. You can pick this product up in 6 different matte finishes including black, red, and green.
We love that this option comes in a variety of sizes. You can order this in a 1-inch diameter, a 30-millimeter diameter, or a 34-millimeter diameter.
This product comes in just one piece to add to its durability.
1 Inch Cantilever
The Warne Gen2 features a 1-inch cantilever which will come in handy in delivering better eye relief on your scope once it is installed.
This is on the lighter side and its skeletonized design of aluminum is to thank for that. It weighs in just above 8 ounces, so it is twice the weight of the previous product on our list, but still not wildly heavy. It is durable and can maintain zero even against recoil shocks.
The Gen2 comes with 8 fasteners that are Torx style with inserts that are threaded with steel which helps to increase security and lower the risk of stripping.
It is compatible with Picatinny rails.
Cost and Value
The Warne Gen2 Skeletonized 30mm rings up towards the top of our price range but we love its value because it is made in the USA, it comes in such a wide array of options that you can find one to be compatible with your gun, and because it is super durable without being incredibly heavy.
3. Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny
The Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny is the first two-piece mount to make our list. Because of its design, it is another incredible lightweight option and it is one of the best AR flat top scope mounts out there. You will also enjoy a bit more freedom with mounting configurations with this as well.
Reversible Mount
The Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny is designed to be installed on a Picatinny rail that is flat on top. We love this because you can install it facing in either direction (as it is reversible) which gives you a lot more liberty in the eye relief you can achieve.
With this option, you will be able to get more height and the correct distance, and you will also be able to have full access to most to the charging handle on your rifle.
Cuts Down on Bulk
This Nikon scope mount is a lighter weight option that cuts down on bulk because it is a two-piece. It is made from a durable aluminum alloy that allows it to remain lightweight while still being resilient. It weighs in at just over 6 ounces.
It can accommodate scopes that are one inch in diameter.
Cost and Value
It rings up in the middle of our price range. We like its value because it is made in the USA and because it offers the strength of a heavier mount while providing a lightweight frame with multiple installation options for more control over comfort and eye relief.
4. Burris
This option from Burris is another great one-piece option. It comes with some unique design features that set it apart from the bunch. With a quick-release option, and additional rail mounts on top of the mount, you will be able to adjust your gear with extreme ease.
Quick-Release Option
The Burris is made with quality craftsmanship from aircraft-grade aluminum materials. This product is designed to be compatible with a Picatinny rail.
We love that it comes with a quick-release option (you can purchase the same mount that does not have the quick-release feature for about $20 dollars less). This feature comes with two secure levers (that have a locking mechanism on them for added security) that will allow you to detach the mount from your gun in a matter of seconds.
Because of the added features on this product, it weighs in at a bit over 8 ounces.
More Rails on Top
This is one of the only on our list and on the market that comes with additional mounting rails on the top. Each of the rings on this product come with Picatinny rails on top of them. You can use these to mount additional gear on top of this mount which will give you more variety and versatility while you are out in the field.
If you are not in need of these additional rails, you can remove them from the mount.
This will give you 2 inches of additional eye relief and it comes in 2 sizes: 1 inch and 30 millimeters.
Cost and Value
The Burris rings up on the higher end of our price range and we love its value because it comes with features that you won’t readily find on other products--especially at this price point. Plus, it can be configured to do a few different things so it’s like having a few mounts in one.
5. Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever
The Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever is the most premium item on our list. It offers more potential eye relief and a variety of sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your exact needs. It will cost you a little extra, but the durability and craftsmanship of this product won’t disappoint.
Variety of Eye Reliefs Available
This comes in a variety of sizes which also offers up different eye relief capabilities. You can order this product in 1-inch or in a 30-millimeter diameter. Both of these come in either 2 inches of eye relief capacity or in 3 inches of eye relief capacity.
We love these options because, for one, it offers up more relief capabilities than any other on our list, and for two, because it allows you a greater chance to find that just-right fit.
Low Profile
The Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever has all of the perfect measurements down. It has a low profile at just 1.59 inches in height and it weighs in at just over 6 and a half ounces. Its aluminum body allows it to remain lightweight while still being shockingly durable.
It is designed to be installed on Picatinny rails with flat tops.
Cost and Value
This rings up at the very top of our price range but we love its value because it comes in a variety of sizes and offers up more eye relief capacity than others on our list while still maintaining a low and lightweight profile.
6. Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring
The Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring is the first super budget friendly option to hit our list. And though it is less expensive, it still embodies many of the traits and features of the more expensive options that you’ve seen on our list so far.
2 Inches of Eye Relief
The Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring may be inexpensive, but you won’t have to compromise on eye relief or on comfort here. You will still enjoy two inches of additional eye relief extension that you can enjoy a comfortable and full field of view.
This product is designed to be installed on Picatinny flat top rails.
Made from Durable Aluminum
The Monstrum is made from 6061, lightweight aluminum that holds up extremely well under pressure. This is where you will notice the biggest difference between the more premium products and this product.
It weighs in at just over 9 ounces, making the heaviest product on our list so far. If you are already looking to cut down the weight of your gun, then this is not going to be the product for you. But if weight is not an issue, this is a budgeter’s dream.
Cost and Value
The Monstrum rings up towards the bottom of our price range and we love its value because you’ll still get many of the features of more premium products while still getting the security of a lifetime product guarantee.
7. MIZUGIWA Cantilever Weaver Dual Ring
The MIZUGIWA Cantilever Weaver Dual Ring is another great budget option that provides a few key features that we love in more premium products for a much lesser price. Again, you will see the main difference in the overall weight of the product, but this is a great option if weight isn’t your main concern.
Additional Optional Rails
This comes with additional rail options so that you can hit the field with all of the tactical gear that you need. With Picatinny rail mounts that can be installed on top of the ring mounts, you will easily be able to install a red dot or flashlight for any tactical purpose imaginable.
We love that you can choose to install these or go with the standard ring tops based on your specific needs.
Fits Picatinny and Weaver
The MIZUGIWA is super special in that it is compatible with both Weaver and Picatinny mounts. This makes it a great option for a larger array of guns and shooters.
This is a durable one-piece product that can hold its own against recoils. It offers up 2 inches of eye relief like you’ve come to expect from quality mounts. It weighs in at around 8 ounces.
Cost and Value
This rings up at the bottom of our price range and we love its value because it features the additional mounting bases on top of the mount rings. This is so that you can always have your tactical goodies with you for whatever the field throws your way.
8. OpticsSolutions Tactical Cantilever Ring
The OpticsSolutions Tactical Cantilever Ring in a great middle of the road option for our list. It combines durability with a decently lightweight body that gives the eye relief and flexibility you need for optimum visibility.
Lever Locks at Front and Rear
This is a versatile option that has a leaver that can lock into place at either the front or at the rear. This gives you greater control over the eye relief and location of your scope. You will enjoy up to 2 inches of eye relief potential with this product.
We love that this product is easy to install and that you won’t need any special tools to complete the installation process.
Clamps On Super Tight
The OpticsSolutions is designed to be mounted on Picatinny rails. It is constructed to have a super secure fit that won’t budge and that can sustain some serious onslaught from powerful recoils.
This is a one-piece product made from 6061 super-durable aluminum. It is hard coated and anodized in Mil-Spec Type 3 so that you can count on this product to have an extended life.
This product weighs in at just 7 and a half ounces, making it a great lightweight option for less than the premium lightweights on our list.
Cost and Value
This rings up in the middle of our price range and we like its value because it is a great lightweight option that won’t break the bank and that still boasts a robust and durable build for longterm use.
9. Modkin Rings
The Modkin Rings are another budget option on our list that have a great compatibility factor. These will work on both Weaver and Picatinny mounts and will give you more freedom for the style of install that you are after, allowing you to fit your needs to a T.
Built In Tape Feature
This has a unique feature that you won’t find in other products in the field. These rings each come with a built-in tape feature. Why, you ask? If you’ve ever had a mount that wasn’t exactly smooth on the inside, you’ll have your answer.
Sometimes mounts can come to you with rough or uneven finishes due to manufacturing defects. This condition can make it hard to get your scope in the rings of the mount, and it can also cause the scope to become scratched and damaged by the mount.
The built-in tape eliminates that possibility and also serves to hold your scope in the mount even more securely.
Dual Compatibility
The Modkin Rings can be installed either on Picatinny rails or on Weaver bases that measure 21 millimeters.
This product has a sort of skeletonized body that allows to it remain durable while still having a lighter weight. In fact, each ring weighs in at just 2 ounces each!
You will be able to use these rings with scopes that measure 1 inch in diameter.
Cost and Value
This ring up at the very bottom of our price range and we like their value because they are an incredibly lightweight, versatile, and cost-effective option that will keep your optics safe and free from damage.
10. Zeadio One-Piece
We close out our list with the Zeadio One-Piece. This product is friendly to the pocketbook while still offering some cool tactical features that will serve you well in the field. Plus, because it can accept multiple scope diameters, you can use this for a variety of optics.
More Rail Options
The Zeadio One-Piece comes with multiple ring tops which will allow you to customize your experience. You can choose to install the standard ring tops or go with the Picatinny rail tops if you have additional tactical gear like lasers that you wish to add to your set up as well.
Plus, this product comes with a quick-release feature that will allow you to have more control over the overall weight of your gun in emergency situations. These release levers do not have a safety locking function on them.
Accepts Array of Scope Diameters
The Zeadio is unique in that it can accept more than one sized diameter of scopes. You will be able to use this mount with optics that measure 1 inch in diameter as well as 30 millimeters in diameter.
This is a one-piece product that is made from aluminum alloys that meet aircraft-grade qualifications. It weighs in at around 8 ounces, so it is definitely not a super lightweight option if that is what you are in the market for.
Cost and Value
This rings up towards the bottom of our price range and we like its value because it comes with a one year warranty and because it offers some premium style features at a literal fraction of the cost of premium mounts.
Sources
- , Picatinny Rails vs. Weaver Rails, Article
- , Mount a Rifle Scope Yourself in 7 Easy Steps, Article
- , The Importance of Eye Relief, Article
