Finding the right AR 15 scope is not just a stroll in the park. You need to have some knowledge about it. Rifle users considered AR scopes as an essential accessory to help them in improving their shooting skills. A scope will let you view your target better by magnifying it.
The primary purpose of using this rifle accessory is to increase the accuracy and range of the user. AR scope will not be as accurate as you expect it to be if you failed to find the perfect mount for it. The mount is vital since it serves as the link between your scope and the rifle.
In this post, we have reviewed some of the best AR 15 scope mounts in the market today to help you find the right support for your scope and rifle. At the end of this review is our final verdict and mentioned which we think is the best among the best scope mounts.
Top 5 Best AR 15 Scope Mounts Comparison in 2021
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Top 10 Best AR 15 Scope Mounts Reviews
AR scope mounts are available in two types the one-piece and the two-piece. Choose the one that will help you shoot better.
1. Aero Precision Ultralight Scope Mount (30 MM)
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Aero Precision Mount is known for its superb machining and engineering. You can rely on it when you needed it the most. The brand has been recognized by the military and law enforcement group because of its performance.
Razor-Thin Tolerance Level:
As compared to other 30mm AR scope mounts, Aero Precision Ultralight Mount is known for its durability and reliability. The manufacturer makes sure there is no margin for error. They boast about their razor-thin tolerance levels. It offers a straightforward design, easy to install, and very light. This AR mount can be installed on any Picatinny 1913 rail.
Easy to Install and Detach:
The Aero Precision Lightweight Mount is easy to attach. With its ring’s smart design, you can connect it to a riflescope without any difficulty. On top of the half-ring pieces, there is a connecting joint similar to a hook. It joins the two halves together once you tighten the two ring screws below.
CNC-Machined:
6061-T6 extruded Aluminum is used to manufacture this mount and is CNC machined. The ring size is 30 mm and is also available in 1 inch with a 1.5-inch ring height. The Aero Precision mount has a type-3 hard anodized finish with Cerakote colors in FDE.
Cross-Slot Keyway:
In ensuring the scope is secured, it uses a cross-slot keyway even when in heavy recoil. Also, an ideal AR-10 scope mounts option. It features a dual-screw to tighten the mount from the side to assure excellent grip to maintain your zero—better eye relief with its rear ring that is pushed forward two inches.
Three Coil Lugs:
Another great feature is the three recoil lugs with screw holes designed for the three mounting screws. You don’t have to worry about the aluminum rail finish getting scuffed up by exposed screw threads.
Verdict:
If you are looking for an inexpensive but reliable and durable AR 15 scope mount, Aero Precision is highly-recommended.
2. American Defense AD-RECON 30 Optic Mount
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Our list will not be complete if we will not include the AD-RECON 30 STD. Riflescope Mount by American Defense. The brand offers several options to you find the perfect mount that will suit your rifle best.
Low-Profile:
The AD-RECON mount is low profile to get the optical center as close to the bore as possible. It is a tactical-oriented mount recommended for flattop AR 15 scopes.
Easy to Install and Detach:
Attaching and detaching is easy without losing zero. Switching to different scopes is easy with its Patented QD Auto Lock lever system. The quick detach lever makes it easy for you to adjust when used on Picatinny rails Mil-Spec or not.
Size and Height:
AD-RECON mount is designed for scopes with 30 mm tube diameter and an objective lens of up to 56 mm. The cantilever enables you to position the scope forward, providing more room to adjust for better eye relief.
CNC Machined:
This mount is CNC machined using durable 6061-T6 Aluminum finished with hardcoat anodized for longer life. Also, it includes an American Defense lifetime warranty. It weighs 8.4 ounces and can be used with or without a riser.
Patented QD Auto-Lock Titanium Lever System:
One of its distinct features is the Patented QD Auto-Lock Titanium Lever system. It enables the users to adjust without requiring any proprietary tool. A flat blade screwdriver is enough to fit the scope or even using a finger. The mount attaches firmly to the rail, and the lever locks to the rear or front, depending on the user’s preference. The cantilever’s length provides an easy exit pupil.
Verdict:
The mount may have the best clamping power, but some rifle owners cannot afford it. The lifetime warranty is a good thing and keeps the users at ease.
3. Burris 410345 AR-Peprx 40mm Scope Mount
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Burris is a famous brand in the scope mount industry. Its P.E.P.R. is one of the best AR scope mounts. This mount may have a simple design, but the users can adjust the rings and bases according to their needs. It can be mounted securely both on the Picatinny and Weaver-style rails.
Efficiency:
The Burris P.E.R.R. AR mount is referred to as a mount for all occasions. Tactical shooters and hunters depend on this mounting rifle accessory, with many options on securing a mount into a Picatinny and Weaver-style rail. This brand performs very well and provides better performance than others. Duty officers are users of this scope mount because it is quite efficient.
6-Screw Ring Design:
P.E.P.R. has a modern design with a matte black finish. It is made from Aluminum and steel that weighs around 8.3 ounces. The six-screw ring design ensures a long-lasting hold and durability.
Easy to Install and Detach:
For easy attaching and detaching, it has two lock levers at the mount base. The distance from one ring to the end of the second is 105.41 mm, while the distance between rings is 54.61 mm.
Better Eye Relief:
Burris AR scope mounts are said to be the answer for all rings and bases. It has two-inch forward positioning for better eye relief and shooting. Easy to customize depending on your needs, sporting, tactical, etc. It’s easy to detach feature makes mounting to other rifles fast and easy, maintaining zero on every switch.
Verdict:
If ease of attaching and detaching is essential to you, the Burris Optics P.E.P.R. is the ideal scope mount for your rifle.
4. Vortex Optics Sports Cantilever 30mm Scope Mount
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Vortex Optics will fit AR 15 with a flat top perfectly. You can choose between a 30 mm AR scope mount and a 1-inch mount, both with two inches offset.
Durable and Sturdy:
Vortex is famous because of its performance and for being durable and robust. It deals with recoils effectively and fits perfectly on the base. Even after hundreds of rounds, the screws remain in place and hold zero.
Uses Torx Screws:
This mount uses Torx screws and opens at the top and not on the sides. It prevents overtightening when installing the scope. Vortex mount may look peculiar, but it is very useful. This scope mount is famous because of its durability.
Lightweight:
This machined scope mount has a minimalistic design with a black finish. It is made from 6061-T6 Aluminum and weighs 6.75 ounces. The total length is 149.81 mm, and the height at 40.39 mm in height from the base.
Easy to Install:
Installing it on Picatinny rails is simple. It does not require a special tool. It has a reliable build quality to last longer. You will not encounter any issues when changing in case you have more than one rifle.
Versatile:
It is quite versatile as you can install it on various ARs and scopes. This scope mount is quite versatile. It has better eye relief and appropriate head placement on the rifle.
Verdict:
Overall, the Vortex Optics Cantilever scope mount is a well-thought-out design, and it can withstand the test of time. Best for hunting, target shooting, or combat use.
5. P-Series Riflescope Mount by Nikon
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Nikon is known for its digital cameras for many years. The company is also becoming famous for its scope mounts. Nikon’s products are evolving and innovative, adapting to the changing times. The brand offers two types of rail mounts for the AR15 – the 2-piece Picatinny rail mount and the 1-piece AR-15 mount that applies cantilever design.
Versatile and Lightweight:
The 2-piece is quite versatile and can fit different scopes. It holds zero even with two pieces. This mount weighs less but quite durable and precise. It weighs 6.1 ounces with an Aluminum construction. It is a tough competitor for other mounts available in the market. Nikon scope mounts for AR 15 is recommended for powerful, long-range rounds.
Great Design and Construction:
Nikon P-Series has a great-looking piece mounting system construction, which is popular for its precision. It can perfectly fit a flattop rifle and remain positioned for proper eye relief and accurate positioning to hit the target. This mount comes in black or dark earth colors.
Easy to Install:
The Nikon P-Series reversible 2-piece design provides flexible mounting. It makes mounting to its proper height easily.
Precise Fore-Aft Positioning:
It has accurate fore-aft positioning for precise shooting techniques with great eye relief. For an ultra-compact scope, it is reversible. This mount fits any flattop Picatinny rails.
Verdict:
This tactical scope mounts can be customized to fit a particular user. The Nikon P-Series fits the Nikon P-tactical combat range but works well with other scope brands.
6. SWFA S.S.A.L.T. 30mm Scope Mount
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The SWFA SSALT scope mount is a 1-piece, cantilever riflescope ideal for any platform that uses the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail mounting system, weaver design, and the 2009 NATO STANAG 4694 STD system. It works with both the 30 mm and 1-inch tube scopes.
Durable:
This mount is quite durable, even if it is made in China. The quality is not as impressive as the others, but it is not bad at all. If you don’t have to swap optics on your rifle, it does not concern you at all if it does not have QD swivels. It holds firmly on Weaver AR scope mounts, 2009 NATO and 1913 Picatinny railings.
Six-Ring Screws:
The versatility of The SWFA SSALT scope mount is also worth mentioning. It uses six ring screws as compared to others with two or four screws only. This provides a secure fit without the need to apply too much torque to the screw.
Compatible with Sightmark Night Vision Rifle:
This mount is heavy because of its design. It works well on Sightmark Photon XT night vision rifle scope. After firing several rounds, it remains at zero.
Construction:
It is made of quality materials at an affordable price.
Verdict:
SWFA S.S.A.L.T scope mount is not that impressive, but we still included it in the list because of its price.
7. Weaver Thumbnut Spr 1″ Scope Mount
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The Weaver Thumbnut Mount is constructed for AR-style rifles. Special Purpose Rifle mount is quite ultra-durable with less weight. It has a sleek design to provide optimal height.
Made of High-Quality Material:
Weaver Thumbnut SPR fits Picatinny rails. This scope mount is made of high-quality material essential in maintaining zero. The mount’s rise enables the rear iron sight to sit well under it without taking enough room.
Lightweight and Durable:
This scope mount has a specialized, sleek design with a forward cantilever for AR platform rifles. It has a lightweight design, made from 6061-T6 Aluminum with a black matte anodized finish.
Rugged Cross-Lock Base:
Weaver SPR has thumb-nut bolts to turn leverage and a 4-hole ring design for better grip power. The thumb-nut bolts make tightening, removing, or fastening the screws much easier as it does not require a special tool. It features a rugged cross-lock base for optimum gripping strength.
Verdict:
A scope mounts with impressive grip power. It is durable enough to make sure it will remain at zero. The height is high enough to let the iron sight sit underneath.
8. Leupold Integral Rail Mounting System
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Leupold Integral Rail Mounting System has a matte finish, which mounts directly to 1913 Picatinny to increase the scope’s height and push it forward. Having this mount means you don’t need specialized optics or risers with shortened eye relief.
Easy to Install and Detach:
It is a good mount, particularly for AR-15 Colt. The Leupold Mark 4 mount is recommended for 30 mm tube scopes. It has the same style used for the 1-inch tube scopes. Leupold is an easy to install and a quick disconnect scope mount AR and deals with recoil well.
Made from Aircraft Aluminum:
The Mark AR has a 1-inch tube diameter designed for 30 mm tube scopes. The Leupold mounting for a one-inch tube has the same style as the 30 mm. It is at the right height and eye relief for AR flattop rifles. Made from aircraft Aluminum, lightweight, and the mounting system is quite durable.
Full-Lifetime Guarantee:
It features 4-screws for each ring top that sits into steel inserts for better grip. This Leupold AR scope mounts come with a Full Lifetime Guarantee. The product is tested to withstand the rigors of the field.
Verdict:
A good scope mount that can survive rigorous use and can be easily attached to 1913 Picatinny railings.
9. Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring Scope Mount
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The Monstrum Offset Dual Ring Mount fits any standard Picatinny rail equipped rifle. It is one of the popular mounts with an offset design to compatible with the typical 1-inch tube rifle scope.
Offset Design:
The offset design adds 2-inches of forwarding extension to allow better flexibility for accurate shooting position and eye relief. It does not require tooling marks. It has smooth edges with six screws built-in rings. The mount is easy to attach and detach.
Precise Vertical Clearance:
The mount’s total length is 5.75 inches. The base is three inches long, and the distance between two bolts is two inches. It needs three inches of rail space to install. Monstrum Offset height between the top base and bottom rings is around one inch, with one-inch vertical clearance.
12 Torx Bolts:
Monstrum Offsite Scope Mount features 12 hardened steel Torx bolts to torque down the scope mount to the required specification firmly. Torx screw is more secured than the regular cross-head or flat head screws. It enables higher torque transmission so it can be tightened more securely.
Made from 6061 Aluminum:
It is made from 6061 lightweight aluminum that can perform well even under pressure. This offset cantilever weighs around 9 ounces, a bit heavy than other scope mounts. If weight is not a problem for you, this is a good option.
Verdict:
The Monstrum Offset Dual Ring is an affordable scope mount with many good traits and features. If you are on a budget, this is the right product for you.
10. Ade Advanced Optics PS001C Offset Cantilever Scope Mount
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An experienced merchandise expert designed the Ade Advanced Optics PS001C. It is sold at a price lower than other brands. The brand is known for quality scope mounts for years, and PS001C is one of them.
Three-Bolt Clamping System:
The 3-bolt clamping system holds the scope firmly to the rail. The relief cuts on the scope tube prevent scope pinching and ensure clamping forces are distributed evenly on the scope body’s top and bottom.
Lightweight:
This scope mount weighs 6 oz with 1.5 inches in height. The screw torque weighs around 15 lbs. The mount has no protruding levers, knobs, or bolts to rap your knuckles or might get caught on your dress, surroundings, and gear.
Lifetime Warranty:
The manufacturer is confident about their products as it includes an excellent Lifetime Warranty.
Verdict:
The Ade Advanced is stable on the rail, and it includes complete instructions with torque specs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best AR 15 Scope Mounts:
Finding the perfect AR 15 scope mount for your rifle is a challenge. We will ease your burden in choosing and have listed below the factors you should consider to pick the right product.
Scope Tube
Choose a scope mount that will fit the scope. If you pick the one that is not compatible, the accessory will be unusable. Ensure the fit is just right, meaning it should be not too loose or too tight.
The tube diameter is the key factor you need to determine to know if the mount will work for your rifle or not. The most common measurements of the scope tube are 30 mm, 34 mm, and 1-inch.
Some scope mounts have adjustability features. Others whistle and bells to provide universal fit with the majority of the scope tubes. To be safe, select the one that is specifically designed for use with your scope tube diameter.
Scope Height
The scope height affects the point-blank range and the accuracy of shooting. As the height increases, the point-blank range becomes shorter. It means that you need to set the scope at a lower height.
General rule is to mount as low as possible and ensure that the scope will not touch the rifle’s barrel or any part. The closer the centerline of the scope to the bore, the more accurate it will be.
The lower you mount the scope, the closer it will be on the bore’s axis, the more it will provide the consistent focus needed for long-range shooting accuracy. Scope height affects the rifle’s longevity. The higher the optic, the more torque, and force will affect the recoil. For high-powered rifles, it can wear out the scope easily or sometimes break it.
Scope Length
Most of the best scope mounts in the market have an adjustable length. You must know your sight height before ordering your scope mount. The eye relief and how fit is the mount are involved when choosing the scope length. It is best to talk to the manufacturer’s representative before ordering.
Construction Material
Check what the scope mounts are made from. The durability of the product depends on this. Scope mounts are made from different materials. But the most popular ones are hardened Aluminum, hardened steel, zinc alloy, and various alloys of Aluminum.
The best material for scope mounts is solid steel and high-grade Aluminum, as they are quite durable and do not add a lot of weight to your rifle. But if you need to choose between Aluminum and steel, keep in mind steel is heavier but more durable. Aluminum is rust and corrosion-resistant.
Mounting System
If you have different types of rifles, you need to consider the mounting system before choosing. The mounting system will help you decide whether you will pick the detachable or the fixed one.
Fixed Mounting System
This type of mount is recommended for shooters who prefer to affix the accessory permanently on their rifles. Fixed mounting has less chance of damaging scope parts since you don’t have to remove it. It is sturdier and weighs less than others.
Detachable Mount System
Some shooters own more than one firearm. They can save a lot if they choose a detachable mount system. It is designed for easy removal and usually has quick detached levers.
Rail
Similar to the mounting system, the rails the mounts use is also essential in choosing the accessory. This will determine the ease of installation, durability, and suitability of your rifle. You need to decide between weaver and Picatinny rails.
Weaver Rails
The widely used rail is the Weaver, and it is what most shooters choose because it is easy to detach without the need to remove the base. Reattaching is also easy, and it does not lose the accuracy. Most of the time, it has a flat 7/8-inch broad base with crosswise recoil slots cut out.
Picatinny Rails
Picatinny rails have wider base slots compared to weaver rails. Weaver rings can still fit Picatinny bases, but the Picatinny rings will be a bit wider if you have a weaver base.
Ease of Use and Installation
The best AR 15 scope mount is the one that is easy to install and use. It means there is no need for you to bring your rifle to the gun store for installation. Good thing that most of the mounts are made for DIY installation. Even beginners can do it by themselves. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and you will be up in no time.
Ensure the mounts will not give you difficulties when using. Choosing a mount that is easy to use is more essential, particularly for detachable scope mounts, since with fixed mounts, it is secured permanently.
Eye Relief
Another essential factor to consider when looking for scope mounts is the distance between the scope and eye or the eye relief. The eye relief has something to do with the scope height. Having a low scope height will provide better accuracy, is more comfortable, and has better eye relief.
It is best to have a good cheek rest on the rifle to make it easier for you to look comfortably on the optic. If the scope is mounted high, it will be hard for you to look through the scope if you use a cheek rest. You will need to lift your head as you try to use the scope. This is not quite comfortable, but it can reduce accuracy.
Scope Ring Size
Before buying a scope mount, you also need to consider the scope ring size. There is a formula you can use to determine the right ring size for a specific rifle type. But it depends on the chassis you are measuring. Generally, the scope ring size depends on the rifle size, model, and other parts.
Types of Scope Mounts
The internet has full discussions about which is better, the one-piece or the two-piece scope mounts. To help you sort this out, here are some of the characteristics of each type:
One-piece Scope Mounts
- Add height to place the scope into a comfortable and proper position.
- It can push the optic forward to extend the scopes and achieve better eye relief.
- Sope rings are aligned instantly.
- Heavier, but usually stronger and more rigid.
Two-piece Scope Mounts
- It is much lighter as compared to one-piece scope mounts.
- It is recommended to hunters who require easy access to the mag or chamber.
- Easy to align, but it still needs some alignment.
- More affordable and readily available.
- The scope rings are interchangeable between rifles.
Durability
Do not forget to check on the durability of the scope mount. It should be something you can depend on and can hold zero even after several uses. The price is the least important for rifle owners. They are more concerned about the durability of the product. The best scope mounts are those that will last long and retain the quality of their performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
1. How high should a scope be mounted on an AR?
The height will depend on the weapon you are using, but in general, the lower, the better. If you cannot go low, then you can go medium. If you can’t go medium, then go high.
2. How much clearance do you need between scope and barrel?
As long as the scope is not in contact with the barrel, there is no problem. A distance of 6mm is a bit close clearance, but it is still acceptable. If you move the scope up 3mm, this is not much, but you are the determining factor.
3. Does scope height affect accuracy?
Many think the accuracy of your shots can be affected by the height of the scope. But for some, if you are consistent on how you settle and mount the rifle, it has a bigger role in accuracy than scope height.
4. Will any scope work on AR 15?
There are several factors that you need to consider when choosing a scope for your AR 15. Pick the one with features and specifications that will suit your needs. A scope may vary on the reticle that magnifies the image. Manufacturers use different kinds of a reticle on their scope so that you can choose the one with the right reticle.
5. What size scope mounts do I need?
The most popular sizes of scope mounts in the market are the 30mm and the 1inch. The scope tube diameter determines the size you need. Scope mounts are used for smaller caliber rifles that do not require a bigger optic. Consider the activities you plan to have before you purchase one.
6. Do I need a 20 MOA scope mount?
The 20 MOA base is required only on some applications. If a shooter adjusts the elevation dial on the scope for ranges longer than it targets, it will lose elevation in the scope. Most of the time, it is around 600 yards.
It depends on the rifle and purpose. Most of the time, when paired with a flat cartridge, the scope used cannot dial the added 20 MOA of elevation out to maintain your target at 100 yards. The weapon must then be aimed at 200 or 300 yards. It will depend on the combination of rifle, cartridge, and scope, so you must know how much MOA of elevation travel a scope has before buying a 20 MOA scope mount.
7. What are the best scope mounts for AR 15?
The ten products we have reviewed above are some of the best scope mounts you can consider buying for your AR 15. Choose the one that will provide more accuracy, durable and reliable.
Final Verdict
After reviewing 10 of the best AR 15 scope mounts in the market today, we choose Vortex Optics Sports Mount as our top pick. Vortex uses Torx bolts that keep the scope mounts in place. It is also durable and sturdy and helps you increase your accuracy. Aiming your target has never been easy, thanks to Vortex scope mount. Our second best is the Burris AR PEPRx Scope Mount. Both are high-performing and quite reliable.
Before buying a AR 15 scope mount, take note of what your rifle requires. Consider the above factors when deciding. It will ensure you will get the perfect product. If you find this review helpful or have some ideas you want to share, please comment below.