Did you know that there were over 11 million hunters in the United States as of the year 2020? In order to be a successful hunter, you need to have the right equipment that is up to the task.
One of the first investments, after investing in a rifle, is to buy a scope for accurate firing and target identification. What many people forget is that they need the right scope mounts for their rifle and scope. But how do you know which types of scope mounts are best for your situation?
You’ve come to the right place to learn about rifle scope mounts. Whether you want to buy scope mounts, sell scope mounts, or just learn which ones are best for you, this article will assist you. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about scope mounts.
What Are Scope Mounts?
Rifle scope mounts are an important component for a tactical or hunting rifle. If you’re someone who prefers having optics on your firearm then scope mounts are a must-have. They provide the base to which you attach your rifle’s scope.
Without a reliable and sturdy scope mount, your scope is inaccurate and useless. Even if your rifle scope is off by a fraction of an inch, it’s enough to ruin your aim and increase the likelihood of you missing your target.
The Different Scope Mounts
It would be convenient if all rifles and rifle scopes had the same fit, but that isn’t the way things are. Because of this, it is vital that you know the different types of scope mounts and which will work best with your rifle and scope combination.
Here is a closer look at the different types of scope mounts.
One-Piece Mount
One-piece scope mounts are one of the simplest types of scope mounts on the market today. They’re a convenient one-piece design and they eliminate the need for you to align the scope on your rifle. This means that you can install a one-piece mount on your own.
They do have the drawback of being one of the heavier scope mount options. If you’re worried about your rifle’s weight they might not be the right fit for you. They also might require a rail base in order to install onto your rifle.
Scope Rings
Scope rings are another popular option that has been on the market for decades. Scope rings work in much the same way that a one-piece mount works, but scope rings are lighter, smaller, and usually less expensive. The two scope rings attach to your rifle and hold your scope in place.
The installation process for scope rings is a bit more difficult when compared to one-piece mounts. You have to ensure that each scope ring is perfectly aligned with the other.
Weaver Scope Mount
The Weaver scope mount is one of the very first scope mounts for rifles. Prior to the invention of the Weaver scope mount, scopes would be drilled directly onto the rifle. This meant that it was difficult to change scopes.
Because of the increased versatility that the Weaver scope mount offers, it is one of the most popular scope mounts in use today. They are one or two-piece rails with slots cut across them along with screw holes for mounting to the rifle. The downside to the Weaver scope mount is that it doesn’t have uniform slot width.
Picatinny Scope Mount
The Picatinny scope mount was created by the military based on the original Weaver scope mount design. The big difference when comparing the Picatinny scope mount and the Weaver scope mount is that the Picatinny scope mount is built to be universal. It is built to exact specifications.
This universality allows for Picatinny’s scope mounts to be completely interchangeable. While Picatinny scope mounts are sometimes able to mount to a Weaver scope mount, it won’t always work. Weaver scope mounts will also fit a Picatinny scope mount more regularly due to the width of Picatinny mounts.
Dovetail Scope Rings
Another immensely popular option for hunters and shooting enthusiasts is the dovetail scope ring. They’re a popular choice because they allow you to change your optics quickly and easily. For installation, the optics slide right on. If you want to change optics, the scope you wish to remove will slide off without issue.
Leupold STD Scope Mount
The Leupold STD (Standard) scope mount is designed to fit specific or particular rifles. It works by using a mount and ring system that has a locking front ring. This allows the rear of the scope to move both left and right. There are two screws on the rear ring that help you adjust for wind through tightening or loosening the screws.
The biggest drawback to the Leupold STD scope mount system is that, while it gives you a wide degree of adjustment, it can be difficult and complex to work with.
Offset Scope Mount
The offset scope mount is designed mostly for use on AR rifles as a way to mount your optics further toward the muzzle of the rifle. This is beneficial because the AR is not designed to accommodate larger optics, but the offset scope mount provides a solution. If you wish to use modern optics or sights then you’ll need rifle scope mounts like the offset scope mount.
Quick Detach Mount
If you’re planning on using a variety of different optics on your rifle then the quick detach mount is probably the best investment for you. This rifle scope mount helps you to quickly detach your optics and replace them with a different type without losing significant accuracy, if done correctly with a high-quality mount.
The added versatility that a quick detach mount allows makes your rifle even more useful. A quick detach mount works using a locking throw level that will hold up well under tough conditions.
Are You Looking To Buy or Sell Scope Mounts?
Scope mounts are an essential tool for anyone with a rifle. It doesn’t matter if you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or someone who needs it for tactical reasons. Scope mounts will help you fit your favorite scope to your favorite rifle and provide the accuracy and flexibility that you seek.
Click here to check out the best scopes and rifle scope mounts on the market at RBK Armory. Get your perfect rifle scope mounts today!