For long distance targeting, you require the best AR scope mount. When you have this kind of equipment, it gets easier to maintain consistency and precision during shooting. Mounts are units that consist of rings and bases. And these parts are responsible for keeping your AR rifles steady and in the right position.
So what’s the problem here? The issue is that the sea of AR 15 scope mount options on the consumer market makes the buying process confusing. All of these are compatible with the rifle, but it’s the value and quality that matter at such times.
This brings me to the reviews section of the article followed by a useful guide that makes choosing a scope mount a lot simpler.
Table of Contents
- Best AR Scope Mount: 10 Top Picks
- 1. CCOP MNT-1516 High Profile AR-ArmourTac Rifle Scope – The Best Lightweight AR Scope Mount
- 2. Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount – The Best High-Quality AR Scope Mount
- 3. Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings – The Best Affordable Two-Piece Construction AR Scope Mount
- 4. American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount – The Best AR Scope Mount for Heavy-Duty Purposes
- 5. Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Scope Mount – The Best Versatile AR Scope Mount
- 6. Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount – The Best One-Piece QD AR Scope Mount
- 7. TMS Flat Top 1 Piece Ring Mount Picatinny Rails – The Best Affordable One-Piece Construction AR Scope Mount
- 8. Vortex Cantilever Ring Mount for 30mm Tube – The Best AR Scope Mount for Precision
- 9. UTG 1”/2PCs High Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings– The Best Two-Piece QD AR Scope Mount
- 10. Nikon M-223 XR Mount – The Bonus Pick
- How to Choose the Best AR Scope Mount?
- The Bottom Line
Best AR Scope Mount: 10 Top Picks
The AR 15 is a rifle that’s available in a wide range of configurations. And that’s because it has been in the public industry for more than 50 years now. But the most popular design in the current market is the “flat top” model. (Different types of AR-style rifles)
Unlike the traditional AR 15, this particular rifle includes an integrated iron sight in place of the conventional carrying handle. And what does that do? It means you can use different types of mounting settings for optics and sights. In that case, here’s a list of the top 10 scope mount arrangements for your AR 15.
1. CCOP MNT-1516 High Profile AR-ArmourTac Rifle Scope – The Best Lightweight AR Scope Mount
Let me begin by stating that the CCOP MNT-1516 High Profile AR-ArmourTac Rifle Scope has an aluminum alloy structure. And it’s such a type of construction that makes the gear light in weight. So in this case, the whole purpose of using a scope mount makes sense.
The CCOP MNT-1516 High Profile AR-ArmourTac Rifle Scope has a sturdy one-piece design. And you’ll be quite thrilled to know that it’s compatible with all Picatinny rails. To make things even better, the manufacturer includes screws for installation. These make it possible for you assemble the mount on all 30mm riflescopes.
The best part about this mount is that it has an excellent high profile design that ranks exceptionally well when it comes to performance. And why not when it includes a 2-inch forward extension!
Even as far as durability is concerned, you have nothing to worry about. The equipment is built to withstand heavy and rough use. All in all, it’s a solid, stable structure that comes with the right kind of tools and screws. So you know it’s a perfect fit for your AR 15 rifle!
The lightweight design of the CCOP MNT-1516 High Profile AR-ArmourTac Rifle Scope is something that makes a huge impact. On top of that, it’s compact and durable as well. So there’s nothing more you could possibly demand with the scope mount!
The fit of the mount is quite up to the mark, but there is a minor problem. The CCOP MNT-1516 Mount forces the scope to seat a little towards the left of the axis. But it’s not like this interferes with the performance of the accessory.
The mount offers maximum accuracy for close range shooting.
High-quality materials used for construction.
The installation process is quite simple.
The mount pushes the scope slightly to the left.
The edges are susceptible to chipping.
2. Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount – The Best High-Quality AR Scope Mount
When it comes to reliability, you won’t find anything more trustworthy than the Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount. Nikon created this model to pair it up with its P-series collection of scopes. So you know that it’s specifically designed for AR 15 rifles.
With that in mind, it’s safe for me to state that this best AR scope mount is suitable for rifles with a large turret or even unconventional scopes.
Now let’s move on to the design of the Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount. The first thing that you might notice upon seeing the scope mount is the built-in rings. These rings are integrated into the body of the mount. Plus, both the mounts are separate units (two-piece construction).
You get the opportunity to move both the pieces as and when required. This means you can shift them for clearance when working around the turrets, charging handle, or forward assist. And to make the experience even more comfortable, the scope mount has an aluminum body with no frills.
Here’s something that might push you towards buying the Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount. You can reverse the two pieces of the equipment to grip the scope better. And what this does is provide excellent eye relief.
Although not a major drawback, the bulky design of the Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount is not what you’d expect. Despite the aluminum alloy construction, the mount is not as light in weight as it should be.
The installation and positioning of the mount are easy tasks.
The build quality is top notch.
It is not lightweight.
The fit of the mount is a tad too tight.
3. Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings – The Best Affordable Two-Piece Construction AR Scope Mount
It’s not so difficult to find budget-friendly options as far as the best AR scope mount is concerned. Thanks to equipment like the Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings. They have a two-piece design that offers an excellent value in terms of price.
Dealing with problems such as recoil issues requires the use of a scope mount, right? In that regard, you need something that secures your gun in a manner that doesn’t affect accuracy. So keeping that in mind, that’s what you get with the Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings.
They are responsible for holding zero, which constitutes as the primary function of scope mounts. But it’s the flexibility that the two-piece rings offer that take all credit for high performance. Such an exceptional multi-piece setup goes a long way in delivering maximum accuracy when on the field or range.
Another huge advantage is that the Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings are suitable for both Picatinny and Weaver rails. And the installation is no problem either. So if you’re looking for a simple, affordable scope mount, you know where to look!
During testing, I noticed one significant difference with these Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings. They tend to raise your scope high enough to provide maximum clearance. And this sounds like a huge plus point if you want to use open sights!
On the downside, the screws that come with the Accushot UTG High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings are a tad too short. This might be a problem when tightening them.
The rings are of high-quality.
They hold alignment perfectly.
The screws are not long enough to grip properly.
4. American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount – The Best AR Scope Mount for Heavy-Duty Purposes
When using the American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount, be prepared to experience something out of the ordinary. The remarkable AD-RECON scope mounts available in the industry are considered to be one of the best. And when working them, you don’t have to worry or even think about heavy recoil.
It doesn’t matter what kind of a scope you have, the lightweight of this best AR scope mount doesn’t offset any advantages. And I found this to be true during testing. The mount holds true even when you’re hiking right into the game field.
The repositioning of the scope mount is something that you can do by hand as well. This means no need to use a screwdriver for the task. The gear’s floating ring type setup is perfect for heavy hunters. And in fact, it’s this particular characteristic that sets the American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount apart from the others.
The whole design of the American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount is outstanding. This includes the quality of the rings, base clamping mechanism, quick and easy locking QD, etc. So in all aspects, it is quite an excellent option for your AR riflescope.
To be honest, I’m finding it difficult to give you any negative feedback about the American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount. And that’s because the unit is quite up to the mark. Nevertheless, I have to list down at least one flaw, however negligible, so here it is. You might want to use some Loctite for the mount’s screws to prevent potential stripping issues.
The mount is convenient to install, remove, and replace.
The quick adjustment system improves performance.
It has a lightweight body.
The mount might require the use of Loctite for high-pressure conditions.
5. Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Scope Mount – The Best Versatile AR Scope Mount
Think of all Burris mounts as your go-to option if you what you wish for is multi-functionality. To be more specific, Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Scope Mount is a force to be reckoned with.
The best part is that the mount is available in three different sizes. So you don’t have to struggle anymore to find that perfect mount to pair up well with wide range of angles. This allows you to use the same mount for all size guns. And what does that mean? It implies that you can use Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Mount to hold the zero position throughout multiple options.
The mount’s Picatinny top version is an excellent choice for a smooth close and long-range experience. The two nuts that the equipment comes with do a swell job at keeping it steady on those rails.
Plus, they are not susceptible to stripping. So if you have any worries about quality, now is the time to get rid of them.
The thing about Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Mount is that it enables you to use it on different riflescope sizes and models. You can even pair it up with a 50-mm scope without having to worry about excessive pressure. This is where all the versatility comes from!
There’s one major drawback though. Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Scope Mount offers high functionality alright. But the gear is a tad too bulky in design. However, that’s not something you can’t get used to.
The one-piece construction is well-made.
The flexibility of the unit is like no other.
Easy installation with rock-solid alignment.
The space between rings is too narrow.
It is not light in weight.
6. Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount – The Best One-Piece QD AR Scope Mount
It’s an exciting time for target shooters and hunters, isn’t it? More and more companies are manufacturing advanced products to make the experience better in every way. And the Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount is a proof of that fact. It is ranked the highest as far as convenience is concerned.
Firstly, I would like to add that this best AR scope mount is quick and easy to install on the rifle. The aircraft-quality aluminum alloy design combines with the anodized black matte finish to give you a good-looking mount. And the functionality of the gear is as exceptional as its physical appearance.
Case in point, the Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount features offset placed rings to offer all the eye relief you need for the activity. You can install the unit with the help of the quick detach system along with the adjustable levers.
Since we’re on that subject, here’s something you ought to know. To adjust the mount, all you need to do is push the lever in an unlocked position. That’s about it!
To sum it up, the Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount is light in weight yet strong enough to hold 30-mm tubes.
By far, the Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount is the only best option in the QD mount category. This one-piece accessory is quite convenient to replace or transfer. And with all the advanced features like the quick detach mechanism; you won’t feel the need to try out any other option.
While it’s true that the levers of the scope mount enhance performance, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea. It takes some time to get accustomed to using the QD system. So if you don’t mind being patient to get there, you can go ahead with the Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount.
The mount has an aircraft-grade construction.
The QD levers offer easy adjustments.
It provides maximum eye relief.
The QD levers might be too complicated for some.
7. TMS Flat Top 1 Piece Ring Mount Picatinny Rails – The Best Affordable One-Piece Construction AR Scope Mount
Durability and affordability almost never go hand in hand, am I right? But that doesn’t apply to the TMS Flat Top 1 Piece Ring Mount Picatinny Rails. This particular one-piece model has a budget-friendly price tag and is durable enough even for tactical purposes. What more you need, right!
The scope mount has an aircraft-grade construction of aluminum alloy. It fits Picatinny rails pretty well. And the center height of the mount rests at the much-needed 40mm height. You’ll be quite relieved to know that this best AR scope mount carries 30-mm and 60-mm scopes as well. (How do riflescopes work?)
The manufacturer has also included some great additional features for convenience. These include an accessory rail, ring top, and hex screw tools. All these contribute to enhancing the whole experience of using the best AR scope mount.
You should also know that the TMS Flat Top 1 Piece Ring Mount consists of rings that are perfect for scopes with a large objective lens. Plus, the whole body is light in weight. So usability and performance are factors that don’t let you down.
The stability and durability of the TMS Flat Top 1 Piece Ring Mount are the two characteristics that you might appreciate the most. The equipment is an ideal choice for beginners working with compact scopes for the first time.
Here’s the part that might dissuade you from purchasing the TMS Flat Top 1 Piece Ring Mount. During the installation process, you need to have enough arm strength to secure the screws tightly. Failing to do so brings tons on instability into the picture.
Despite an aircraft-grade design, the mount is lightweight.
Its center height offers enough room during aiming.
The holes for mounting are not deep enough.
Assembling the mount requires a lot of effort.
8. Vortex Cantilever Ring Mount for 30mm Tube – The Best AR Scope Mount for Precision
Yes, you read that right! As long as we’re talking about precision, nothing beats the Vortex Cantilever Ring Mount for 30mm Tube. If you desire to aim at the far ridge, it’s this Vortex Optics mount that will help you achieve the goal. You can take my word for it!
The company has a reputation for manufacturing performance-driven gear. With that in mind, expect nothing short of brilliance when using the Vortex Cantilever Ring Mount. It comes in an aluminum alloy casing with an additional 3-inch offset. Plus, the equipment is sufficiently tall for a complete co-witness.
This additional co-witness length allows you to receive proper eye relief. And such an advantage is useful when using big scopes that demand maximum eye relief. The co-witness also helps in keeping the reticle on track with your front sight. And what this does is simplify the scope’s sight picture.
All in all, the Vortex Cantilever Ring Mount is a rock solid option for those looking for precision.
The most appealing aspect of this best AR scope mount comes in the form of adjustability. The unit offers tons of convenience when it comes to adjusting it. And this goes a long way in making the whole experience smoother than you can imagine.
Everything about the Vortex Cantilever Ring Mount is top-level. Well, everything except for one. The scope mount is quite large in size. And this might be an issue for people who like to work with compact equipment.
The mount can withstand the test of time.
It comes with an additional 3-inch offset.
The fit and quality are excellent.
The mount is not small enough.
9. UTG 1”/2PCs High Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings– The Best Two-Piece QD AR Scope Mount
It’s quite a surprise to know that a two-piece QD scope mount has an affordable price tag. But, fortunately enough, that is true with the UTG 1”/2PCs High Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings. These rings have a diameter of an inch with a polymer tape lining. The latter contributes to protecting the scope in the most efficient manner.
Since this best AR scope mount features Picatinny grooves that have a lining near the top region, you get the upper hand. That’s because such a component gives you the opportunity to add additional QD accessories. And this sounds like a huge bonus point!
Lastly, the UTG 1”/2PCs High Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings have an aircraft-grade, high-quality aluminum construction. So you know that the mount is as rugged and durable as its more expensive counterparts.
Let me tell you something that you absolutely need to understand about the UTG 1”/2PCs High Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings. These offer tight, secure tolerance control. Along with that, you also get a repeatable, positive equipped locking system. These features deliver an optimally high re-zero performance.
Isn’t it disappointing when the scope mount rings are not high enough? Of course, it is. But if that doesn’t sound like such a major deal-breaker to you, there’s nothing else you need to worry about.
The mount is suitable for extreme operations.
It has a user-friendly, robust quick detach system.
The mount is incapable of holding zero all that well.
It doesn’t offer enough height.
10. Nikon M-223 XR Mount – The Bonus Pick
The bonus pick of the article had to be Nikon-made. The company does an excellent job at manufacturing the best riflescopes and scope mounts. And the Nikon M-223 XR Mount is no different. It is high-quality gear that fits all kinds of “flat top” style AR platforms. In fact, the mount is even suitable for Picatinny rails.
And that’s not even the best part. The most attractive characteristic is that the Nikon M-223 XR Mount is an ideal choice for long-distance shooting with your AR rifle. And it’s due to this particular reason that the mount consists of a special integrated inline. Such a component maximizes elevation.
As for durability, the lightweight yet stable aluminum alloy design takes care of that department. The entire unit is capable of withstanding harsh conditions without adding more weight to the rifle.
So it’s safe for me to state that this best AR scope mount is the perfect tool for long range shooting.
Do you know the basic functions of any best AR scope mount? It should be convenient to install, that’s one. Secondly, the mount ought to hold down the scope in the most efficient manner. So keeping that in mind, the Nikon M-223 XR Mount performs these two functions quite seamlessly.
On top of that, the equipment is suitable for heavy-duty purposes. No wonder it’s such a hit on the consumer market!
Not that it matters a great deal, but the screws of the Nikon M-223 XR Mount are shorter than you’d expect. This might cause a certain amount of frustration during the tightening process.
The mount aligns the scope perfectly.
It offers excellent long range performance.
Mounting the gear is an easy task.
The screws are not long enough.
Nikon Video – Mounting your Riflescope
How to Choose the Best AR Scope Mount?
Buying a high-quality, compatible AR scope mount is important, and you understand that now. But what’s even more necessary to understand is that the selection process requires you to have a basic idea about scope mounts.
The majority of options available in the industry either have a one-piece or two-piece construction. So how do you know which one to opt for? In that case, conducting a proper research contributes to purchasing the best AR scope mount for your rifle.
So let’s get to know the equipment a little better!
What is the Purpose of a Scope Mount?
The answer is quite simple. Any type of scope mount is responsible for holding down the scope to zero. That’s the only function of the gear. But some people prefer getting a scope mount that offers multi-functional features. These include mounts with iron sights, Picatinny rails, or integrated bubble levels. If that’s your deal too, then what you’re doing is adding unwanted weight and making the whole process more complicated for yourself.
The entire purpose of buying the best AR scope mount is to slim-line the rifle. This is why you find aluminum or ultra-light mounts available everywhere on the market. In fact, there are even smaller-sized combinations of base and ring.
But irrespective of the weight, a scope mount performs only a single important task. And that is to hold the scope down in the most efficient manner. As long as the unit you pick does that, you can go ahead with the purchase.
What are the Features of the Best AR Scope Mount?
When buying gun equipment and gear, it’s important to lay out your priorities. And these come in the form of features. With that in mind, read through the top 3 features that you need to take into account when dealing with an AR 15 scope mount.
1. Construction
By construction, I mean the weight of the mount. The lighter the weight, the easier it is to use the scope mount.
Most of the models present on the current market have one of the two types of construction. It’s either a one-piece or two-piece design. So whatever you decide to work with should be compact, convenient, and lightweight.
You also ought to know that scope mounts with an aluminum alloy structure are the lightest. So please keep that in mind during the selection process.
2. Position and Size
Small and low scope mounts are a perfect fit for all types of AR rifles. Such a kind of mount is quick and simple to detach from the weapon.
I would like to add another important point regarding the position and size of scope mounts. Before deciding what to buy, make it a point to have enough iron sight options at your disposal. That’s because the backup sights ensure that you buy a sufficiently tall scope mount.
3. Durability
If the mount is not compatible with those Picatinny tails or durable enough, then what’s the point!
The whole purpose of getting a scope mount is so that it holds the rifle with utmost consistency. And for such an equipment to offer maximum precision, it should rank high when it comes to durability.
How is the Best AR Scope Mount Different from the Rest?
There’s always a reason why a certain product stands out from the crowd. In the case of scope mounts, you’ll come across a few distinctive features that make some models better than the others.
For one, renowned gun equipment manufacturers install scope mounts with an inch or less tube that you mount on your rifle to maintain accuracy and precision. To be more specific, one-piece structured mounts don’t offer manual adjustment for the ring location. This makes the scope mount easily to install as a single unit.
On the other hand, some of the best two-piece versions require you to use a screwdriver to adjust the ring placement and scope. Now, this is not such a bad idea. And that’s because such a design has the ability to deliver more precision and accuracy when it comes to long-range shooting.
The Bottom Line
My Choice: Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount
The thing about AR 15 scope mounts is that they contribute to maintaining accuracy and precision. So with such a benefit, shooting long-distance becomes easier. In that case, it’s better to buy a product that you know has the ability to withstand the test of time. And nothing beats the Nikon P-Series Riflescope Picatinny Mount as far as durability is concerned.
But the scope mount offers more than just that. It gives your proper eye relief, forward positioning, and height on all types of rifles. The gear has a strong aluminum alloy design, plus its light in weight.
The two-piece structure is reversible to deliver extreme flexibility for mounting. And lastly, it has a Made-in-USA tag, which says it all!
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