AR-15 Scope Mounts
AR-15 Scope Mounts
Selecting the proper scope mounts and risers is essential for optimizing your AR-15's performance. These components provide stability for your optics and improve accuracy and shooting comfort. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the different types of scope mounts and risers and their key features and offer insights into choosing the right ones for your AR-15.
Scope mounts are crucial for securing your optic to your AR-15 and ensuring it remains zeroed under heavy use. The type of mount you choose can significantly affect your shooting experience.
1. Types of Scope Mounts
One-Piece Mounts:
One-piece mounts offer a solid base for your optic, providing excellent stability and ease of installation. Leading manufacturers like Vortex Optics and Leupold produce high-quality one-piece mounts ideal for shooters seeking a reliable and durable option for their AR-15. These mounts are particularly beneficial for long-range precision shooting, where maintaining zero is critical.
Two-Piece Mounts:
Two-piece mounts provide more flexibility, allowing for customizable placement of the rings on your rifle's rail. Aero Precision and Burris are known for their lightweight yet durable two-piece mounts, which are perfect for shooters who prefer to minimize the overall weight of their rifle while still maintaining a secure optic setup.
Cantilever Mounts:
Cantilever mounts are designed to provide extended eye relief by positioning the optic forward on the rail. This design is handy for AR-15s equipped with scopes that require more space. American Defense Manufacturing and Warne are two brands that offer cantilever mounts with quick-detach options, allowing for easy removal and reattachment without losing zero.
1.2 Material and Build Quality
The material of your scope mount directly impacts its durability and weight. The most common materials are:
- Aluminum: Known for being lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum mounts, such as those from Vortex and Aero Precision, are popular among shooters who prioritize weight reduction without sacrificing strength.
- Steel: Steel mounts, like those from Leupold and Warne, offer maximum durability, making them ideal for rugged environments. While heavier, steel mounts provide added strength and longevity.
Choosing the suitable material depends on your shooting needs and the conditions you expect to encounter.
Overview of Scope Risers
Scope risers help adjust the height of your optic, allowing for better eye alignment and improved shooting posture. For AR-15 shooters, risers help ensure proper sight picture and shooting comfort.
2.1 Purpose of Scope Risers
Scope risers elevate the scope to a more comfortable height, allowing for better alignment between the optic and your eye. This adjustment is especially beneficial for shooters who need a higher optic position due to body mechanics or to achieve a co-witness with iron sights. Companies like UTG and Leapers are known for producing high-quality risers with reliable performance across various shooting styles.
2.2 Types of Risers
Fixed Risers: Fixed risers provide a simple, stable platform for raising your optic to a set height. These risers are commonly used by shooters who know their preferred height and don't require adjustability. Midwest Industries and UTG offer various fixed risers suitable for different AR-15 setups.
Adjustable Risers: Adjustable risers allow you to raise or lower your optic depending on your preferences or optic choice. These risers, like those from Leapers and Strike Industries, are perfect for shooters who frequently switch between different optics or require versatility in their setup.
2.1 Purpose of Scope Risers
Scope risers elevate the scope to a more comfortable height, allowing for better alignment between the optic and your eye. This adjustment is especially beneficial for shooters who need a higher optic position due to body mechanics or to achieve a co-witness with iron sights. Companies like UTG and Leapers are known for producing high-quality risers with reliable performance across various shooting styles.
2.2 Types of Risers
Fixed Risers: Fixed risers provide a simple, stable platform for raising your optic to a set height. These risers are commonly used by shooters who know their preferred height and don't require adjustability. Midwest Industries and UTG offer various fixed risers suitable for different AR-15 setups.
Adjustable Risers: Adjustable risers allow you to raise or lower your optic depending on your preferences or optic choice. These risers, like those from Leapers and Strike Industries, are perfect for shooters who frequently switch between different optics or require versatility in their setup.
Key Features to Consider while buying an AR-15 Scope Mounts
3.1 Height and Offset
Determining the correct height for your optic is essential for proper eye alignment and shooting comfort. If the optic is mounted too high or too low, it can negatively impact target acquisition. The offset, or how far forward or backward the optic is placed, also affects shooting posture. Aero Precision and Burris offer mounts with varying heights and offsets to accommodate different shooting styles and needs.
3.2 Mounting Systems
Most AR-15 scope mounts and risers use the Picatinny or Weaver rail systems. Vortex and Leupold provide mounts compatible with both systems, ensuring shooters can easily find options that fit their rifle's configuration. Picatinny rails are more commonly used and feature standardized spacing, making them ideal for most AR-15 setups, while Weaver rails offer slightly narrower slots and may require specific mounts.
3.3 Return to Zero
The ability to return to zero after detaching and reattaching a scope is crucial for maintaining accuracy. This feature ensures that your optic retains its zero without needing recalibration. American Defense Manufacturing and Warne produce quick-detach mounts that consistently return to zero performance, which is especially valuable for shooters who frequently switch optics or mounts.
Compatibility and Fitment
4.1 Compatibility with Optics
Choosing a suitable mount or riser for your optic ensures a secure and stable fit. Scope tube diameter is one of the most critical factors, as mounts are often designed for specific tube sizes. Brands like Vortex and Leupold offer mounts compatible with a wide range of scope sizes, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your setup.
4.2 AR-15 Variants
Not all AR-15s are identical, and different variants may require specific mounting solutions. For example, custom-built or modified AR-15s might have unique rail configurations or accessories that affect mount placement. Leading manufacturers like Burris and Aero Precision provide a variety of mounts designed to accommodate different AR-15 models, ensuring compatibility with your specific setup.
AR-15 Scope Mounts Installation Tips
5.1 Tools Required
Installing scope mounts and risers requires precision, and using the right tools is critical to ensuring a secure fit. A torque wrench is essential for tightening screws to the proper specifications, while screwdrivers and Loctite help secure the installation. Following the manufacturer's recommended torque settings ensures your optic stays firmly in place without over-tightening.
5.2 Step-by-Step Installation Guide
To properly install your scope mount or riser, begin by placing the mount on the rail and securing it with the provided screws. Make sure the optic is level and positioned correctly for your shooting stance. After securing the mount, use a torque wrench to tighten the screws to the recommended specifications. This process ensures stability and prevents your optic from shifting during use.
Choosing the proper scope mounts and risers for your AR-15 is essential for improving accuracy, stability, and shooting comfort. Whether you need a one-piece mount for long-range precision or a cantilever mount for extended eye relief, manufacturers like Vortex, Leupold, and Burris offer high-quality solutions for every shooter. Explore your options today and find the perfect setup to enhance your AR-15's performance.
Choosing the proper scope mounts and risers for your AR-15 is essential for improving accuracy, stability, and shooting comfort. Whether you need a one-piece mount for long-range precision or a cantilever mount for extended eye relief, manufacturers like Vortex, Leupold, and Burris offer high-quality solutions for every shooter. Explore your options today and find the perfect setup to enhance your AR-15's performance.
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Out of stock
UTG Flip-to-Side Ring Mount
Leapers / UTG
MSRP: $25.97$12.97UTG Flip-to-Side Ring Mount The UTG flip-to-side, Picatinny/Weaver QD ring mount is a patented, innovative design that allows target acquisition at varying distances and flexible position accessory. It is precision machined from aircraft-grade aluminum...MSRP: $25.97$12.97 -
Out of stock
Aim Sports Inc. 1" 45 Offset M-LOK Light / Laser Mount
Aim Sports Inc.
MSRP: $39.99$29.95Aim Sports Inc. 1" 45 Offset M-LOK Light / Laser Mount Cutting edge modular design allows use as a stand alone rail panel, or a light mount for commonly available 1" body flashlights. Black anodized 6061 T6 aluminum U.S. made steel...MSRP: $39.99$29.95 -
Out of stock
Strike Industries Universal (Optics) Mount for Glock - Black
Strike Industries
MSRP: $54.95$44.95Strike Industries Universal (Optics) Mount for Glock- Black Strike Industries is proud to introduce a revolutionary new product The Universal (Optics) Mount for Glock. It has the lowest height-over-bore mount in the industry without the hassle...MSRP: $54.95$44.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, Extended - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $130.00$106.95Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, Extended - FDE Featuring a rigid, lightweight design, our Ultralight 34mm Extended Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 1", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to...MSRP: $130.00$106.95 -
Out of stock
Midwest Industries 1" Gen 2 Scope Mount
Midwest Industries
MSRP: $157.95$146.95Midwest Industries 1" Gen 2 Scope Mount Precision Forward Offset Scope Mount with Superior Durability for AR Platform Rifles. The Midwest Industries 1" Gen 2 Scope Mount is designed for shooters who demand a heavy-duty, forward offset mounting solution...MSRP: $157.95$146.95 -
On Sale
Aero Precision Cantilever 30mm Red Dot Scope Mount - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $84.99Now: $61.40Was: $72.24Aero Precision Cantilever 30mm Red Dot Scope Mount - Anodized Black Ideal for 30mm red dot sights, our Cantilever 30mm Scope Mount features a rigid, lightweight body and is compatible with many high-end optic platforms. This scope mount is designed to...MSRP: $84.99Now: $61.40Was: $72.24 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Cantilever 30mm Red Dot Scope Mount - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $89.99$76.95Aero Precision Cantilever 30mm Red Dot Scope Mount - FDE Ideal for 30mm red dot sights, our Cantilever 30mm Scope Mount features a rigid, lightweight body and is compatible with many high-end optic platforms. This scope mount is designed to fit Mil-Spec...MSRP: $89.99$76.95 -
On Sale
AERO Precision Extended 2" SPR Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount
Aero Precision
MSRP: $120.00Now: $93.49Was: $102.95Aero Precision Extended 2" SPR Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount The Aero Precision Extended 2" SPR Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount is expertly engineered to enhance your shooting experience. Uniquely designed with a rear ring pushed forward by 2", it offers...MSRP: $120.00Now: $93.49Was: $102.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Extended - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $115.00$97.95Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Extended - Anodized Black Our Ultralight 1" Extended Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 1", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with...MSRP: $115.00$97.95 -
On Sale
Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Extended - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $125.00Now: $97.74Was: $106.95Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Extended - FDE Our Ultralight 1" Extended Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 1", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec...MSRP: $125.00Now: $97.74Was: $106.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, SPR - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $120.00$102.95Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, SPR - Anodized Black The Aero Precision Ultralight 1" SPR Scope Mount offers a cantilever style scope mount with the rings pushed 2" forward for large scopes and results in improved eye relief. In addition...MSRP: $120.00$102.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, SPR - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $130.00$97.95Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, SPR - FDE Our Ultralight 1" SPR Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 2", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec 1913 Picatinny...MSRP: $130.00$97.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Standard - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $110.00$89.95Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Standard - Anodized Black Featuring a rigid, lightweight design, our Ultralight 1" Standard Scope Mount complements many high-end optic platforms. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with...MSRP: $110.00$89.95 -
On Sale
Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Standard - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $120.00Now: $93.49Was: $102.95Aero Precision Ultralight 1" Scope Mount, Standard - FDE Featuring a rigid, lightweight design, our Ultralight 1" Standard Scope Mount complements many high-end optic platforms. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec...MSRP: $120.00Now: $93.49Was: $102.95 -
On Sale
Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Extended - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $115.00Now: $89.24Was: $97.95Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Extended - Anodized Black Our Ultralight 30mm Extended Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 1", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers...MSRP: $115.00Now: $89.24Was: $97.95 -
On Sale
Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Extended - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $125.00Now: $97.74Was: $106.95Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Extended - FDE Our Ultralight 30mm Extended Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 1", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec...MSRP: $125.00Now: $97.74Was: $106.95 -
Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, SPR - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $130.00$106.95Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, SPR - FDE Our Ultralight 30mm SPR Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 2", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec 1913...MSRP: $130.00$106.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Standard - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $110.00$89.95Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Standard - Anodized Black Featuring a rigid, lightweight design, our Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount complements many high-end optic platforms. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with...MSRP: $110.00$89.95 -
Out of stock
Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Standard - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $120.00$102.95Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Standard - FDE Featuring a rigid, lightweight design, our Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount complements many high-end optic platforms. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec 1913...MSRP: $120.00$102.95 -
On Sale
Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, Extended - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $120.00Now: $93.49Was: $102.95Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, Extended - Anodized Black Featuring a rigid, lightweight design, our Ultralight 34mm Extended Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 1", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is...MSRP: $120.00Now: $93.49Was: $102.95 -
Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, SPR - Anodized Black
Aero Precision
MSRP: $125.00$106.95Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, SPR - Anodized Black Our Ultralight 34mm SPR Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 2", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with...MSRP: $125.00$106.95 -
Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, SPR - FDE
Aero Precision
MSRP: $135.00$111.95Aero Precision Ultralight 34mm Scope Mount, SPR - FDE Our Ultralight 34mm SPR Scope Mount features a rear ring that is pushed forward 2", resulting in better eye relief. This scope mount is designed to fit AR type upper receivers with Mil-Spec 1913...MSRP: $135.00$111.95 -
Aim Sports 30MM QD Cantilever Scope Mount 1.75 Height
Aim Sports Inc.
MSRP: $62.99$44.95Aim Sports 30MM QD Cantilever Scope Mount 1.75 Height Even the best optics cannot perform to their ability without a quality mounting system. Our mounts were designed by experienced shooters to be the perfect link between the optic and the rifle...MSRP: $62.99$44.95 -
Arisaka Defense Offset Optic Mounting Plate - Standard
Arisaka Defense
$25.00Arisaka Defense Offset Optic Mounting Plate - Standard The Arisaka Offset Optic Mount is designed to be attached to the top Picatinny rail of an AR15 rifle. When the rifle is canted to make use of the offset red dot sight, the optic remains...$25.00 -
Arisaka Defense Offset Optic Mounting Plate - Tall
Arisaka Defense
$25.00Arisaka Defense Offset Optic Mounting Plate - Tall The Arisaka Offset Optic Mount is designed to be attached to the top Picatinny rail of an AR15 rifle. When the rifle is canted to make use of the offset red dot sight, the optic remains...$25.00 -
Out of stock
Burris P.E.P.R. Scope Mount - 1"
Burris
MSRP: $112.99$104.95Burris P.E.P.R. Scope Mount - 1" The Burris P.E.P.R. mount has become the absolute go-to mount of choice for an incredibly solid, long-lasting cantilever mount. It makes mounting an optic to an AR-style rifle very easy, providing the necessary clearance...MSRP: $112.99$104.95 -
Out of stock
Burris P.E.P.R. Scope Mount - 30mm
Burris
MSRP: $112.99$104.95Burris P.E.P.R. Scope Mount - 30mm The Burris P.E.P.R. mount has become the absolute go-to mount of choice for an incredibly solid, long-lasting cantilever mount. It makes mounting an optic to an AR-style rifle very easy, providing the necessary...MSRP: $112.99$104.95 -
Out of stock
Forward Controls Design PMA Parallel Red Dot Mount for ACOG's
Forward Controls Design
MSRP: $150.00$142.50Forward Controls Design PMA Parallel Red Dot Mount for ACOG's The Forward Control Design Parallel Red Dot Mount for ACOGs (PMA) adds clearance for red dot mounts to bring your red dot to eye level. This offset Picatinny mount can be added to an upper...MSRP: $150.00$142.50 -
Geissele Super Precision 30mm Extended Scope Mount - Black
Geissele Automatics
$325.00Geissele Super Precision 30mm Extended Scope Mount - Black The AR-15/M4 Super Precision series of scope mounts are optimized for use with an AR-15/M4 upper. The mounting surface spans 7 picatinny sections and utilizes 4 shear lugs. These mounts...$325.00 -
Geissele Super Precision 30mm Extended Scope Mount - DDC
Geissele Automatics
$350.00Geissele Super Precision 30mm Extended Scope Mount - DDC The AR-15/M4 Super Precision series of scope mounts are optimized for use with an AR-15/M4 upper. The mounting surface spans 7 picatinny sections and utilizes 4 shear lugs. These mounts...$350.00 -
On Sale
Geissele Super Precision 30mm Scope Mount - Black
Geissele Automatics
MSRP: $325.00Now: $279.95Was: $325.00Geissele Super Precision 30mm Scope Mount - Black The Super Precision 1.93" Scope Mount was developed specifically for scenarios such as shooting while wearing a gas mask. 1.93" is also an optimal height for the optic to clear most common range...MSRP: $325.00Now: $279.95Was: $325.00 -
Geissele Super Precision 30mm Scope Mount - DDC
Geissele Automatics
$350.00Geissele Super Precision 30mm Scope Mount - DDC The Geissele Automatics Super Precision scope mount are the perfect combination of excellent design and engineering, precision machining, and high-quality materials. The result: Exceptional durability,...$350.00 -
Geissele Super Precision 34mm Extended Scope Mount - Black
Geissele Automatics
$325.00Geissele Super Precision 34mm Extended Scope Mount - Black The AR-15/M4 Super Precision series of scope mounts are optimized for use with an AR-15/M4 upper. The mounting surface spans 7 picatinny sections and utilizes 4 shear lugs. These mounts...$325.00 -
Geissele Super Precision 34mm Extended Scope Mount - DDC
Geissele Automatics
$350.00Geissele Super Precision 34mm Extended Scope Mount - DDC Geissele Automatics was established in 2004 as a manufacturer of trigger mechanisms for the AR-15 rifle. Rely on Geissele when you expect superior performance, quality, and reliability. The...$350.00 -
LaRue Tactical Aimpoint Micro Low QD Mount
LaRue Tactical
$149.99LaRue Tactical Aimpoint Micro Low QD Mount The LaRue Tactical Aimpoint Micro Low QD Mount (LT661) is perfect for mounting your Aimpoint Micro red dot sight. This mount is made from precision-machined aluminum and is designed to fit any Picatinny rail. It...$149.99 -
LaRue Tactical LT120 30mm QD Scope Mount
LaRue Tactical
$299.99LaRue Tactical LT120 30mm QD Scope Mount The LaRue Tactical LT120 30mm QD Scope Mount is the perfect solution for mounting a scope to your rifle. It's designed to provide a rock-solid, repeatable return to zero when remounting your scope. The 30mm mount...$299.99 -
LaRue Tactical LT120 34mm QD Scope Mount
LaRue Tactical
$299.99LaRue Tactical LT120 34mm QD Scope Mount The LaRue Tactical LT120 34mm QD Scope Mount is an essential piece of equipment for any shooter looking to improve accuracy and performance. This lightweight, high-quality mount is designed to provide a secure...$299.99 -
Out of stock
LaRue Tactical LT135 SPR/M4 1.93" 30mm Scope Mount With QD Lever Mount
LaRue Tactical
$299.99LaRue Tactical LT135 SPR/M4 1.93" 30mm Scope Mount With QD Lever Mount The LaRue Tactical LT135 SPR/M4 1.93" 30mm Scope Mount with QD Lever Mount is the perfect choice for your tactical needs. This mount is precision machined from a single block of...$299.99 -
Out of stock
LaRue Tactical LT135 SPR/M4 1.93" 34mm Scope Mount With QD Lever Mount
LaRue Tactical
$299.99LaRue Tactical LT135 SPR/M4 1.93" 34mm Scope Mount With QD Lever Mount The LaRue Tactical LT135 SPR/M4 1.93" 34mm Scope Mount with QD Lever Mount is a high-quality, precision-made scope mount that is designed for accuracy. The mount is machined from...$299.99 -
LaRue Tactical LT204 C.A.N. SPR 1in QD Mount
LaRue Tactical
$299.99LaRue Tactical LT204 C.A.N. SPR 1in QD Mount The LaRue Tactical LT204 C.A.N. SPR 1" QD Mount is the perfect solution for mounting optics or accessories to your rifle. This lightweight and durable mount is designed to fit with any Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny...$299.99