Learning and mastering the skill of hunting takes years of dedication and on-field practice.
Over the course of time, you'll experiment with different guns, landscapes, shooting different targets, and develop your preferences that'll set the tone for future hunting sessions.
However, it doesn't matter what type of a hunter you are as long as you follow some basic guidelines and have the right equipment.
As long as you do that, you'll be on the right path to perfection.
Some of the things you definitely need on this journey are the best scope mounts, including the scope rings and bases.
They make all the difference, and they'll undoubtedly help you improve.
Luckily, there's no need to go around and ask for advice since you can learn everything online.
Stay tuned, and we'll cover some of the most important things you have to know about scope mounts, and we'll review the best ones on the market.
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The primary focus of this review article will be on identifying and reviewing three types of riflescope accessories - mounts, rings, and bases.
If you're in a hurry and don't have the time to read through all of them, here are our picks that you should undoubtedly check out.
Types of Scope Mounts and Accessories: Comparison
Before we go into reviews, we want to dedicate a couple of lines to define these items and contrast them in order to find some differences and similarities that'll benefit you before your future purchase.
So, let's start with scope mounts.
If you're new to this, you're probably a bit confused about what the difference between mounts and rings is, and it's perfectly normal.
Actually, these two are often used together in a sentence because scope mounts come in two designs - one-piece mounts with two rings on top or separate two rings that are connected to the gun via base or rail, such as Picatinny (Pic rail).
Generally, hunters use one-piece designs for two simple reasons - the mounting time is significantly lower, and separate rings are outdated since they don't accommodate each weapon the same due to different designs and structural differences.
The benefit of having separate rings is that the weight that's added to your gun is way lower than what you'll have to carry with a one-piece.
In order to attach the rings to your gun, you'll generally need a scope rail.
It's one of the most important accessories you'll need for stability and securing your scope, so it doesn't budge.
There are different designs when it comes to rails as well, but you'll most often encounter Picatinny, Dovetail, and Weaver rails.
There is no better or worse design; it simply depends on the gun and the scope you're using to decide which rail you'll have to purchase.
Sometimes, they even overlap, and you can use rails for different-structured rings.
The Best Scope Mount - Top 4 Reviews
We'll start with four of the best mounts that are simple to use and require no pre-hand experience to get the hang of.
Here's the customer favorite, the Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring Scope Mount.
The main concern that hunters have before they buy a new scope mount is the weight that can drastically affect their overall aim and shooting efficiency.
The best mounts are usually solid, rigid, and lightweight, which is a clear description of this mount right here.
It's made from 6061-grade aluminum that has excellent durability despite its lightweight properties.
It doesn't matter what rifle you own - as long as you have a Picatinny rail, this mount will fit like a glove.
The design features two separate rings that have a 2-inch forward extension.
Firstly, you'll be able to readjust the scope and the gun way easier with excess space, and secondly, the two inches will improve the eye relief of the scope and make it way easier to use for longer periods of time.
It works with all 1-inch tubings for Picatinny rails, and it even comes with a lifetime warranty, which is certainly a bonus even though it's cheap.
All in all, it's straightforward, easy to set up, and there's no way it'll fail you.
- Aluminum durability
- Lightweight
- Easy to set up
- 2-inch forward extension
- /
A mounting gear doesn't have to include rings necessarily since it can do the job efficiently with a quality riser such as the Monstrum Lockdown Series Picatinny Riser Mount.
The most common practice of stabilizing scopes and optics devices is by connecting them via rings to the rifle and securing them with a rail.
On the other hand, this Monstrum riser achieves the same result with simple height adjustment and a quick-release tension system.
You can secure the riser with a simple thumb motion and set the height in eight different positions just by extending it by 0.3-inch increments.
You won't have to bother much to learn how to do this since you'll be using two locking screws to set the desired position.
It's an easy-to-use device, especially for new hunters that don't want to bother with rings and finding the exact mounting gear that matches their rifle.
The downside is that the riser is not universal, and you'll need to check if your gun and the scope match the slots on it.
On the other hand, it's quite cheap and a fantastic replacement for everyone, not just the beginners, so make sure to keep it in consideration.
- Quick-release system
- Excellent stabilization
- Height adjustment
- Easy to set up
- Not made for every scope
Great stabilization of a firearm is crucial to landing quality shots, especially if you're using a scope.
The most efficient way to keep the gun steady and utilize your scope is by investing in a sling mount, such as the BRAVO COMPANY Rail Mount.
This Bravo product is a quick-detach sling mount, known as a flush cup sling mount, that can be quickly mounted and dismounted with a press of a button.
The swivel is fixed in place with a ball mechanism that is retracted when the user presses the button.
The reason this mount is so popular is that it's perfect for M-Lok rail systems due to superior stabilization.
You'll often see that quick-detach mounts are used with Picatinny rails, which is why we decided to include this one, as it's a rare one.
It's a US product that is sold at a very attractive price, and it's not really necessary to own it if you're a new hunter, but it'll undoubtedly make everything way easier, especially if you carry a heavier rifle with a sling.
The only flaw we could notice was the weight compared to some other extensions you can find on Amazon.
It will take time to learn to shoot with it, but once you do, you'll never purchase a different sling mount again.
- QD mounting system
- The best for M-Lok’s
- Affordable
- Weight
The last item in this segment is the mounting gear for red-dot sights and optics.
Even though we've placed it in this scope department, it still deserves a couple of words due to its great design.
Here's the TRUGLO Universal Red-Dot Sight Mount.
If you've been looking for a new mounting system for red-dots, you've probably had to deal with numerous websites that offer a plethora of products that make your head dizzy.
They're all the same, and you don't even know which one fits your gear.
Well, none of these things should bother you when you take a look at this sight mount.
It utilizes interchangeable base plates that make it fit a ton of optics and models that you potentially own, so there's no need to look for specific products.
It also has slots for mounting additional optics, such as scopes, which is the main reason we decided to place it in this list.
In terms of compatibility with firearms, if you own rifles with Picatinny rails or Weaver mounts, it will most likely fit.
Another nice feature is the ambidextrous design, which makes crosshair placement and general stabilization a lot easier.
The only thing lacking in this package is the 3.5 mm odd size hex key to make it perfect. Other than that, it's as good as advertised.
- Ambidextrous use
- Interchangeable base plates
- Additional space for scopes
- Perfect for Picatinny rail and Weaver rail optics
- No, hex key in the package
The Best Scope Rings - Top 4 Reviews
We'll continue in the same fashion and start with the best scope rings we could find, the Leupold Rifleman Scope Rings.
Leupold is a household name in the world of optics that was founded more than 100 years ago.
They manufacture quality scopes, sights, binoculars, and optic devices to this day, and they never seem to fail in their manufacturing process.
Of course, Leupold designs scope equipment as well, such as scope rings in this case.
They measure three-eighths of an inch and have a gloss finish for extra resistance.
The build is phenomenal, considering they're made from aircraft-grade aluminum that's known for its durability and UV resistance.
This model is see-thru and detachable, but you can also order a variety of different models, such as high and medium detachable rings and vertical split rings.
All in all, they are sturdy, robust, and they are field-tested for stabilization and overall longevity.
Needless to say, they've passed all testing with flying colors.
- Gloss finish
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Excellent stability
- UV resistance
- /
If you've never heard of Vortex optics and the amazing job they do, this is the perfect opportunity.
Here are the Vortex Optics Pro Series Riflescope Rings.
If you're in need of optical devices that are perfect for hunting, wildlife watching, and shooting sports - Vortex is your go-to brand.
They have existed for 40 years, and they're still dominating the market with full steam.
Also, they are a family business, so you can count that they put maximum effort into their designs and functionality.
The rings in question are 1-inch models that can position the scope at 19 mm height, which is 0.75 inches.
They are perfect for mid-range hunting rifles and heavy-recoil rifles since the optics are well balanced and allow for maximum mobility.
Furthermore, the entire mounting system is strengthened with the T-25 screws, which have excellent durability and are rust-free.
Also, this set of rings fits all Weaver rails and Picatinny rails, meaning you'll have the option of switching this mount from one gun to another.
Another vital thing we should mention is that it weighs 1.41 oz., which is vital since you want the least amount of added weight to your hunting rifle.
It could be argued that the price is a bit high, but that's the only flaw we could find. Overall, it's a great purchase.
- Reliable manufacturer
- Lightweight
- Great quality
- T-25 screws
- Price
Not everyone wants premium products, especially if they're looking for a replacement part to make ends meet.
Therefore, here's our budget pick in this segment, the Vortex Optics Hunter Riflescope Rings.
Unlike the previous Vortex rings, these have a higher positioning of 1.22 inches or 31 mm.
It's perfect for precision rifle series matches that require precision and stability on the go.
Naturally, these are both Picatinny and Weaver rings that fit all riflescopes with this kind of setup.
If you're a natural hunter, you obviously want the most durable unit you can find with a solid grip, which is where Vortex comes to the rescue.
These rings are crafted from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy - a strong and robust material that contains magnesium and silicon.
It's known as one of the strongest aluminum alloys, which is perfect for hunting in the wilderness.
Also, we should mention that it fits the AR15, a household US weapon, even if you have a 20 mm Picatinny rail.
These mounting systems are precisely machined, and there's no way they won't fit whatever scope you have, as long as it's Picatinny or Weaver.
We did notice that they tend to loosen up with stronger weapons with heavy recoils, so make sure to tighten them every once in a while.
- 31 mm height
- 6061-T6 aluminum alloy
- Fits most riflescopes
- Loosens at heavy recoils
The last model we have for this segment is ideal for Weaver bases and will fit most scopes that have Weaver design.
So, let's see what the Burris 420084 Zee Rings are all about.
The first thing that immediately attracted us to these Weaver rings was the matte black design that is machined to endure heavy recoil and physical damage with ease.
It's manufactured from heavy-duty steel and weighs only 4.8 oz - not too much to mess with the overall weight, but enough to keep everything steady and rock solid.
Moreover, it has a quick-detach design or QD that enables you to mount and dismount the scope with a twist of a button.
The package comes with one pair of rings for a fair price, and you'll get a good warranty as well.
They are beautifully machined and perfect for heavier weapons, but they're not recommended for lighter models since they'll definitely mess up your aim.
This is a 1-inch package, but you can find Burris rings of all sizes, ranging from low 1-inch models to high black glass rings.
- Heavy-duty steel
- Quick-detach design
- Made for Weaver bases
- Not suitable for lighter weapons
![Vortex Optics Pro Series Riflescope Rings - 1 inch - Low Height [0.75 Inches | 19.05 mm], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31RXqEH17jL.jpg)
The Best Scope Bases - Top 4 Products
As we're entering the base segment, we've decided to divide it into two groups of two products - Picatinny-style bases and Weaver-style bases.
This one is the best Picatinny base we could find, the Liipor Picatinny Base Mount.
Even though we're focusing on scope mounting, this Picatinny-style base has an authentic design that allows you to mount additional optics aside from scopes.
The 45-degree offset is perfect for mounting red-dot sights, flashlights, and even lasers.
Furthermore, the build of this base allows you to place your optics in a way that the kill switch is easy to reach, so you won't lose any precious time during the hunt.
The package comes with four pieces that weigh 1.4 oz each, so the overall weight with the scope won't mess with your aim.
You'll also receive four Allen keys and since you'll need to secure the clamp block in place.
Also, there's no need to worry about longevity since they're made from a solid aluminum alloy.
The best of all is that it costs practically nothing, and it's a great addition to your hunting rifle.
- 45-degree offset
- Lightweight
- It fits all Picatinny mounts and 20-mm Weaver mounts
- Included hex wrenches
- /
If you want a durable base that'll stand the test of time, this is the one to get.
Here's the NightForce 1-Piece Picatinny-Style Mounting Scope Base.
Some scopes are heavier than others since they have a ton of optics hardware.
Not only do they mess up your aim, but they also exert pressure on the gun, which is why you need a good stabilizer to keep everything in place.
In this case, we have a precision CNC-machined base made from aluminum that's hard anodized and has excellent scratch resistance.
If you have a heavy-recoil gun, this base will make sure that the rifle sight or scope stays in place, no matter the strength of the shot.
Moreover, it has a one-piece design with multiple slots that allows mounting other optics aside from the scopes.
If you're a fan of thermal imagery or red-dot sights, this base will do the trick thanks to its deep slots.
It is way pricier than the previous Picatinny rail, but it's undoubtedly worth it.
In terms of quality, they're in the same range, so the price is the only major difference.
- Aluminum build
- Hard anodized and scratch-resistant
- Deep slots
- Expensive
If you need a simple solution for carrying your scope and you don't want to hassle and use expensive bases, here's a product that'll fix your problems.
It's the Burris Optics Weaver Base Adapter review.
Again, we have a product from another verified optics manufacturer, Burris Optics.
They manufacture everything from monoculars and binoculars to high-end shooting scopes and sights.
In this case, their focus was on creating optics mounts and adapters for Ruger rifles that take a couple of seconds to mount.
This Weaver adapter is made to be used with Zee rings for Ruger rifles exclusively.
The way you'll do it is by attaching it directly to the receiver and thus transforming it into a Weaver-style base as a proprietary system for Ruger rifles.
It doesn't cost a lot, and it has great durability, so it's perfect for hunting in nature.
Also, it is possible to mount Picatinny-style rings on these rails, but it's not recommended.
The only issue is that you'll need custom rings for Burris scopes, so you'll have to get that as well if you don't own them.
- Verified manufacturer
- Converts to a Weaver-base rail
- Great cost
- Exclusive for Burris Optics rings
Finally, we're down to the last product in this segment and the entire article.
So, without further ado, here's the Leupold Weaver-style Two-Piece Scope Base.
If you have quick-release rings and you're in need of a perfect Weaver-style base, this is the one you should get.
It's a two-piece scope base that is compatible with all the popular scopes and rifle manufacturers, such as Winchester, Browning, Remington, and many others.
It features a lever mechanism that secures the base to the ring, has forward scope positioning and backward; plus, you can lock it into a fixed position, and it won't budge.
Thanks to the quick-release mechanism, you can mount and dismount it instantly and make scope setting incredibly easy.
It comes in two colors, matte and gloss, and it's tightly secured with standard base screws.
We thought about placing it higher up, but it stays here since it only accommodates certain riflescope models that you can check out in the base description.
Other than that, our observations are that it's solid, rigid, and a great addition to your mounting system.
- It fits a lot of ring mounts
- Two-piece
- A quick-release design with a lever mechanism
- Fits specific models
Mounts, Bases, and Rings: What Are the Best Ones and How to Find Them?
We've gone over the best mounting gear and gave you some info about them.
However, this was our research, but maybe you don't like these products and want to find the one that suits you the best.
So, what exactly do you look for?
We'll dedicate the next couple of paragraphs to giving you some useful info about mounting systems and some main features that you should know about.
Stay tuned!
1. Compatibility
The first thing you should always look at is compatibility.
It doesn't matter if we're talking about scopes, rings, bases, or mounts - finding the perfect fit for your weapon is the number one priority.
As we mentioned previously, there are two main types of scope mounts - one-piece mounting gear and scope rings.
The one you'll choose is a personal preference, but there are some factors that could potentially shift your decision from one side to another.
For example, one-piece mounts are the most popular designs nowadays because they're the perfect addition for tactical rifles that are often used by the military or experienced hunters.
They make the job a lot easier, especially if you have high-end scopes that require absolute stability for precise shots.
On the other hand, one-piece mounts are generally bulkier and more robust than scope rings, so they'll often get in the way if you plant them on automatic rifles or bolt-action rifles.
Scope rings are very practical in the sense that they are easier to mount and offer a simple solution for new hunters.
2. Durability
Durability is something that we're always searching for, no matter the product.
In this case, you might think that you don't need a very strong mount since the main pressure is on the gun, but you'd be wrong.
Heavy-recoil guns can make quite an impact on the scope and the mount, including the rings and the bases.
Therefore, always look at products that have quality alloys and steel materials in their constitution.
You'll notice that there are a lot of scope mounts that have aluminum alloys, and they're often the best picks.
Aluminum alloys with magnesium and/or steel have excellent longevity, and they're excellent in overall preservation due to their anti-corrosive properties.
3. Brand
Even though our parents have always told us not to look at the brand of a product but the quality, there are cases when the brand is enough to know you're looking at something good.
When it comes to the optics industry, there are manufacturers that have been around for decades, even centuries, and they're known for manufacturing excellent optics such as binoculars, scopes, red-dot sights, and so on.
For example, Vortex Optics, Burris Optics, and ATN are one of the most reliable companies that we know of.
None of their products has ever disappointed us, and their quality is pretty much unmatched by other competitors.
We didn't include any ATN product in this article, but you had a piece of Burris and Vortex and the incredible job that they did with this mounting gear.
4. Weight
Also, don't forget that the weight of the mounting system is a huge concern.
Having those extra points can highly affect your overall aim and precision, especially if you've used your gun for a long time and you've decided to purchase a new scope with a new mounting system.
In general, adding a few pounds shouldn't be that big of a deal, but it's something to keep in mind if your new scope is a bulky model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best scope rings and bases?
As we said, there are many manufacturers that you can put your trust in.
Vortex Optics seems to manufacture quality detachable rings that are suitable for a lot of weapons and scopes on the market, but Burris Optics and ATN are also a great pick for everyone, regardless of whether you're an experienced shooter or a newbie.
What are the different types of scope mounts?
The basic division is between one-piece mounts and scope rings with detachable bases.
Also, the bases can have one-piece designs as well, but you'll generally find two-piece designs.
One-piece mounts are the standard today, but detachable scope rings are the older pick and certainly a solid one.
What size scope mounts do I need?
There's a simple method of finding out the exact dimensions of the scope mount you'll need.
You'll have to measure the widest part of your scope ring and the space from the bottom of the ring to the middle part.
Once you know the exact dimension, you should select a ring that's a bit over half of the measurement from the widest point.
What rings do I need for my scope?
It almost always depends on the model of the scope, so you should count in its dimensions, weight, and the type of rifle you have.
How much should I spend on a scope ring?
Scope rings aren't expensive, so you can go for pricier models if you're worried about overall durability. In general, the prices vary between $20 and $70.
Are scope bases universal?
Some are, but that's not always the case.
There are models that fit Picatinny, Weaver, and Dovetail-style mounts, but you should always check the info before you make the purchase.
Final Thoughts - Summary
We've made it to the end, and it's time to dedicate a couple of words to the best scope mounting parts on this list.
One of the best scope mounts you can find is definitely the Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring Scope Mount.
It's a standard two-ring model that has absolute stability, and there's no way it'll mess with your aim.
When it comes to bases and rings, the ones we recommend are Leupold Rifleman Scope Rings and Liipor Picatinny Base Mount.
They are affordable, have great quality, and they work well as a replacement for a kit you already have.