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Best Shotgun Scopes on the Market in 2021

Last updated on March 17, 2021 By JF Martin

best shotgun scopes 2020

Hunters Wiki may receive some form of compensation from the links on this page, at no extra charge to you. Learn more.

Shotguns are one of the most commonly used firearms, especially during hunting season. They are used to fire both shots and slugs while keeping the gun at the shoulder. Shotguns are mostly used for smaller target, moving fast. They have low penetration and can only shoot at targets within a small range but on the other hand, have great stopping power. Adding a best shotgun scope will definitely be beneficial for many reasons. It helps improve the accuracy of the shot, even if the target is medium-range. Furthermore, the magnification of the scope gives the hunter a clearer view of the oft-moving target, making it easy to take it down.

As, shotguns are usually used to shoot birds. However, they can also be used for hunting larger game, like deer or turkey hunting due to their versatility of shooting larger projectiles such as slugs.

7 Best Shotgun Scopes to Buy

Even though using a scope with a shotgun is not a necessity and in most cases, one can do without it, it is still worthwhile to look at some of the best shotgun scopes. This article helps you decide which scope is best for your shotgun and will befit you most for hunting season by listing top 7 picks of the year. From fixed shotgun scopes to variable shotgun scopes.

1-Simmons 517793 Prodiamond – Best Shotgun Scope

Simmons 517793 Prodiamond Shotgun Prohunter Riflescope...
Simmons 517793 Prodiamond Shotgun Prohunter Riflescope...
  • Multi-coated optics and high-quality optical glass provide...
  • Exclusive truezero windage and elevation adjustment system...
  • Raised tab on power change ring provides an easier grip and...
  • Shotgun riflescope with 4x magnification and 32mm objective...
Click Here to View on Amazon

The Simmons Prodiamond Riflescope is one of the popular shotgun scopes for beginners and has some outstanding qualities.

Design:

The Simmons scope has finger adjustable turrets with a sleek design. It weighs about 8.6 ounces which is pretty lightweight for scopes in general and comes in the colour matte black.  It has an 8mm exit pupil with 4 inches of eye relief and a 32mm objective lens. All lenses are made with the finest quality glass and are mutli-coated for a clearer image. Its field of view is 23.6 feet @ 100 yards with an adjustment range of 70 inches @ 100 yards. It comes with a 4x magnification.

Features:

The scope provides truezero windage with elevation adjustment so the scope stays locked in even at hard recoil. It also comes with the coveted Quick Target Acquisition (QTA) feature and is water/fog proof. The recticle is the classic Prodiamond recticle that many customers favour.

Performance:

Overall, Simmons Prodiamond Shotgun has great performance. It is easy to handle for beginners and a positively surprising found for seasoned hunters. Its lightweight construction is a favorite among most buyers.

Pros/Cons:

The 4-inch recoil takes it home for the Simmons Prodiamond. Other than that, it’s excellent for shooting at 75-100 yards and performs well in low-lighting Other than that, its lightweight.

For some customers, however, the scope could not handle hard recoil. It failed to accomplish 30 rounds of 3030s, for example and also had a less clear image than other scopes. These cases, however, are usually exceptions and the customers are sent a replacement or are fully refunded in such a case.

Verdict:

If you’re a beginner, this is a great scope to get for your shotgun due to its various ease-giving features. Also recommended for seasoned shotgun hunters.

2-Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x25mm, Black

Sale
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope,...
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope,...
  • Matte black featuring a 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness...
  • Waterproof construction: O ring sealed optics stay dry...
  • Shockproof construction: Built to withstand bumps, bangs,...
  • Nitrogen purged fog proofing: Nitrogen inside the scope...
Click Here to View on Amazon

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a calling for the hunter looking for a variable shotgun scope. It works well with a wide range of firearms and delivers its best with each.

Design:

Standing at just 2.4 inches with a weight of 3.7 ounces approximately, Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a low profile, small scope perfect for small range target acquisition. It comes in black with a matte finish. It provides unlimited eye relief and field of view with a 70 in @ 100 yards adjustment range. The minimalistic design makes it undetectable unlike some other scopes. The lenses are multi-coated and made with high quality glass. The design is parallax free.

Features:

The scope comes with a 3 MOA red dot reticle which helps in quick target acquisition and is responsible for the unlimited eye relief. It is constructed with Amber-Bright optics and is water proof, shock proof and fog proof. It features a dry-nitrogen-filled housing, and a CR2032 battery which can be changed.

Performance:

The scope is great to be used in low-light conditions. The red-dot frees the hunter from worrying about eye relief. The red dot however, needs to be adjusted according to the lighting or else it’ll be blurry. It does not consume a lot of power and can hold zero.

Pros/Cons:

Most customers found the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 to be a great optic for the medium range price it demanded. It also holds zero and can withstand hard recoil.

The only major concern with the Bushnell is that the new version with white lettering has a red dot which blurs from the sides of the field of view.  It also shifts from the centre for certain movements. For some users, the scope was too low-profile and they needed to purchase an extra riser with the set to be able to adjust the scope to their level.

Verdict:

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is certainly one of the newest generations of scopes that provide durability, accuracy and clarity.  It is also a variable shotgun scope so its use isn’t restricted to your shotgun only. For its price point, it provides excellent specs, which is as good as it gets. Great for training and target shooting.

SEE ALSO: 4 Points to Consider When Buying a Rifle Scope

3-TRUGLO 4x32mm Compact Rimfire and Shotgun Scope Series

TRUGLO 4x32mm Compact Rimfire and Shotgun Scope Series,...
TRUGLO 4x32mm Compact Rimfire and Shotgun Scope Series,...
  • Fully-coated lenses provide maximum brightness, clarity, and...
  • Rubber eye guard; Durable, scratch-resistant, non-reflective...
  • Duplex reticle model includes 3/8" scope mounting rings...
  • Diamond reticle models include weaver-style scope mounting...
Click Here to View on Amazon

TRUGLO is a renowned name in the firearms optics industry. Their Compact Rimfire and Shotgun Series has two outstanding scopes. The price point is a bit startling and might make the purchaser doubtful but the scope packs in heaps of amazing features.

Design:

TRUGLO Compact Rimfire comes in 2 models; the 8504BR includes 3/8″ rings for rimfire and air rifles, while the TG8504BD/CD includes weaver-style rings. It comes in “black” and “realtree Xtra”, the latter of which is a camouflage style scope. The scope lens has a rubber guard and pre-installed rimfire rings. With a 4-inch eye relief and 32 mm objective lens, TRUGLO’s Compact Rimfire is a standard scope for shotguns. Furthermore, the lens is fully coated providing great clarity. It is made from aircraft quality aluminum and has a diamond as well as a duplex reticle.

Features:

It has finger-tip elevation adjustment and can hold zero on hard recoil. It features durable leaf spring for windage and elevation adjustments. Its water proof, shock proof and fog proof.

Performance:

The scope is perfect for hunting bigger ground game such as deer or turkey. It gathers enough light to hunt in low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk.

Pros/Cons:

For its price, TRUGLO Rimfire is an excellent optic. The crosshairs on the reticle are nice and sharp and the scope stays zeroed in even after hard recoil. Customers found it easy to install and adjust.

To others, however, the quality of the glass was sub-par and the tightening design seemed a bit defective.

Verdict:

If you’re looking to spend some money on an inexpensive shotgun scope for turkey hunting season than the TRUGLO Rimfire might just be it.

An answer to a commonly asked question: What Scope Do I Need for 300 Yards?

4-Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sights

Vortex Optics Viper Red Dot Sight - 6 MOA Dot
Vortex Optics Viper Red Dot Sight - 6 MOA Dot
  • The Viper Red Dot Sight has a super low-profile making it...
  • The Viper's low height allows it to co-witness with iron...
  • The fully multi-coated, ultra-clear lens offers a wide,...
  • Hard anodized finish- highly durable low-glare matte finish....
Click Here to View on Amazon

Another low profile scope like the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25, Vortex’s Venom Red Dot sights are a standard, high-performance scopes. They come with two different red dots, 3 MOA and 6 MOA.

Design:

The optic has a length of about 1.9 inches and weighs 1.1 ounces. It has 1 MOA windage and elevation adjustments. The red dots are sleek and visible. It has an auto-brightness mode through which the red dot intensity automatically changes according to lighting conditions. There are 10 brightness levels to manually choose the power and dot intensity from. This can be done by using the controls on the left side of the scope. It also houses a CR1632 battery. The lens glass is high-quality and lenses are fully multi-coated, providing the ultimate clarity of image. It has adjustable elevation and windage dials with 1 MOA clicks. It has unlimited eye relief.

Features:

The scope comes with a Picatinny mount. It allows up to 150 hours of use at highest setting and up to 30,000 hours on lower settings. It is considered parallax free and has edge-to-edge resolution with is wide-field lens. It’s compact and lightweight. Its shock and water proof and comes with mounting screws.

Performance:

The scope has a crisp red dot and works great for shooting game with its 1x magnification. It can be used with a wide range of firearms such as rifles, handguns, shot guns, glocks etc.

Also check out the red dot sights for turkey hunting!

Pros/Cons:

The Vortex Venom is highly accurate and withstands hard recoil easily. Even though, it’s an expensive shotgun scope, the product is worth the investment.

However, some customers complained about the quality of the battery cover and a consequent need for replacement. Due to the low –profile some hunters may require a riser.

Verdict:

Vortex is one of the best companies out there for firearm optics. After the suspension of the Viper Red Dot, the new Venom is perfect for short-range hunting expeditions.

Find out How Far Should a Scope be From Your Eye while using it!

5-CVLIFE 1X22X33 – Shotgun Scope with Reflex Sight

Sale
CVLIFE 1X22X33 Red Green Dot Gun Sight Riflescope...
CVLIFE 1X22X33 Red Green Dot Gun Sight Riflescope...
  • Tubeless design with 33mm reflex lens aperture provides a...
  • Dual illuminated ( red and green);4 reticle shapes in one...
  • Parallax corrected & unlimited eye-relief, improving the...
  • The red dot sight is precision machined from high grade...
Click Here to View on Amazon

CVLIFE is a new company that’s known for its low-priced shooting accessories. Their product is cheaper than other shotgun scopes, but some user reviews show build quality issue.

Design:

It has a minimalistic design and comes in black. It’s made of aluminum alloy with anodized finish and weighs 130 g. The overall length is 82 mm while the screen size is 22 mm x 33 mm. The scope fits 20 mm Picatinny and Weaver rail mounts. It also has a 0.15 inch metal lock bar that works only on Picatinny and Weaver rails.

Features:

It has 4 options for reticles (Circle Dot, Cross, 10 MOA & 3 MOA) that can be quickly selected by the help of a knob. These options in turn have 2 colours: red and green. There is 5 level illumination control. There are Allen adjustment screws for windage and elevation. An Allen wrench and battery come out of the box.

Performance:

The CVLIFE reflex sight is an inexpensive scope that works well for its price, but doesn’t come to par with the scopes that come in the higher price range. Customer reviews show that holding zero would be an issue for this scope because of its build quality.

Pros/Cons:

It’s an inexpensive option with normal quality. Build quality is the biggest con for this scope. Another issue is that it would only fit Picatinny and Weaver rails; doesn’t work with any other rail. Some people have used it and said it’s good enough for a pistol only, and any firearm with more recoil than a pistol would end up making it lose zero.

Verdict:

Inexpensive option for a scope, but cheap build quality spoils its potential.

6-Vortex Optics Crossfire – 2 MOA Shotgun Scope

Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II - 2 MOA...
Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II - 2 MOA...
  • The updated Crossfire is a no-nonsense sight for near any...
  • With up to a 50, 000 hour battery life and night-vision...
  • The 2 MOA dot is quick to acquire in close-quarters, while...
  • Increased light transmission with multiple anti-reflective...
Click Here to View on Amazon

Vortex Optics is a name we can always trust for gen accessories. Their Crossfire Red Dot is no exception. It has a 2 MOA dot, precise for targets that are at a distance.

Design:

It has a standard tube design. The scope comes in black with orange or blue options. It is made from hard anodized finish and weighs 147 g. the overall length is 2.5 inches. Skeletonized mount offers two height options (Low and Lower 1/3 Co-Witness). There are 11 level brightness adjustment on right side. Windage and elevation adjustments are in the form of knobs.

Features:

The build quality of the Vortex Crossfire is its biggest feature. 11 levels of brightness help adjust brightness according to need. The 2 MOA dot gives top tier precision. The scope is parallax free. It also has unlimited eye relief. It comes with T10 Torx wrench, battery and lens covers in the box.

Performance:

Known for its quality, Vortex has made quite a well-received scope. The two height adjustments allow it to be mounted to any AR-15, shotgun, or pistol, making it a nice accessory if you have different firearms. It holds zero even after quite some rounds. The only issue observed by users is in the brightness levels.

Pros/Cons:

Quality is loved by customers – Vortex lives up to its name. It’s a good option for the price. It has adjustable knobs for windage and elevation. Holds zero easily after quite a number of rounds.

Brightness adjusting knob, which also holds the battery, could be better.

Verdict:

A worthy inclusion in scope rankings with its build quality, 2 MOA dot, precision, and option to mount on different types of firearms. Fits its price by giving many features.

7-Ozark Armament Rhino – Shotgun Scope with Red Dot Sight

OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Red Dot Sight for Rifle - Shotgun...
OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Red Dot Sight for Rifle - Shotgun...
  • CO-WITNESS CAPABILITY OUT OF THE BOX: Designed to co-witness...
  • REFLEX LENS aperture provides a wide field of view, suitable...
  • DUAL ILLUMINATED (red and green) red dit sight provides...
  • PARALLAX CORRECTED & unlimited eye-relief, improving the...
Click Here to View on Amazon

The Ozark Armament Rhino is one of those scopes that seem too good to be true due to the price their being offered for. Moreover, it comes with a Picatinny mount in the box.

Design:

The scope body has a telescopic design with two lens covers on either side to prevent the lens from getting dusty or injured. It weighs about 9.7 ounces. It’s made from aluminum and comes in the colour black. The scope offers a reticle with 4 MOA Red/Green dot and has 5 brightness levels that the user can adjust the dot to. It has no magnification and an objective lens of 28mm. Moreover it houses a CR2032 battery. It has an easy windage and elevation adjustment.

Features:

The Rhino is made to withstand harsh treatment. The company offers a no questions asked life time warranty. It maintains zero through countless rounds and fits more than one firearm moreover, it offers co-witnesses with all Ozark Armament iron sights and standard iron sights. It is waterproof and fog-proof.

Performance:

The Rhino has top-notch performance. Its varying brightness levels enable the user to hunt with it in a wide range of lighting conditions. It has unlimited eye relief which is always a good thing. Moreover, the scope provides a wide field of view and parallax free glass.

Pros/Cons:

The price point is big advantage to Rhino users. The scope itself packs a punch and delivers well.

Some customers have had problems with sighting it in on zero and others have found that their red dots are not accurate. However, the pros outweigh the cons by sheer number.

Verdict:

An excellent choice for hunting and training. If you’re a beginner and don’t wanna invest too much, this is a great scope for you.

Buying Guide – Points to Consider

Editor’s Choice

Whether you’re looking for a new scope for your shotgun or following up on a popular shotgun scope, you’ve heard much about, the list above will help you make an informed decision about which scope is best for your shotgun.

We recommend both the Simmons 517793 Prodiamond Shotgun Prohunter Riflescope and the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope for their versatility, durability and attractive price point.

There are numbers written on a scope usually, learn what do these numbers mean?

What to Consider When Buying the Best Shotgun Scope?

You must consider these points if you are planning to buy a shotgun scope.

1-Type of Scope

There are different scopes specialized for firearms such as rifle scope for a rifle and shotgun scopes for a shotgun

It is very common to know that rifle scope can not be mounted on a shotgun because it’ll not work. Some scopes however are variable and can be adjusted on a range of different firearms.

It is important to keep in mind the gun and activity you intend to undertake. It’s the only thing that will determine the features you look for while buying new scope. One way of doing this is by checking out the recommended scopes for your gun

2-Construction

Shotgun scopes are usually stronger than say, rifle scopes. This is due to the fact that the recoil of a shotgun (the springing back action) is greater and more intense than that of a rifle. This is also why it is not advisable to use a rifle-scope on your shotgun. They just aren’t cut out to handle that sort of force.

Make sure that you’re not buying a weak optic for a shotgun. The damage may not be noticeable immediately but the recoil of the shotgun will damage the scope from the inside if it’s not durable and it will not serve you for a long time.

3-Len’s Diameter

The two lenses present on a scope are the ocular lens (closest to your eye) and the objective lens (farthest from eye, closest to the target). Different scopes have different lens diameters depending upon certain factors such as lighting conditions, distance of target from the scope and required field of view.

For shotguns, there’s no need to buy scopes that provide a long-range clear image or a large field of view because they’re mostly used to target small game at less than 100 yards. In this case the objective lens, which is responsible for gathering light and providing a clear image, should be around 32mm~40mm in diameter.

4-Durability

Durability is one of the most crucial features in a shotgun. As previously discussed, shotguns have an intense recoil force and can damage a poor quality scope.

The best way to ensure that you’re buying a durable, reliable shotgun scope is to buy from a renowned company. Don’t go for cheap optics as they will most definitely have cheap construction. Furthermore, some scopes are made for specific guns such as a 20 gauge shotgun scope will be slightly different from a 10 gauge shotgun scope. Look up recommend scopes for your shotgun to make sure you avoid getting the wrong scope.

5-Eye Relief

Eye relief refers to the least distance between the ocular lens of the scope and your eye which allows you to obtain a clear view of your target. For shotguns, a greater eye relief is recommended for a few reasons.

Shotguns are available is a number of different gauges such as ten gauge, twelve gauge and twenty gauge. These have varying degrees of recoil and a short eye relief can lead to a case of a scope bite (eye injury)

At least, a 3.5-4 inch eye relief is optimal in most cases of shooting slug loads more other even more intense. It gives the shooter just enough room to escape the recoil force of the shotgun while getting a clear view.

Filed Under: Gun Scopes Tagged With: 7 Best Shotgun Scopes, Best Shotgun Scopes, Mount Scopes, Scopes

7 Best AR Scope Mounts to Buy in 2021 (Honest Buying Guide)

Last updated on March 17, 2021 By JF Martin

best ar scope mounts 2019

Hunters Wiki may receive some form of compensation from the links on this page, at no extra charge to you. Learn more.

AR scopes are considered essential for better shooting and overall user experience with rifles. Not quite popular a few years ago, AR scopes got their fame by the fact that they help improve basic shooting variables. So what are scopes and what do they do?

A scope is a short form of “telescopic sight” – which as the name implies, magnifies and clarifies the target for better shots. They help increase accuracy and range mainly. To keep it simple, let’s just call it the cream to your coffee (if you’re a fan of it).

Say you decide to get an AR scope for your rifle but a quick search confuses you as to what the best rifle scope mount would be. The mount you use is critical, as it is the link between your rifle and your scope. But don’t worry, we got you covered.

7 Best AR Scope Mounts to Buy

This article will help you choose the Best Scope Mounts for AR 15, keeping in mind the two main types of rifle scope mounts, One-Piece and Two-Piece, so that you can enjoy better shooting next time you use your rifle with a scope.

1- Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever Mounts – The Best AR Scope Mounts

Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever 30mm Mount - 2-Inch...
Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever 30mm Mount - 2-Inch...
  • Use this cantilever mount for mounting 30 mm telescopic...
  • The 2-inch offset of this cantilever mount positions the...
  • The cantilever ring mount positions the center of the...
  • Aluminum construction
Click Here to View on Amazon

The Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever Mounts come in two options: 30 mm mount with 2-inch offset, and the 1-inch mount with 2 inches offset. It can be used to mount scopes on flattop rifle styles.

Design

The Vortex has a minimalistic design and comes in black. It’s made of aluminum and weighs 6.75 ounces. Overall length is 5.89 inches (149.81 mm). It positions the center of the scope tube at a height of 1.59 inches (40.39 mm) from the base. Distance between the rings is 2.52 inches (64 mm). It’s a fixed scope mount with Torx screws.

Features

The mount is easy to install; one can be up and running in a few hours. Versatile, as it allows for installation with many different ARs and scopes, which makes it easy to change in case you have more equipment to use it on.

Performance

Essentially known for its performance, the Vortex mount is quite robust and sturdy. Fits well on the base and delivers maximum efficiency. Customer reviews show that the screws don’t lose their place and hold zero after hundreds of rounds and/or long periods of time. It is also known for its durability.

Pros
  • Inexpensive option with great quality
  • Easy installation
  • Reliability, versatility and efficient ergonomics are the few key traits of the mount.
Cons
  •  Some customers argue that the lack of being a quick detach is its biggest flaw. Other than that, it’s a great product.

Verdict

All in all the best option for an inexpensive AR scope mount, especially for flattop rifle styles.

Do you prefer Red Dot Scopes? Read The 10 Best Red Dots

2- Burris P.E.P.R. 1-Inch Mount – Quick Detach Mount for AR with Picatinny Tops

Sale
Burris Optics 410343 P.E.P.R. Riflescope Mount, Ideal...
Burris Optics 410343 P.E.P.R. Riflescope Mount, Ideal...
  • Material Type: Aluminum
  • Sport Type: Hunting
  • Product Possess High Durability
  • Made Of High Quality Materials
Click Here to View on Amazon

Another one of the most well-known scope mounts is from Burris. The AR-P.E.P.R. mount is one of the best scope mounts for ARs. The basic template for it is simple with a lot of variety for customization in rings and bases trimmed to the customer’s needs. It can mount on both Weaver and Picatinny styles. The 410344 model is a 1-inch quick detach mount with Picatinny ring tops.

Design

Modern design. The mount comes in matte black and is made from aluminum and weighs 8.3 ounces. The distance of the start of one ring to the end of the second is 4.15 inches (105.41 mm) and the distance between rings is 2.15 inches (54.61 mm).

Features

The Burris AR-P.E.P.R. mounts are known to be a solution for all rings and bases. The mount has a 2 inch forward positioning for the scope, which leads to proper eye relief and shooting. The customization allows for various changes in accordance to needs such as sporting, hunting, tactical, etc. The quick detach option not only helps achieve quick mounting on other rifles while holding zero on every switch, but also helps switch between short and long range configurations.

Performance

The AR-P.E.P.R. mount is known for heavy duty performance. The product is long lasting and delivers great performance. It was made keeping in mind the potential mounting switches. It is also used by duty officers, which shows the efficiency and ability of the mount.

Pros
  • This mount is considered the best 30 mm scope mount for ARs.
  • It offers customization with heavy-duty performance, making it an ideal choice for any type of shooter.
Cons
  • The main issue for the Burris AR-P.E.P.R. mounts is the price, which starts low but increases with every add-on, making it pricey for most consumers.
  • Secondly, the mounts are heavier than the competition.

Verdict

If you can afford the price, this is the best available for option an AR.

Don’t know how to mount a scope? Here’s your guide!

3- Hammers One Piece Offset QD Scope Mount

Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount with Quick...
Flat Top Offset One Piece QD Scope Mount with Quick...
  • Install in seconds with finger adjustable quick release cam...
  • Offset design for better eye relief position
  • Works with both 30mm and 1inch main tube rifle scopes
  • Machined from aircraft grade aluminum alloy
Click Here to View on Amazon

Hammers is an optic company that has a wide range of different optic products. One of them is their One Piece Offset QD Scope Mount. It is one of the AR mounts that is one the lighter side of price while providing great quality.

Design

It has a simple design and comes in matte black. Its made from extruded aluminum alloy and weighs 8 ounces. Overall length is 5.30 inches (134.62 mm). Distance between rings is 2.52 inches (64 mm). It’s a quick detach with cam locks for Picatinny rails.

Features

The scope is very basic in its function. The cam locks are quick release, making it easy to adjust on the go. The offset ring helps mount different scopes allowing proper eye relief. It comes with an extra rail for accessory attachment.

Performance

Although this is a very basic one piece mount, it is durable and robust to use. The quick release helps hold zero and makes it a switchable mount piece for ARs.

Pros
  • The Hammers mount is a very simple and basic mount that helps fulfill its purpose. The extra rail that comes out of the box is a nice bonus for a mount in such a price.
Cons
  • The only con is the lack of customization for the mount.

Verdict

Simple, effective and does its job without any extra traits, a nice budget scope mount for many.

4- American Defense AD-RECON STD Riflescope Optic Mount

American Defense AD-RECON 30 STD Riflescope Optic...
American Defense AD-RECON 30 STD Riflescope Optic...
  • Does not require proprietary tools for adjustment
  • Can be adjusted with your finger or a flat blade screwdriver
  • Lever can be configured to lock to the front or the rear
  • Superior clamping surface to insure maximum rail engagement
Click Here to View on Amazon

A product of American Defense MFG., the AD-RECON mount is a worthy inclusion on this list. American Defense MFG. offers various options in its catalogue to help you get the option that best suits you.

Design

It has a modern, stylish design. Comes in various colours; something that could be of importance to some users with custom gun skins. It’s made from aluminum with an anodized finish and weighs 8.4 ounces. The 30 mm option has different models, but dimensions of all are almost the same. It can be used both with and without a riser, depending on what you require.

Features

It features the Patented QD Auto Lock™ and with its straight forward mechanism it allows the user to adjust the scope without the need to use proprietary tools; they can simply fit the scope using a flat blade screwdriver or even with a finger. The scope mount fastens firmly to the rail ensuring optimal engagement with the firearm and on top of that the lever locks to the front or the rear according to the user’s needs.  The length of the cantilever provides a comfortable exit pupil and good eye relief to prevent the user from getting a scope bite.

Performance

The AD-RECON mounts are known for being a tactical-oriented mount option, making it a worthy scope mount for flattop AR 15 scopes. It’s known to have superior clamping power to help hold zero and switch between different scopes with ease due to the Patented QD Auto Lock™ lever system.

Pros
  • One of the most commendable qualities of the American Defense AD-RECON is that the scope rings on the structure can be taken out completely with a screw and be placed again with the scope in place: an easy to install mount that has great clamping power. Another good thing is the lifetime warranty that American Defense offers making it quite a durable scope mount option.
Cons
  • Very expensive for the features it offers.

Verdict

A mount that offers the best clamping power but at a hefty price. The lifetime warranty is sure to put some users at ease even for such a price tag.

TIP! What do Numbers Mean on a Rifle Scope?

5- Nikon P-SERIES Riflescope Mounts

Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9x40 Matte BDC600
Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9x40 Matte BDC600
  • The BDC 600 reticle offers Shooters unique open circle...
  • One inch body tube
  • Spring loaded instant zero resets turrets
  • Elevated windage and elevation turrets
Click Here to View on Amazon

Most famously known for their digital cameras for years, Nikon is a name we can easily trust in the optic business. It’s one of the companies that is evolving and adapting to the changing times. For riflescope mounts, the P-SERIES has 4 mount options, where our reviewed product is the P-TACTICAL mount for 1-inch tubes.

Design

It’s a 2 piece design that comes in black or “dark earth” colours. It has a lightweight aluminum construction and weighs 6.1 ounces.

Features

The reversible 2-piece design provides extreme mounting flexibility. It allows proper mounting height and proper fore-aft positioning for proper shooting technique with comfortable eye relief. It is also reversible for ultra-compact scopes. It fits all flattop Picatinny rails

Performance

The 2-piece design helps in versatility for different scopes. The scope holds zero even with the two pieces. They’re precise and strong even with the lightweight which makes it a tough competitor for other one-piece mounts.

Pros
  • 2-piece design that is reversible and gives many switching options while working as other scope mounts. It’s lightweight and low in price.
Cons
  • Some people prefer one-piece mounts for sturdy shooting.

Verdict

A nice customizable option that has its specific users. However, search engine autocompletes show fitting issues on some ARs.

6- UTG 1″/2PCs Med Pro LE Grade Picatinny QD Rings: 22mm Wide

Sale
UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot,...
UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot,...
  • 30-millimeter SWAT 3-12X44 IE tactical range estimating...
  • 30-Millimeter tube built on True Strength Platform: sealed...
  • Best in class multi emerald coated lenses; integrated angled...
  • Special circuit and housing design for uninterrupted...
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The Sister company of the decades-old Leapers company, UTG has a very wide variety in mount sizes. Our product is a 1-inch option. Another 2-piece on our list, the mount is made specifically for Picatinny rails.

Design

Good looking design. Black matte finish colour. It is made from aluminum alloy with anodized finish and weighs 6.4 ounces. 15 mm saddle height and 22 mm ring width.

Features

Robust and user-friendly ergonomic quick detach lever locks. This allows mounting on all Picatinny rails. It has only 4 screws for mounting, which make it very easy to use. It fits up to 55 mm objective diameter scopes.

Performance

The 2-piece design delivers great performance. It keeps zero even while being so lightweight. This is due to the strong, durable construction of the mount. Tested in extreme conditions and approved by field experts and law enforcement personnel; a good 2-piece option even for tactical purposes.

Pros
  • Price is great, making it the best budget scope mount in 2-piece designs.
Cons
  • Medium profile of the mount might be limiting for some. Lacks customization in the same model; meaning that if you want more options, you’ll have to buy new rings.

Verdict

Best 2-piece design that is simple, straightforward and gives maximum performance.

SEE ALSO: What Scope Do I Need for 300 Yards? 

Editor’s Suggestion

There are a number of best ar scope mounts out there that fit all types of users, their needs and their budget. Out of all the types of rifle scope mounts we’ve reviewed in this article, the top two are the most recommended. Both the Vortex Optics Sport Cantilever 30mm Mount and the Burris 410341 AR PEPR 30-mm Scope Mount are high-performing, premium quality scope mounts and come with great customizability.

Before you buy your new ar scope mount, make a note of what your rifle requires specifically. Here’s a guide on what to consider while buying a rifle scope. That will ensure that you buy the right product and don’t waste your hard-earned money. When the mount is correct, it helps you make the best use of your ar scope as well.

Hint: How far should a scope be from your eye?

Filed Under: Gun Scopes Tagged With: Best AR15 Mount Scopes, Gun Scopes, Hunting, Mount Scopes

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