Got a mounting base or bases on your rifle? That should be a yes.
Now is the fun part, choosing a mount for your riflescope!
Between rings and off-set mounts, low and tall heights, fixed and quick-release, choosing the best scope mounts can get overwhelming fast.
To narrow down the options, I’ve come up with a list of the most popular scope mounts each with a highlight feature. Maybe one will catch your eye?
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After hundreds of hours of hand-testing scopes in the field and at the range, and thousands more hours researching and writing about them, we feel we earn the title of experts when it comes to optics!
We purchase as many of the optics and accessories, including mounts, for our tests as possible, and run them through their paces to make sure they will perform at the range and in the field.
Our combined decades of experience from mounting scopes and troubleshooting mount problems has been integral in putting together this round-up of the best scope mounts.
Get the inside scoop on how we test optics here.
Best Scope Mounts in 2024
1. Spuhr ISMS 34 mm Rifle Scope Mount - Best Overall
Perhaps one of the biggest mount manufacturer names amongst professionals is Spuhr. Their mounts are crazy expensive but excellently executed. If you have about $500 reserved just for a mount, you can get a Spuhr and play with the big kids.
Pros:
- 34 mm
- ISMS model
- 45-degree split
- 0 or 20 MOA
- Accessory attachment points
Cons:
- Cost
ISMS stands for Ideal Scope Mount System. It’s basically what the pro PRS and snipers use to close the incredibly small gaps in long-range comps.
The scope is made from a single aluminum billet expertly machined to provide concentric rings with perfect alignment, no lapping required. For the money, it better not need it and I’d personally cringe if you took anything to this mount.
If you look at the ring screw mounts, you’ll notice that they’re at a 45-degree angle. This allows for a low-profile ring so that you can still see your dials.
The Spuhr ISMS mount also has several positions for mounting additional accessories like lasers, flashlights, red dots, and more. You can get this model in various cants either in MIL or MOA, and it will be engraved on the mount.
This thing is solid and robust. It’s beefy, so it makes sense that it will be heavy at approximately 9 oz. This mount isn’t going anywhere, and your scope will be rock solid in an iron grip without actually feeling like it – no finish marring, tube denting, or erector system binding. Though it looks ultra-tough, don’t over torque it. 20-25 in lbs is all it will take.
Based off price alone, I don’t know that I could recommend the Spuhr mount because it probably costs more than the scope you have or you’re not shooting upwards of 5,000 rounds a year. If this isn’t you, then the Spuhr mount is overkill.
For the few of you that want the absolute best for life/death professions, competition, or for a very expensive scope, the Spuhr should be on your shortlist.
2. Vortex Pro Series Rings – Best 30 mm Rings
The Vortex Pro Series rings are some of the best-selling mounting rings in the industry. With four heights to choose from, there’s definitely a pair that will work for you.
Pros:
- 4 sizes
- Picatinny/Weaver
- Integrataed recoil lug
- Laser engraved torque specs
- Made in USA
Cons:
- Cost
Though the Pro Series rings cost almost $100 as a strike-through price with many retailers, this isn’t ‘expensive’ when you consider how expensive mounting systems can get. Yet, I’d still consider the $75-$180 mid-range in terms of cost and quality for mounts.
I think the Vortex Pro Series rings are sexy. I really like the horizontal split, they’re bulky in the right kind of way, and though I’m not one for white lettering on my gear, I must admit that the engraved torque specs are convenient.
The hard matte anodized coating will protect the finish. Each ring comes with two T-25 Torx screws. I’m all about the integrated recoil lug. Lug engagement helps to prevent shifting during recoil, and I love that it’s not loose like a crossbolt.
The low ring height puts the optical axis at .9”, the mediums at 1”, the highs at 1.26”, and the extra highs at 1.54”. With these sizes, there’s a pair that’s right for you.
3. Monstrum 1” Precision Rings – Best for the Money
It’s fair to say that Monstrum is now a household name. This would be thanks to affordable prices and good optics and gear performance. It’s no wonder that their 1” Precision scope rings are very popular as they come in under $20.
Pros:
- Cost
- Picatinny & Weaver rings
- 4 sizes
- Horizontal split
- Integrated recoil lugs
Cons:
- Quality control issues
One of the most consistent complaints about the Monstrum rings are related to scope fitment. Many lapped the rings themselves and were satisfied with the results. However, other issues from packaging (the rings are put together in the same baggie) to screw issues make up the rest of the complaints.
For its low price point, it’s definitely not going to be perfect. The rings are covered by Monstrum for a lifetime, so that’s good news.
I like the horizontal split over a vertical split, so the Precision rings have that going for them too. They’re made from aluminum, and I like that there’s no obnoxious lettering or white paint on the rings. It’s just a laser etched logo of Monstrum – nice touch.
I recommend being extra conscious about the ones you’re buying as they’re not Picatinny/Weaver interchangeable. The rings come fitted for either Picatinny bases or Weaver bases because the built-in recoil lugs are sized for each type, so choose accordingly.
With 4 sizes, the low puts the optical axis at 0.8”, the mediums at 1”, the highs at 1.2” and the very highs at 1.35”.
The Monstrum Precision rings have good features, are built durably, and are cheap. It’s why they’re highly ranked and bought more often than alternatives.
4. Leupold Rifleman Rings – Best Weaver Mount
If you have a Weaver base, you’ll need a Weaver mount that has smaller slots than the Picatinny, and one such mounting system that’s compatible is the Leupold Rifleman rings. To date, it’s still one of Leupold’s top-selling rings.
Pros:
- Cost
- 1” rings
- Weaver
- Crossbolt lug
- See-through rings
Cons:
- Gloss finish
Though the gloss finish is fancy, many might not necessarily like the look or appreciate the ‘shine’ in the hunt. However, there are matte finishes, but you might need to hunt for those if you’re not buying directly from Leupold.
These Weaver mounting rings have solid performance, and best of all, they’re an economical mounting system from Leupold. Trust me, you can spend a lot more on mounts from Leupold, so these are the cheapest option.
The Rifleman rings have a crossbolt lug, so it’s a separate piece – be careful not to lose those! I think one thing to take note of is that each mounting ring takes three screws, two for the top ring and one for the base.
There are multiple sizes from .22 RF 3/8” rings and low rings to medium and high rings. One of the most popular versions is the see-through rings. The high height with the see-through detachable design has a center height of 1.44”. This might just be enough to keep your iron sights on your rifle and still see them below the scope.
For the money and the Leupold brand, it’s obvious why the Rifleman rings are still trending!
5. Vortex Sport Cantilever Mount – Best Cantilever Mount
I wanted a Vortex mount for my Vortex scope, and the cheapest one to get the job done is the Vortex Sport Cantilever mount. At just over $100, it’s still an expensive buy, but if you want Vortex-brand gear, the Sport mount is the most economical option.
Pros:
- 1” & 30mm
- 2 & 3” offsets
- All are #8 screws
- 4 screws per ring
- Durable
Cons:
- Cost
The Vortex Sport Cantilever mount is made in China and that seems to be a common complaint among buyers. However, it is well-made and durable. For a while, it was my only cantilever mount, so it was switched around between flat-top rifles and used to mount various scopes. It’s fair to say that it’s held up well over the years.
There are options between 1” and 30mm diameter mounts and you can get either with a 2” offset or a 3” offset. I have the 30mm mount with the 3” offset. The Sport mount also puts the optical center of the scope at a 1.59” height.
I like that each ring has 4 screws for a secure fit. All screws are #8 and a T-15 wrench is included in the box. I think it’s hard on the fingers, so I don’t use it and opt for a bit with my torque wrench instead. Specs say to torque down the base to 20 in-lbs and the rings to 18 in-lbs. That’s what I do, and the Vortex Sport Cantilever mount is still a go-to mount for me today.
It is pricey for the money, especially comparing it to alternatives since it doesn’t have any special features such as quick-detach levers. I think if you want Vortex gear, this is the cheapest it will get for a cantilever mount, but you are getting a durable, long-lasting mount out of it.
6. Monstrum Slim Profile Series – Best Quick Release Mount
There’s the Monstrum Slim Profile Series with fixed mounts and the Slim Profile Series with the quick release mount. I’m covering the latter as the price difference between the two isn’t much, both are very popular, and there’s no denying the convenience of the quick-release system.
Pros:
- Cost
- Black & FDE colors
- 1” & 30 mm sizes
- Lightweight
- Quick-release levers
Cons:
- Not FDE?
The only difference between the Slim Profile and the Slim Profile QR mounts is the quick-release system. The Slim Profile series are 5 oz in weight, and though the Slim Profile series with the quick release mount says it’s 5 oz, it’s not. It’s likely a couple more ounces heavier given the big levers.
You can choose between black or FDE colors though I should warn you that some people say that the FDE is actually more like an army green. So, if you’re looking to match your FDE irons and an FDE scope with your ‘FDE’ mount, you might not like the ‘match.’
Monstrum has the quick-release mounts in 1” and 30 mm ring sizes, both of which have 2” offsets. They have a mounting base length of 3”.
Why choose quick release mounts? If you switch out scopes on the same rifle often, it’s convenient to remove the entire mount and the scope with it. Also, for those who use BUIS as a secondary sighting system and don’t have them at an offset, you can quickly remove the scope by just removing the mount. The quick release levers are unquestionably faster to detach than taking a wrench to a fixed mount.
Trust Monstrum to provide an affordable mounting system to stick it to big-name manufacturers. They might not be considered the absolute best out there in terms of performance or durability for heavy duty use, but Monstrum consistently ranks just as high as more expensive alternatives.
7. Primary Arms Deluxe AR-15 Mount – Best for AR-15
The Primary arms Deluxe AR-15 mount isn’t as well-known as the Vortex Sport or Monstrum cantilever mounts, but I’ve been using it for a while and it’s effective. It’s more affordable than some other brand-name mounts, and I like the nuts that give this mount a sort of quick release experience.
Pros:
- Cost
- 30 mm
- Heavy duty
- Nut tension
- Matte anodized finish
Cons:
- A little heavy
Weighing in at 8.2 oz, the Deluxe AR-15 cantilever mount is a little heavier than other alternatives like the Vortex Sport at 6.7 oz and the Monstrum Slim Profile with Quick Release at approx. 7 oz. Though you could argue that the Deluxe weighs about the same as a Burris PEPR mount, the latter has integrated Pic rail tops and looks beefier.
Being fair, which I can be because I have it, the Deluxe mount is slightly bulky and is rock solid. It’s been through the ringer with all the scopes and abuse I’ve put through it.
This model has a 30 mm ring diameter, so I’ve found it ideal for mounting LPVO scopes like the field-tested Primary Arms GLx 1-6x24 FFP. Each ring takes 4 screws to give it a secure fit and hold your scope during all the recoil, knock-arounds, and falls.
The matte anodized finish is pretty good too. It hasn’t taken on any significant marring even though I’ve drop tested it, water-tested it, and used it with several scopes.
The hex nuts aren’t necessarily a quick release system, but it’s far easier and faster than fixed mounts where you must have a tool to mount and dismount. The nuts are finger tightened and then one last ½ turn with something like a hex wrench or flathead will do the trick.
Though some will argue this fact, I’ve found the Primary Arms Deluxe AR-15 mount to be heavy duty. It’s taken a beating for me over several field tests with various scopes, it’s easy to use, and I have no issues with the screws or feel that the rings need to be lapped. For the money, it’s one of the best AR-15 mounts out there.
8. Burris P.E.P.R. Cantilever Mount – Best Tactical Mount
P.E.P.R. is said like “pepper” and stands for Proper Eye Position Ready. This is the Burris ‘Pepper’ mount that’s built like a tank, has a 2” offset, six screws per ring, and integrated Picatinny ring tops. It’s the ultimate tactical mount for home defense, range shooting, and more!
Pros:
- Cost
- Ideal for flat-top
- Smooth & Picatinny ring tops
- Hex nut & QD bases
- Various sizes
Cons:
- Heavy
The PEPR mount weighs in at almost 9 oz, so it’s heavier than some alternatives, but it’s not the heaviest cantilever mount out there. The mount puts the scope at 1.6” high and the rings are spaced 2.15” apart from the inners.
The rings tops are awesome because it means you can mount various accessories to the top of your scope such as a micro red dot sight. In the box are smooth ring tops if you don’t like or want the Picatinny tops.
With 6 screws per ring, the scope will be extra secure. You might not need to torque all the way up to 20 in lbs, and it should still provide even pressure with the wide tops.
There are QD lever bases available on the PEPR mount, but the QD version costs more. The standard version is the base with the hex nuts. They come out about a 0.5”, and they are kinda big, so they could snag on stuff, but I personally like them big because makes them so easy to use and grab. I think it also complements the overall bulky build of the PEPR.
The PEPER comes in 1”, 30 mm, and 34 mm sizes. Just pay attention to model numbers when you purchase it to make sure you get the one you want.
The Burris PEPR mount is much cheaper than the Vortex Sport Cantilever mount, which it is often compared to, but the base tension system, weight, cost, and performance are closer to the Primary Arms Deluxe AR-15 mount. It’s a good mount with value.
9. Warne Maxima PA Rings – Best Horizontal Rings
What I really like about Warne rings is that they’re available everywhere. I can go down to my local sporting goods store and grab a pack off the shelf. The Maxima horizontal rings are some of my go-to rings for a quick mounting setup for a new scope.
Pros:
- Cost
- Horizontal split
- Steel
- Picatinny/Weaver
- Made in USA
Cons:
- Weight
The terminology can be confusing but when Warne says it has a square recoil key, it means that it has an integrated recoil lug/pin. I like that it’s fixed in place because it means it won’t fall out on me and won’t be a pain to put back in during the mounting process whether I’m at the workbench or in the field.
For the money, the Warne Maxima PA rings range from about $50 to $75, and I’ve found that to be true in person at the store too. If you can’t make a trip into town to hunt some down, ordering online is the best option if you want solid quality rings that are made in the USA.
Though some might complain about the heft of the rings, I’ve found there’s no pleasing everyone. Some people moan about aluminum rings and want something that seems more solid, so these are made out of steel and around 6 oz. Cue the moans about weight right about now…
The bases are torqued down to no more than 25 in lbs while the rings are spec’d for no more than 18 in lbs.
These rings have the fixed style, so they’re not quick release. You must have a T-15 Torx wrench to get these on and off the mounting base. A little Loctite will keep things ultra-secure even during heavy repeated recoil.
10. Burris XTR Signature Rings – Best Custom Mounts
For those that need a little extra MOA to get out further, the Burris XTR Signature design is one of the most innovative ring mounting systems there is. I call these custom mounts because they come with inserts to add more elevation in 5 MOA increments up to 40 MOA. Welcome to Pos-Align technology.
Pros:
- Cant customization
- Pos-Align inserts
- Horizontal split
- 6 screws per ring
- 2 clamp screws per base
Cons:
- Not Weaver compatible
The XTR Signature rings are a brilliant concept. They’re intended to provide more elevation for longer range shooting if you can’t get it from the mounting base or the scope. They’re also intended to help correct for bases that are slightly off.
The idea is great, it works, and the Pos-Align inserts are plastic, so it won’t mar the scope. But understanding how they work can be very complicated for someone new to shooting. It’s not the easiest system to understand, so it does require a learning curve to get efficient results from the XTR rings.
They have a horizontal split with wide ring tops that takes six screws for secure mounting. Each base takes two screws. Though the bases are spec’d to be torqued down between 40-70 in lbs, I think that’s a lot for steel screws in aluminum rings. I’m more afraid of over torquing at this point, so if you wanted, you could use a little Loctite and reduce the torque to under 40 in lbs, but I would be happy around 30-35 in-lbs max.
Though the Burris XTR rings are advertised to be compatible with ‘most’ Weaver rails, many reports say that it doesn’t fit. For its high cost, I’d stick to using these on Pic rails.
11. Aero Precision Ultralight Cantilever Mount – Best Lightweight Mount
If you’re looking for the lightest cantilever mount to keep overall weight down, the Aero Precision Ultralight Mount is the way to go. The Extended model has a 1” offset, 30 mm ring diameter, and as the name suggests, is ultralightweight at only 3.27 oz.
Pros:
- Cost
- Ultralight
- 1” offset
- 30 mm
- Made in America
Cons:
- Tedious to mount
As you can see, the rings have a sort of vertical split with the screws close to the base mount and the top half secured with a hook system. It’s a different mounting idea and seems to work, but the problem is the exaggerated scope twisting when torquing down the screws. This can make for a tedious mounting session. Make sure to alternate between screws at even intervals to minimize scope rotation.
Other than that, this is one of the lightest cantilever mounts in the industry. It’s ultra-slim profile and aluminum body bodes well for those looking for a minimalist approach.
Though many mounting systems are made from aluminum for its lightweight properties, there have been reports of mount failure, and fortunately, those are few. For the money, it has good value, and many like that the Aero Precision Ultralight Extended mount is made in America.
Buyers like the design, performance, and the anodized finish. Mounting length is 3.5” while the inner space between the rings is 2.45” wide. This mount puts the optical center at 1.50”.
There is a 1” mount in this series, but this specific one I’m reviewing is the 30 mm mount that will fit riflescopes with a 30 mm tube. The only difference is the ring diameter and the weight. The 1” version weighs 3.07 oz.
For a reliable (as can be), ultralightweight, and stable mount, the Aero Precision Ultralight Extended mount is a worthy buy.
12. Arken Optics Rigid Precision Mount – Best 20 MOA Mount
The Rigid Precision mount by Arken Optics comes with no cant and built-in 20 MOA cant for those who need extra elevation out of their scope without touching the rail base on their rifle. Priced at what can be considered a low price point for cantilever mounts, the Arken is a budget buy.
Pros:
- 20 MOA
- 2.5” offset
- Fits Picatinny rails
- Torque specs on mount
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Made in China
There haven’t been complaints about the Arken Optics mount being made in China… yet. A lot of scope mounts often get criticism for being made in China, but that may be part of the reason the Rigid Precision mount has a low price point for a cantilever mount and built-in MOA.
It actually has a very good rating and appears to do the job to get more elevation out of your scope. It’s not unlike other cantilever mounts with its 1.5” optical center, but it does have a slightly longer mounting length of 3.74”. Inner rings are 2.44” wide and the top rings are 1” wide. This allows for 4 screws per ring.
There are three clamping screws on the base, and Arken conveniently has the torque specs printed on the mount: 18 in lbs for the rings and 30 in lbs for the base.
The Rigid Precision Mount comes in two sizes: 30 mm and 34 mm, and weighs approximately 6 oz. For the money, it offers a lot of value. If you don’t want to spend close to or upwards of $100 for a canted mount, give the Arken Rigid Precision Mount a try.
13. Modkin 1” Dovetail Scope Rings – Best Dovetail Rings
- Double scope ring mount for 11mm dovetail mounts.
- One of the dovetail rings features a stop pin, for rock solid application.
There are rail adapter options for a dovetail base, but if you don’t want the extra cost or riser height and you just want to get a scope on your rifle, the Modkin dovetail rings will get it done and will get it done with minimal cost.
Pros:
- Cost
- 1” size
- 11 mm dovetail rings
- High height
- Built-in tape
Cons:
- Quality issues
From poor machining to junky screws, there have been some problems with the Modkin rings. There’s plenty of people that are happy with the quality and others that happened to get ones with issues. I think the takeaway is that the Modkin dovetail rings are more of a temporary mounting solution. They seem to last for a while, a few months, but then fail after that due to wear and tear.
What I recommend these for is a light recoil rifle for an immediate mounting system until you’ve decided on a more expensive and higher quality mount for your dovetail base.
The Modkin rings fit 11 mm dovetail bases, so they are not compatible with Picatinny rails! This should be a no-brainer but there are those who have bought them and then made this very complaint… not pointing fingers at anyone… or am I?
These have a high height according to Arken measuring 0.8” from the base of the ring to the top of the dovetail. This fits scopes with 1” tubes. It appears that only one ring has a ‘stop pin’ which seems to be the recoil pin for lug engagement during recoil to prevent movement and shifting. I like the built-in tape that helps to prevent scope body marring.
The Modkin dovetail scope rings are cheap but they’re a low-cost solution to fulfill the immediate need until you get a better more permanent mount. I wouldn’t recommend them for long-term use, but if you need a dovetail solution now without spending more than ten bucks, these will do.
FAQ's
In general, keeping the scope as low as possible without the objective bell touching the barrel is the common rule of thumb. However, other things to take into account are cheekweld, canted mounts, and the amount of drop (if any) between the action and the stock.
For more clarity on what height rings you need, check out our How to Measure Scope Ring Height guide on it.
Scope rings can affect accuracy. When buying new scope rings, be sure to re-zero the riflescope. Torquing down the rings to manufacturer specs will ensure proper scope mounting for consistent performance. If the screws are loose or over-torqued, it will affect zero retention and accuracy.
On average, many scope rings and mounts these days are concentric and don’t require lapping. However, due to either poor machining or other issues, lapping rings can improve the contact between the scope tube and ring surface to aid in improved zero retention and accuracy.
To learn more about the lapping process, see our How to Lap Scope Rings guide.
In total, Loctite on mounting screws isn't recommended. It can unintentionally encourage over-torquing the screws causing problems for both the mount and the scope. However, there are different strengths of Loctite, and it might help to keep screws from loosening over time from repeated recoil.
One of my biggest pet peeves with Loctite on mounts is that it makes it difficult to remove later on. As a general rule, I don’t use Loctite because I am constantly switching out scopes between mounts and rifles. If you’re going for the one-stop solution, I’d say moderation is key to proper use.
Don’t Skimp on Your Scope Mount!
Overall, quality scope mounts aren’t cheap. High-quality one-piece mounts tend to start at around $100 while high-end rings start around $50. They do get more expensive for additional features like built-in levels, quick-release systems, and built-in cant.
If you’re thinking of spending as minimal as possible, let me insert a warning. Cheap mounts can cause over-torquing in an attempt to overcompensate for poor threading and screw loosening. The scope can also slide and shift inside the rings during recoil and vibrations which throws off accuracy and ultimately causes a loss of zero retention.
You likely put a lot of thought into the purchase of your scope, so put the same or more thought into the purchase of your mount as it's a must-have riflescope accessory. If you’re getting erratic and inconsistent results with a good scope, the weak link may very well be your mount. Don’t skimp!
Further Reading
