CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount Review

Let’s Talk About CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount

The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount offers a seemingly affordable solution for mounting a 1-inch tube scope to a rifle with a dovetail rail. CenterPoint is a brand known for offering budget-friendly optics and accessories, and this mount aims to bring scope-mounting capability to air rifles and some rimfire rifles without breaking the bank. I was initially drawn to this product as a way to mount a spare scope onto my vintage .22 plinker.

I had a specific problem I needed to solve: I wanted to use a modern scope on an older rifle that only had a dovetail rail. Other options seemed overly expensive for a rifle that sees limited use, so the CenterPoint mount seemed like a good compromise. My initial unboxing experience was…underwhelming. The mount felt lightweight, constructed from what seemed like a lower-grade aluminum.

Compared to other scope mounts I’ve used from brands like Leupold and Weaver, the CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount felt significantly less robust. I was considering a UTG mount or a set of BKL rings, but the integrated nature of the CenterPoint seemed simpler, at least initially. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, tinged with a bit of skepticism given the price point.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount at my local outdoor shooting range on a clear, but slightly breezy, afternoon. The rifle used was a Marlin Model 60 .22LR. Mounting the scope was straightforward, but I immediately noticed that the screws holding the scope rings were of questionable quality and stripped easily if overtightened.

Despite the initial concerns, the mount seemed to hold zero through the first 50 rounds. The dovetail clamps initially held tight, but after about 100 rounds, the scope started to shift slightly. I attribute this to the recoil (however minimal) of the .22LR and the questionable clamping force of the mount.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions, the CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount exhibited noticeable wear and tear. The black finish started to scratch easily, and the screws holding the rings together began to show signs of rust. Cleaning was simple enough, but the overall construction didn’t inspire confidence.

Compared to my experiences with higher-quality mounts, the CenterPoint option felt flimsy and unreliable. I’ve used Weaver and Leupold mounts on larger caliber rifles for years without any issues. The CenterPoint simply doesn’t inspire the same level of confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount

Specifications

• The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount is designed for dovetail rails. It is compatible with rifles featuring this mounting system.
• It accommodates scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter, a very common size. This allows for the use of a wide range of scopes.
• The mount comes in black, a standard color for firearm accessories. This finish provides a non-reflective surface.
• It has a length of 4 inches, offering a decent amount of space for scope positioning. This helps with eye relief adjustment.
• The height of the mount, from the base to the bottom of the scope tube, is .705 inches. This translates to a “medium height” mount.
• The mount is sold individually (Quantity: 1). A single purchase is sufficient for mounting one scope.

These specifications are adequate for basic scope mounting. However, the materials used directly impact the mount’s overall performance and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount functions, but not exceptionally well. Accuracy is acceptable at close ranges, but the shifting I experienced negatively impacts consistency at longer distances. The biggest weakness is the lack of solid clamping force on both the scope tube and the dovetail rail.

While it meets the basic expectation of holding a scope, it falls short in terms of long-term reliability. It needs significant improvement in material quality and clamping design.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is where the CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount suffers the most. The aluminum feels lightweight and prone to damage, and the screws are of low quality. The mount is relatively easy to install, although stripping the screws is a legitimate concern.

The learning curve is minimal, but the overall feel of the mount is far from confidence-inspiring. I feel this is a reflection of the materials used.

Durability & Maintenance

I don’t have high expectations for the long-term durability of the CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount. The finish scratches easily, and the screws are likely to rust over time. Cleaning is simple, but the mount itself isn’t likely to withstand heavy use.

Repairing stripped screws could be a challenge, and finding exact replacements may prove difficult. Overall, maintenance is easy, but longevity is questionable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Its main function is to provide a platform for mounting a scope. No real customization options exist.

It’s compatible with any 1-inch tube scope, but beyond that, there’s little room for modification. The integrated design limits accessory options.

Pros and Cons of CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount?

The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount is perfect for casual plinkers or those on an extremely tight budget who need a temporary scope mounting solution for a light-recoiling rifle. It might also suit someone looking for a basic mount for an air rifle.

Those who should skip this product include serious hunters, competitive shooters, or anyone needing a reliable, long-lasting scope mount for larger caliber firearms. A must-have modification would be replacing the included screws with higher-quality alternatives, though this adds to the overall cost.

Conclusion on CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount

The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount offers a budget-friendly entry point into scope mounting on dovetail rails. However, its low price comes with compromises in durability and reliability. The value proposition is questionable, as the potential for scope shifting and the short lifespan of the mount might outweigh the initial cost savings.

I would personally recommend spending a bit more on a higher-quality mount from a more reputable brand. The CenterPoint Dovetail Rifle Scope Mount serves its purpose in the short term, but ultimately falls short for serious or frequent use. Consider this a temporary solution, and invest in something better when possible.