The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve handled countless scope mounts. The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount promised to be different, offering a low-profile, 20 MOA solution for bolt guns demanding precision at extended ranges. This mount piqued my interest because I needed a rock-solid, repeatable system for my custom .308 precision rifle build, designed for both long-range target shooting and potential hog hunting applications.
I was facing challenges achieving consistent zero at distances beyond 600 yards with my previous mount, which lacked any built-in MOA. I was looking for a mount that could provide that extra elevation without maxing out my scope’s internal adjustment. The promise of American Defense Manufacturing’s reputation for quality and their innovative QD lever system sealed the deal.
Unboxing the AD-RECON-SL, I was immediately struck by its robust yet sleek design. The T3 Mil-Spec Anodized finish on the 6061-T6 aluminum gave it a serious, no-nonsense look. Its weight, at 8.5 oz, felt substantial enough to inspire confidence, yet light enough to avoid adding unnecessary bulk to my rifle.
Compared to a Leupold Mark 4 mount and a Nightforce Ultralite mount I’ve used in the past, the AD-RECON-SL stood out with its QD lever system and integrated 20 MOA. Both the Leupold and Nightforce mounts required tools for installation and offered no built-in elevation bias. I chose the American Defense Manufacturing mount for its combination of convenience, elevation adjustment, and reputation for returning to zero after removal and reattachment.
My first impression was one of excitement mingled with a touch of skepticism. Could this mount truly live up to the hype and deliver the repeatable precision I was seeking? I was eager to put it to the test and find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range with distances out to 800 yards. The weather was mild and clear, perfect conditions for sighting in my rifle. I installed the AD-RECON-SL with ease, thanks to American Defense Manufacturing’s intuitive QD lever system, and mounted my Vortex Razor HD Gen II scope.
The mount held the scope securely, and the QD levers locked down with a reassuring click. After bore sighting, I was hitting paper at 100 yards within the first few shots. Making adjustments and re-zeroing at longer distances was straightforward.
There were no immediate issues, and the 20 MOA built into the mount proved invaluable, allowing me to dial in my scope with plenty of elevation travel to spare. The only surprise was how quickly I was able to achieve consistent hits at distances I previously struggled with.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past several months, I’ve used the AD-RECON-SL extensively in various conditions. I have taken it out in light rain, dealt with dusty environments, and encountered temperatures ranging from 40°F to 90°F. The mount has held up flawlessly, showing no signs of loosening or shifting zero.
The anodized finish has proven to be remarkably durable, resisting scratches and wear from regular use and transport. Cleaning is simple, usually just requiring a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. The AD-RECON-SL has consistently outperformed my previous mounts, offering superior repeatability and rock-solid stability.
Compared to my past experiences with mounts that gradually lose zero after repeated removal and reattachment, the AD-RECON-SL’s ability to maintain zero is exceptional. This instills a high level of confidence. I can now quickly detach my scope for storage or transport and reattach it without worrying about having to completely re-zero.
Breaking Down the Features of American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount
Specifications
The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount is crafted from 6061-T6 Aluminum, known for its strength-to-weight ratio. Its T3 Mil-Spec Anodize finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The mount weighs in at 8.5 oz, striking a balance between lightweight design and sturdy construction.
It is designed to attach to any MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail, offering wide compatibility with modern rifles. This mount features a 20 MOA bias, providing additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting. This is particularly valuable for cartridges with significant bullet drop at extended distances.
These specifications contribute directly to the mount’s performance by ensuring a secure and stable platform for the scope, while also providing the necessary elevation adjustment for accurate long-range shooting. The lightweight construction prevents unnecessary bulk, and the durable finish protects against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount excels at its primary function: securely holding a scope and maintaining zero under demanding conditions. Its rock-solid construction and precise tolerances ensure that the scope remains firmly in place, even after repeated firing and rough handling. The QD lever system allows for quick and easy removal and reattachment, without sacrificing accuracy.
The integrated 20 MOA bias is a significant strength, allowing shooters to utilize the full range of their scope’s elevation adjustment. There are no notable weaknesses in its performance. It meets and exceeds expectations for a high-quality scope mount.
Design & Ergonomics
The AD-RECON-SL’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The low-profile design minimizes bulk and keeps the scope close to the bore, improving balance and reducing the likelihood of snagging. The QD levers are ergonomically designed for easy operation, even with gloved hands.
The build quality is exceptional, with precise machining and a flawless finish. It feels incredibly solid and well-made. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this mount. It is intuitive and straightforward to install and adjust.
Durability & Maintenance
The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount is built to last. Its robust construction and durable finish ensure that it can withstand years of use in demanding conditions. Regular maintenance is minimal, typically just requiring a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent corrosion.
The mount is designed to be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning if necessary. Its high-quality materials and construction suggest that it will require minimal repairs over its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount does not come with any specific accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. Its primary function is to provide a secure and stable platform for mounting a scope. It is compatible with any scope that utilizes standard 1-inch or 30mm rings, depending on the model chosen.
There are no specific American Defense Manufacturing accessories designed specifically for this mount. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket scope rings and levels. The MIL-STD 1913 rail interface ensures compatibility with various Picatinny-mounted accessories, offering significant customization potential.
Pros and Cons of American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount
Pros
- Exceptional Return to Zero: Maintains zero after repeated removal and reattachment, saving time and ammunition.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 6061-T6 aluminum with a robust T3 Mil-Spec Anodized finish.
- Easy to Use: The QD lever system allows for quick and easy installation and removal.
- Integrated 20 MOA: Provides additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting.
- Low Profile Design: Minimizes bulk and keeps the scope close to the bore for improved balance.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some competing mounts.
- Weight: While robust, 8.5oz adds slightly more weight than ultra-lightweight alternatives.
Who Should Buy American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount?
The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount is perfect for serious shooters, long-range enthusiasts, hunters, and tactical operators. Anyone who demands a reliable, repeatable, and easy-to-use scope mounting solution will benefit from this mount. It is particularly well-suited for those who frequently remove and reattach their scopes or who require additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters who rarely remove their scopes or those on a very tight budget. It may be overkill for shorter-range applications where the 20 MOA bias is unnecessary. A must-have accessory is a high-quality scope level to ensure the scope is perfectly aligned during installation.
Conclusion on American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount
The American Defense Manufacturing AD-RECON-SL 20 MOA Scope Mount is a top-tier product that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its durable construction, easy-to-use QD lever system, and integrated 20 MOA make it an excellent choice for serious shooters. The price is justified by its quality and performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this mount to anyone seeking a rock-solid and repeatable scope mounting solution. If you’re looking for a mount that will hold zero, withstand abuse, and provide the extra elevation you need for long-range accuracy, look no further. Upgrade your rifle with the AD-RECON-SL and experience the difference. You won’t regret it.