First Thoughts on the Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black
The Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black promises to be a rock-solid foundation for mounting high-powered optics on AR-platform rifles. Manufactured by Leupold, a name synonymous with quality in the optics world, this mount features a one-piece design, a 20 MOA cant, and a 35mm ring size. This combination suggests it’s geared towards shooters looking to maximize their effective range, particularly for long-range precision shooting.
My journey to this particular mount began with a nagging problem: I was consistently running out of elevation adjustment on my existing setup when pushing my .308 AR-10 past 800 yards. I needed a solution that would allow me to fully utilize the capabilities of my long-range scope without resorting to shimming or other less-than-ideal fixes. The Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System with its integrated 20 MOA cant seemed like the perfect answer.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust feel of the mount. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction felt incredibly solid, and the matte black finish was clean and professional. Its weight, while noticeable, inspired confidence – this wasn’t some flimsy, lightweight mount that would flex under recoil. It felt like a precision piece of equipment.
Compared to other one-piece mounts I’ve used in the past, such as those from Aero Precision and Warne, the Leupold stood out due to its deliberate design for long-range shooting. While the others were excellent general-purpose mounts, they lacked the built-in elevation advantage of the 20 MOA cant. This feature alone made the Leupold the clear winner for my specific application.
My initial impression was one of cautious excitement. The quality was undeniable, but the true test would be how it performed on the rifle and whether it would actually solve my elevation problems. It felt like a serious upgrade that could potentially unlock a new level of precision in my long-range shooting endeavors.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System was at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on the 100-600 yard steel targets. I mounted it on my AR-10 chambered in .308 Winchester, paired with a high-end Leupold scope featuring a 35mm tube. The initial installation was straightforward, thanks to the one-piece design and clear instructions.
The conditions were fairly typical for a late summer afternoon: warm, with a slight breeze and plenty of sunlight. Zeroing at 100 yards was a breeze, and I quickly moved on to the longer distances. I immediately noticed the increased elevation adjustment range afforded by the 20 MOA cant. I was able to reach 600 yards with plenty of clicks to spare, something I couldn’t consistently achieve with my previous mount.
The ease of use was exceptional. The mount felt secure and stable, and the scope remained perfectly zeroed throughout the initial testing session. I encountered no issues whatsoever, and the experience was significantly better than struggling with the limitations of my old mount.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and a long-range shooting course, the Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has held zero flawlessly, even after being subjected to significant recoil and handling. I even took it out in a light rain shower, and the matte black finish showed no signs of corrosion or wear.
The durability of the mount is impressive. Despite repeated tightening and loosening of the mounting screws, there are no signs of stripped threads or deformation. Maintenance is also simple; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth is usually all that’s required.
Compared to my previous experiences with other mounts, the Leupold has significantly outperformed them in terms of stability, reliability, and ease of use. It’s a noticeable upgrade that has improved my long-range shooting performance. The peace of mind knowing my optic is securely and accurately mounted is invaluable.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black
Specifications
- MFG/Model: Integral Mounting System. This indicates it’s a one-piece design, providing increased rigidity and stability.
- Style: 20 MOA. The 20 MOA cant provides an additional 20 minutes of angle of elevation adjustment, crucial for long-range shooting. This is essential for overcoming bullet drop at extended distances.
- Finish: Matte Black. The matte black finish reduces glare and provides a non-reflective surface, important for tactical applications and hunting. It also contributes to the mount’s overall durability.
- Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum ensures a strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant mount. This is important for maintaining accuracy and reliability over time.
- Ring Size: Accepts 35mm rings. The 35mm ring size is designed to accommodate a wide range of high-performance optics with larger tube diameters. This provides versatility and compatibility with various scope models.
- AR-Platform Compatibility: Specifically designed for AR-platform rifles. This ensures a proper fit and optimal height for scopes on AR-15 and AR-10 style rifles.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System excels in its primary function: providing a stable and accurate platform for mounting optics. Its one-piece design eliminates potential weak points found in multi-piece setups, contributing to consistent zero retention. The integrated 20 MOA cant is a game-changer for long-range shooting, allowing shooters to maximize their scope’s elevation adjustment range.
The mount’s strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. The only potential weakness is that the one-piece design limits adjustability compared to individual rings, though this is a trade-off for increased stability. It undoubtedly meets and exceeds expectations, particularly for those seeking a reliable long-range mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The use of high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum and the precision machining result in a solid and durable mount. The weight is reasonable, considering the robust construction, and the mount sits flush with the receiver, maintaining a sleek profile.
The mount is user-friendly. The installation is straightforward, and the scope sits at an ideal height for comfortable cheek weld on an AR-platform rifle. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
With its aircraft-grade aluminum construction and durable matte black finish, the Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System is built to last. It’s resistant to corrosion, wear, and tear, and should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond the choice of compatible 35mm scopes. However, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with various AR-platform accessories, such as backup iron sights and rail-mounted lights or lasers. The compatibility with popular scope brands ensures a wide range of optic choices.
Pros and Cons of Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black
Pros
- Exceptional stability and zero retention due to its one-piece design.
- Integrated 20 MOA cant greatly enhances long-range shooting capabilities.
- High-quality aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures durability and longevity.
- Easy installation and user-friendly design makes it accessible to both experienced and novice shooters.
- Sleek matte black finish provides a professional look and reduces glare.
Cons
- One-piece design limits adjustability compared to individual rings.
- Specifically designed for AR platforms, limiting versatility with other rifle types.
Who Should Buy Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black?
The Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black is perfect for:
- Long-range shooters looking to maximize their effective range.
- Competitive shooters needing a reliable and stable mounting platform.
- Hunters using AR-platform rifles for longer shots.
- Anyone seeking a high-quality, durable, and easy-to-install scope mount for their AR.
This product might not be the best choice for:
- Shooters who primarily engage in close-quarters shooting.
- Those who need extreme adjustability in their scope mounting system.
- Individuals looking for a universal mount that can be used on multiple rifle platforms.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the mounting screws.
Conclusion on Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black
The Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System 1-Piece with 20 MOA Cant AR-Platform 35mm Matte Black is a premium scope mount that delivers on its promise of stability, accuracy, and enhanced long-range performance. The one-piece design and integrated 20 MOA cant are significant advantages for shooters looking to push the limits of their AR-platform rifles.
The price of $269.49 is justified by the exceptional build quality, reliable performance, and the reputation of Leupold. While the one-piece design might limit adjustability for some, the benefits of increased stability and zero retention outweigh this drawback for most long-range applications.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold Mark Integral Mounting System to anyone seeking a top-tier scope mount for their AR-platform rifle. If you’re serious about long-range shooting and demand the best, this mount is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your AR and experience the difference a quality mount can make!