Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch Review

First Thoughts on the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch promises a robust and reliable platform for mounting optics on modern sporting rifles. Offered by Athlon, a company known for balancing quality and affordability, this mount aims to provide a stable and repeatable zero for shooters of all levels. My first impression was positive, as the price point of $59.99 is certainly appealing, especially compared to some of the more expensive cantilever mounts on the market.

I’ve been struggling to achieve consistent accuracy with my AR-15 build. My current scope rings, while functional, aren’t providing the optimal eye relief needed for comfortable and accurate shooting. A cantilever mount seemed like the logical solution to properly position my scope and improve my overall shooting experience.

Upon unboxing the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch, I immediately noticed its clean, streamlined design. The mount felt solid in my hands, suggesting a durable build quality. The finish appeared to be a consistent matte black, promising decent resistance to wear and tear.

Compared to some other cantilever mounts I’ve considered, like those from Aero Precision or Leupold, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch stands out due to its budget-friendly price tag. I opted for the Athlon mount because I wanted a reliable cantilever option without breaking the bank. My hope was to achieve similar performance at a fraction of the cost.

My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could a mount at this price point truly deliver the stability and precision needed for accurate shooting? Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was sunny, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for zeroing my rifle. I mounted a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 scope onto the mount and then attached the entire assembly to my AR-15.

Performance remained consistent even after several strings of fire. The mount held its zero admirably, even with the slight recoil of my .223 rounds. This was a pleasant surprise, as I initially expected some shift due to the lower price point.

The installation process was straightforward, and I found that the mount provided ample clearance for my charging handle. Adjusting the scope’s position to achieve optimal eye relief was significantly easier compared to using traditional scope rings. No issues arose during the first use, bolstering my confidence in its overall performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions spanning a few months, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch has continued to perform admirably. There are no visible signs of wear and tear. The finish has held up well, showing no significant scratches or blemishes despite regular handling.

Maintaining the mount is simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient. I’ve also periodically checked the screw torque to ensure everything remains secure. So far, I haven’t needed to re-torque any of the screws.

Compared to my previous experience with standard scope rings, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch has significantly improved my shooting comfort and consistency. The extended eye relief has reduced eye strain, and the stable platform has contributed to tighter groupings on target. It outperforms my expectations, particularly given its affordable price.

Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch

Specifications

• The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch is designed to accommodate scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter. This is a common size, making it compatible with a wide range of optics.
• The mount is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. This material offers a good balance of strength and weight.
• The cantilever design provides approximately 2 inches of forward extension. This allows for flexible scope placement to achieve optimal eye relief on AR-platform rifles.
• The mount features a matte black anodized finish. This finish provides corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
• It weighs approximately 6 ounces. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the rifle.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the mount’s performance and usability. The aluminum construction ensures durability without adding excessive weight. The cantilever design solves common eye relief issues on AR-style rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch performs its primary function of securely holding a scope very well. It maintains a consistent zero even after repeated use and recoil. The cantilever design effectively addresses eye relief issues, making it easier to acquire a clear sight picture.

The mount’s strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. It’s a straightforward design that performs its intended purpose reliably. A minor weakness might be the lack of quick-detach levers, which would offer faster scope removal and re-attachment.

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch meets my expectations for a budget-friendly cantilever mount. It provides a stable and reliable platform for my optic, improving my shooting experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch features a streamlined and functional design. The matte black finish gives it a sleek, understated appearance.

The mount feels solid and well-made in hand, inspiring confidence in its durability. There is minimal to no learning curve associated with its installation and use.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch is built to last. The anodized finish provides a protective layer against corrosion and wear.

Maintaining the mount is straightforward. Regular cleaning and periodic torque checks are all that’s required to keep it in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It is designed to be compatible with any 1-inch tube diameter scope.

There are no specific customization options available for the mount itself. However, it will readily attach to any Picatinny rail system commonly found on AR-15 rifles and similar platforms.

Pros and Cons of Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch

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Who Should Buy Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch?

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a reliable and functional cantilever mount for their AR-15 or similar rifle. It’s also a good choice for recreational shooters or hunters who want to improve their shooting comfort and accuracy without spending a fortune.

Those who require quick-detach capabilities or are looking for a mount with a more refined aesthetic might want to consider other options. High-volume competitive shooters who demand the absolute best performance may also prefer a more premium mount.

A must-have accessory for this mount is a reliable torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening during installation. I recommend Wheeler’s FAT Wrench.

Conclusion on Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch is a solid performer that offers exceptional value for the money. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive mounts, it delivers on its core promise of providing a stable and reliable platform for your optic.

The price is absolutely justified, especially considering its durable construction and effective cantilever design. It addresses a common issue with AR-platform rifles, making it easier to achieve optimal eye relief and improve overall shooting accuracy.

I would definitely recommend the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 1 Inch to anyone looking for a budget-friendly cantilever mount that doesn’t compromise on performance. If you’re looking to upgrade your AR-15, give this mount a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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