Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm Review

First Thoughts on the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm presents itself as a no-nonsense, budget-friendly option for mounting larger diameter optics on AR-platform rifles. I’ve seen a surge in shooters adopting 34mm scopes for their improved light transmission and wider field of view, but often the mounts are disproportionately expensive. This mount from Athlon promises a solution, and I was keen to see if it could deliver performance without breaking the bank.

My need for this particular mount stemmed from a recent scope upgrade on my precision AR-15. I’d stepped up to a 34mm optic but was struggling to find a mount that offered both the necessary height and a reasonable price point. Most cantilever mounts I considered were significantly pricier, pushing me to explore the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm as a viable alternative.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the mount’s solid feel. The black anodized finish appeared uniform and durable, and the overall weight suggested a robust construction. It didn’t feel cheap or flimsy, which was a pleasant surprise considering the price. The design is straightforward: a one-piece cantilever designed to provide the correct eye relief and scope height for AR-platform rifles.

Compared to some of the more expensive, feature-rich mounts from brands like American Defense or LaRue Tactical, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm is decidedly more basic. It lacks quick-detach levers or integrated levels. However, for a shooter prioritizing functionality and value over bells and whistles, it seemed like a strong contender. I chose it over other budget options because of Athlon’s reputation for producing quality optics; I hoped their mount would reflect that same commitment.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The mount seemed well-made for the price. I was eager to test its ability to maintain zero and withstand recoil.

Real-World Testing: Putting Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm at my local shooting range, mounted on my AR-15 chambered in .223 Wylde. The weather was mild and sunny. I zeroed my rifle at 100 yards and then shot several groups, focusing on the mount’s ability to maintain zero.

Installation was straightforward. The mount easily attached to my Picatinny rail and the scope nestled snugly within the 34mm rings. After tightening the screws to the recommended torque (using a torque wrench, of course), the scope felt secure. During my initial testing session, I fired approximately 100 rounds. The mount held zero admirably. There was no noticeable shift in point of impact.

I did notice that the scope rings seemed to require a bit more force to tighten than some of the higher-end mounts I’ve used. While this wasn’t a major issue, it’s something to be aware of to avoid over-tightening and potentially damaging the scope.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a weekend hunting trip, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm has proven to be surprisingly reliable. The black anodized finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear around the edges. I’ve fired over 500 rounds with the mount installed. It continues to maintain zero without any issues.

I’ve also used the mount in slightly harsher conditions, including a dusty range environment. The mount performed flawlessly, with no loosening or shifting. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any residue.

Compared to a previous, similarly priced mount I used, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm has significantly outperformed it in terms of zero retention and overall durability. While it may not offer the same level of refinement as premium mounts, it delivers excellent value for the price. This mount outperforms my expectations considering the cost.

Breaking Down the Features of Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm

Specifications

• Product Name: Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm
• Ring Diameter: 34 mm. This is specifically designed for scopes with a 34mm main tube.
• Material: Aluminum. This keeps the mount relatively lightweight while maintaining strength.
• Mount Type: Cantilever. This provides proper eye relief on AR-platform rifles.
• Finish: Black Anodized. This provides a durable and corrosion-resistant finish.
• Price: $59.99. This is a competitive price point for a 34mm cantilever mount.

These specifications are important because they dictate the mount’s compatibility and performance. The 34mm ring diameter ensures it will securely hold scopes with that tube size. The aluminum construction strikes a balance between weight and durability. A cantilever design is essential for achieving proper eye relief on AR-style rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm performs its primary function admirably: securely holding a 34mm scope and maintaining zero. It’s a no-frills mount that prioritizes functionality over advanced features.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and affordability. The design is easy to install and use, and the price makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. A potential weakness is the lack of quick-detach capability, which may be a deal-breaker for some users. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly cantilever mount.

Design & Ergonomics

The mount’s design is functional and straightforward. It’s a one-piece cantilever with a black anodized finish. The build quality is solid, with no noticeable flaws or imperfections. It’s relatively lightweight, which is a plus for those concerned about adding excess weight to their rifle.

The mount is user-friendly, with no complicated adjustments or mechanisms. The scope rings are easy to tighten, and the overall design is intuitive. There’s no learning curve; simply attach it to the Picatinny rail, mount the scope, and tighten the screws.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm appears to be quite durable. The aluminum construction and black anodized finish have held up well to regular use.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a cloth is sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly. The construction seems rugged enough to last for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm does not come with any accessories. It’s a standalone mount designed to be used with any standard Picatinny rail and 34mm scope.

There are no specific customization options available for this particular mount. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of 34mm scopes from various brands. You can easily swap out scopes as needed.

Pros and Cons of Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm

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Who Should Buy Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm?

This mount is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a reliable 34mm cantilever mount for their AR-15 or similar platform. It’s a great option for recreational shooters, hunters, and those building their first AR-15. It’s also ideal for those who prioritize functionality and value over advanced features.

Who should skip this product? Those who require quick-detach capability or prefer mounts with integrated levels or other advanced features might find this mount too basic. Competitive shooters or those who frequently swap scopes might want to invest in a higher-end mount with quick-detach levers.

A must-have accessory would be a quality torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the scope rings and mount screws.

Conclusion on Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm

The Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm is a solid, budget-friendly option for mounting larger diameter scopes on AR-platform rifles. It’s not the flashiest or most feature-rich mount on the market, but it delivers reliable performance at an attractive price.

The value proposition is excellent. For $59.99, you get a durable, functional mount that holds zero and is easy to install. The price is absolutely justified.

I would personally recommend this mount to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable 34mm cantilever mount. If you’re on a budget but still need a quality mount, the Athlon Armor Cantilever Scope Mount 34 mm is an excellent choice. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference!

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