First Thoughts on the Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles
Optics mounting is a critical aspect of rifle setup. A quality mount ensures your scope is securely attached, properly aligned, and provides the necessary eye relief for comfortable and accurate shooting. The Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles promises a robust and reliable solution for achieving optimal scope placement on your rifle.
I’d been experiencing inconsistent groupings with my AR-15 carbine, and after eliminating other potential issues, I suspected my scope mount might be the culprit. I needed a cantilever mount to achieve proper eye relief with my new scope on my flattop AR, and I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank but still held zero reliably. I was looking for a one-piece design for simplicity and enhanced stability.
Upon receiving the Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles, I was immediately impressed with its solid feel. The black anodized finish appeared even and durable. The mount felt substantial in hand, not flimsy like some budget options I’ve encountered.
I considered other options, including mounts from Primary Arms and UTG. While those mounts had good reviews, the Aim Sports mount’s advertised wide contact area and twin recoil lugs seemed promising for added stability, particularly on my AR-15. I also liked the simple, no-nonsense design.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked like a well-made mount, but the true test would be how it performed under recoil and held zero over time. I was eager to get it mounted and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles at my local outdoor shooting range. The temperature was around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze, providing ideal shooting conditions. I mounted it on my AR-15 carbine chambered in 5.56 NATO.
Mounting the scope was straightforward, although I did need to apply some Loctite to the screws for added security. The 1.5″ mount height provided perfect eye relief for me when using a standard cheek weld. Initial shots at 50 yards showed a tight grouping, indicating proper alignment and a secure hold.
After about 50 rounds, I checked the mount for any signs of loosening, but it remained firmly in place. There were no noticeable shifts in my point of impact. The Aim Sports mount performed admirably during this initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles has proven to be surprisingly reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds downrange with it, including some rapid-fire drills and bump firing (when allowed by local laws and at appropriate locations). The mount has held zero consistently.
I’ve taken it through some dusty conditions and even a light rain shower. The anodized finish has held up well, with no signs of corrosion or significant wear. Cleaning is simple: just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session.
Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper, two-piece mount, the Aim Sports mount is a significant improvement. The one-piece design provides much greater stability, and the cantilever design has allowed me to achieve perfect eye relief, resulting in improved accuracy and comfort. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a mount in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles
Specifications
- Type: 1-Piece Base & Ring Combo. This design offers enhanced stability compared to traditional two-piece mounts.
- MFG/Model: Cantilever. The cantilever design extends forward, allowing for proper eye relief on rifles with limited receiver space, like AR-15s.
- Style: Dual Bolt On. This refers to the mounting mechanism, utilizing two bolts to secure the mount to the rifle’s Picatinny rail. This distributes the clamping force and improves stability.
- Misc: 1″ Ring. It is designed to accommodate scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter, which is a very common size.
- Finish: Anodized. The black anodized finish provides a durable and corrosion-resistant layer to the aluminum, enhancing its longevity.
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This is a strong and lightweight aluminum alloy, offering a good balance between durability and weight.
- Mount Height: 1.5″. This height provides a medium scope height, suitable for many shooters when used on an AR-15 platform providing adequate clearance for the front sight.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the mount’s performance and suitability for different applications. The one-piece cantilever design improves stability and eye relief, while the aluminum construction keeps the weight down. The anodized finish enhances durability, and the 1″ rings ensure compatibility with a wide range of scopes.
Performance & Functionality
The Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles performs its primary job of securely mounting a scope very well. The wide contact area and twin recoil lugs contribute to a stable and repeatable zero. The 1.5″ mount height is ideal for AR-15 platforms, providing comfortable eye relief and a clear sight picture.
The main strength is its ability to maintain zero under moderate recoil. The dual bolt-on design provides a secure attachment to the Picatinny rail, minimizing movement. One area for potential improvement might be the torque specifications for the mounting screws; these are not explicitly provided.
It definitely meets expectations for a budget-friendly cantilever scope mount. While it may not be as feature-rich as some higher-end options, it provides a reliable and functional solution for most shooters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Aim Sports mount features a simple and functional design. The black anodized finish provides a clean and professional look. The weight is reasonable, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.
It is easy to install and use. The included instructions are clear and concise, and the mounting process is straightforward. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061-T6 aluminum construction and anodized finish suggest a good level of durability. With proper care, this mount should last for many years of use.
Maintenance is simple. Wiping it down with a clean cloth after each use is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Periodic inspection of the screws to ensure they are properly tightened is also recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles does not come with any accessories. It’s a straightforward mount designed for use with scopes that have a 1″ tube diameter.
It is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail system. This allows for a wide range of customization options, including different scopes, backup iron sights, and other accessories. Ensure any accessories you are adding are within the weight rating of the mount, which Aim Sports does not specify.
Pros and Cons of Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles
Pros
- Affordable Price: This mount offers excellent value for the money, making it a great option for budget-conscious shooters.
- One-Piece Cantilever Design: Provides enhanced stability and optimal eye relief, especially on AR-15 platforms.
- Durable Construction: Made from 6061-T6 aluminum with a black anodized finish, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward mounting process with clear instructions.
- Maintains Zero: Holds zero reliably under moderate recoil, providing consistent accuracy.
Cons
- Lack of Torque Specifications: The absence of specified torque values for the mounting screws could lead to over- or under-tightening, potentially affecting performance.
- Limited Features: This mount lacks advanced features found on higher-end options, such as integrated levels or quick-detach mechanisms.
Who Should Buy Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles?
The Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles is perfect for:
- Budget-conscious shooters looking for a reliable and functional scope mount.
- AR-15 owners needing a cantilever mount to achieve proper eye relief.
- Casual range shooters and recreational hunters using standard 1″ tube scopes.
Who should skip this product?
- Competitive shooters or professionals requiring the highest level of precision and features.
- Individuals who need a quick-detach mount for rapid scope changes.
- Those shooting high-powered calibers with significant recoil where a more robust (and expensive) option would be more appropriate.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the mounting screws.
- Loctite threadlocker to prevent screws from loosening under recoil.
Conclusion on Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles
The Aim Sports Cantilever Scope Mount Black Anodized 1-Piece Base w/1″ Tube Diameter & 1.50″ Mount Height for Rifles offers a surprisingly good value proposition for the price. It provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting your scope, especially on AR-15 rifles. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive mounts, it performs its core function admirably.
The price is definitely justified. You are getting a solid, one-piece cantilever mount that holds zero and is built to last.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly scope mounting solution for their AR-15 or similar rifle. It’s a great option for casual shooters, recreational hunters, and anyone who wants a reliable mount without breaking the bank. Don’t over tighten the screws and you should be good to go!